Driven: Audi Q5 Sportback

Kelly weighs in on one of Audi’s most important SUVs.

The Q5 has been around for well over a decade and in order to remain one of the favourite premium SUVs, Audi refreshed its highly successful Q5 in 2021. It’s longer than the previous iteration by 19mm, has an updated front grille and boasts a few technology updates, too. The Sportback version is new to the range and can be easily spotted thanks to its tapered roofline.

What’s under the bonnet? 

There are both petrol and diesel models in the Q5 lineup. The Q5 40 TDI Quattro 2,0-litre turbodiesel engine has 140kW and 400Nm. There is a turbocharged 3,0-litre V6 petrol unit that kicks out 260kW and 500Nm, while the 2,0-litre petrol unit produces 183kW and 370Nm of torque. Those wanting to move towards a more hybrid way of life will be happy to know that the latter petrol uni comes with a mild-hybrid (MHEV) system that allows the Q5 to operate without the use of the engine below speeds of 22km/h.

What is it like to live with? 

I’ve reached a point in my life where an Audi is an Audi is an Audi. It’s always going to be a well-styled vehicle that I enjoy driving. I didn’t take it much further than the shops, the school run and to the office and back, so in those scenarios, the Q5 sportback was pleasant and easy to live with. It’s easy to drive and performs well in traffic and on the open road.

I didn’t experience it for myself, but I do love the tech that comes in this Audi and I assume with most Audis. The myAudi app, for example, connects the vehicle with the owner’s phone. And through this, you get remote access to key security features. As someone who is moving more and more towards living a more connected life through apps and digital devices, this definitely appeals to me.

Anything else worth noting? 

There are a number of driver-assist packages available to make life easier. There is adaptive cruise control, active lane assist and two systems that make city driving and parking easier. According to Audi, “the City Assistance package is an attractive combination of assistance systems including lane change warning, exit warning, cross-traffic assist at the rear and a rearview camera. An upgrade to this system is also available with the City Assistance plus package which includes the park assist feature and a 360-degree camera to enable quick and comfortable parking.”

I’m not going to go into too much detail when it comes to safety and other nice-to-haves because this is a premium SUV. They have a plethora of standard features that you would expect in this category plus a host of optional extras that you can add.

Should you get one? 

If you are in the market for a premium SUV, the Q5 is definitely worth considering. Competitors include the BMW X3 and the Jaguar F Pace. The addition of the Sportback certainly shakes things up a bit. It’s worth a look!