2022 Audi Q5 Sportback review

Audi’s most popular SUV is trimmed down in the 2022 Audi Q5 Sportback.

BMW rewrote the SUV playbook back in 2008 when it launched the X6 – a premium SUV based on its popular X5 but with bold coupé-inspired styling. Mercedes followed suit with the GLC in 2016 and, given the fierce competition between the three German brands, it’s surprising Audi has taken this long to get in on the act for its Q5 SUV.

How much does the 2022 Audi Q5 Sportback cost?

Trailing in the footsteps of the recently revised Q5 range, the 2022 Audi Q5 Sportback is available in three guises: 40 TDI, 45 TFSI and SQ5. Prices start at $77,700 for the 40 TDI, representing a premium of almost $8000 over the regular Q5 wagon.

The 45 TFSI climbs to $86,300 and the hero SQ5 is $110,900. Audi’s S-line styling package is standard and 20-inch alloys feature on the 40 TDI and 45 TFSI.

2022 Audi Q5 Sportback styling

The Audi 2022 Q5 Sportback is based on the regular Q5 wagon and it’s hard to discern any differences from the front. The grille and side air intakes are lifted from the S-Line styling package and the repositioned LED headlamps are the only giveaways.

From side-on, the Sportback character starts to appear as the bodywork tapers from the B-pillar towards the tailgate, removing a few millimetres of head room for second-row passengers and around 40 litres of boot space. The resulting silhouette is pleasing and a rear spoiler integrated into the tailgate enhances the sporty look.

2022 Audi Q5 Sportback power and torque

Engine options remain familiar for the 2022 Audi Q5 Sportback. The 2.0-litre 40 TDI produces 150kW and 400Nm and features 12-volt mild hybrid technology that delivers a claimed fuel consumption of just 5.4L/100km. Audi’s sophisticated emission systems reduce nitrogen exhaust by more than 90 per cent, making it one of the cleanest diesels in the market.

The 45 TFSI petrol model, also equipped with mild hybrid technology, produces 180kW and 370Nm and has a clear acceleration advantage over the diesel, reaching 100km/h in 6.3 seconds (1.3 seconds faster). Both engines use Audi’s seven-speed Tiptronic (DSG) transmission.

Powering the SQ5 Sportback is Audi’s revised 3.0-litre TDI engine developing 250kW and 700Nm, with maximum torque available at a low 1750rpm. Fuel consumption is 7.0L/100km and the 0-100km/h sprint is accomplished in just 5.1 seconds.

An electric compressor assists the turbocharger to reduce lag and a new intercooler mounted in the V of the engine delivers quicker boost pressure. The 48-volt mild hybrid system allows the engine to switch off and the SQ5 can coast on its battery for up to 40 seconds. The diesel is matched to a conventional eight-speed auto.

2022 Audi Q5 Sportback interior tech

The interior of the 2022 Audi Q5 Sportback, much like the regular Q5’s, seems less ‘crafted’ than those of its rivals – an impression not helped by harder plastics on some surfaces and the liberal use of dark colours. Audi retired the excellent rotary dial controller from the previous generation, replacing it with a new haptic touchscreen.

Some icons are a stretch from the driver’s seat, although Audi’s talk function lessens the need to use the screen and there’s not a lot of adjusting required once you set your preferences.

How does the 2022 Audi Q5 Sportback drive?

Unsurprisingly, the 2022 Audi Q5 Sportback’s driving traits mirror the highly credentialled Q5’s, albeit each with its own subtle character. The Sportback’s basic suspension setup is spot-on, feeling taut with excellent bump absorption, while the steering is reassuring and sharp. As good as the 40 TDI is, the 45 TFSI is our pick of the regular range – it has almost as much usable engine torque as the diesel and its free-revving nature adds an extra edge to the sportier packaging.

Our test 45 TFSI was optioned with adaptive air suspension and 21-inch alloys, further complementing the sporty feel, although coupled with the Technik package ($5000) there’s little change left after forking out $100,000.

2022 Audi Q5 Sportback price and specs

• Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel
• Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic
• Power: 150kW
• Torque: 400Nm
• Fuel consumption: 5.4L/100km (claimed)
• ANCAP: five stars  
• Price: From $77,700 (plus ORC)