2021 Audi Q5 Sportback Review

The 2021 Audi Q5 Sportback is a Q5 with an aggressively tapered roof. Pretty simple, right? Available with the same features, same performance and similar looks, the Q5 Sportback is a new addition to the Audi lineup with style at the top of its list of priorities. It's a Q5 with a sleeker profile, designed to attract more eyes to this versatile luxury SUV.

The Q5 Sportback is the latest in a newer class of SUVs that eschew utilitarian conventions in favor of an eye-catching aesthetic. As is the case with the Q5 Sportback, this is done by chopping the roof behind the front passengers, and in the process sacrificing some rear headroom, cargo space and practicality. For some, the trade-off is worth the boost in curb appeal.

Audi's build quality has been a strength in recent years, and we expect that won't change with the new Q5 Sportback. An attractive interior design, lined with high-end materials, means this compact crossover will feel classy and upscale.

The standard Q5 exhibits a quiet and comfortable ride, and we expect the same from the Q5 Sportback. The Q5 Sportback gets a sportier (see: stiffer) suspension than the standard Q5, but we don't expect a drastic change in ride quality. From there, the SQ5 Sportback will offer an adaptive suspension as standard and an optional air suspension that can adjust the ride height by up to 1.8 inches depending on the drive mode you've selected. Audi hasn't released official numbers on cargo capacity, but we expect a small loss in rear headroom along with a decrease in rear storage space.