The 2025 Audi SQ5 Sportback [UK]: A Refined Performer with Coupe Flair

The Audi SQ5 Sportback in its 2025 iteration arrives in the UK market as a compelling proposition for those seeking a blend of performance, practicality, and a distinctive visual statement. Building on the established success of the Q5 and SQ5 lineage, the Sportback variant adds a rakish, coupe-like roofline, aiming to inject more dynamism into the premium SUV segment. But does this stylistic flourish come at the expense of its core strengths, and how does it stack up in a fiercely competitive landscape? This review delves into the specifications, pricing, and overall driving experience of the 2025 Audi SQ5 Sportback for the UK consumer.

Design: A Statement of Intent

Audi has clearly focused on making the SQ5 Sportback stand out. While sharing the robust underpinnings of the standard Q5 SUV, the Sportback’s defining feature is its sloping roofline, which cascades elegantly towards the rear, terminating in a more aggressive tailgate. This design choice undeniably enhances its visual appeal, giving it a sleeker, more athletic profile compared to its squarer sibling.

For 2025, the SQ5 Sportback retains its sporty S-line specific enhancements. Expect larger front air intakes, a more assertive rear diffuser, and distinctive badging. Critically, Audi has listened to feedback, and the exhaust pipes are now real rather than decorative, a welcome detail for enthusiasts. The standard 21-inch wheels on the Edition 1 trim further contribute to its imposing stance. While some might argue the SUV version remains the more aesthetically balanced, the Sportback’s design certainly commands attention and aligns with the growing trend for coupe-SUVs.

Interior: A Sanctuary of Technology and Comfort

Step inside the 2025 SQ5 Sportback, and you're greeted by Audi's familiar blend of high-quality materials and cutting-edge technology. The cabin is largely shared with the regular Q5, but the SQ5 benefits from "S" specific accents, including heavily bolstered sports seats often trimmed in premium Nappa leather and Dinamica synthetic suede with contrasting stitching. These seats are a highlight, offering exceptional comfort and support, ideal for long journeys or spirited driving.

The digital real estate within the SQ5 Sportback is impressive. A curved "Digital Stage" dominates the dashboard, housing an 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit for instruments and a 14.5-inch MMI touch display for infotainment. Both utilize OLED technology, ensuring vibrant graphics and deep blacks. While the move towards fewer physical buttons might divide opinion, Audi has maintained crucial controls for functions like lane-keeping assist on the stalk, a sensible decision. An optional augmented head-up display and a somewhat debatable 10.9-inch passenger screen are also available. Practicality is generally strong, though the Sportback’s sloping roofline does impact boot space slightly compared to the standard Q5 SUV, offering 470 litres (down from 520 litres in the regular Q5). However, it's still a respectable volume, and the rear seats can slide by 10cm to prioritize either legroom or cargo.

Performance: The Petrol Powerhouse Returns

For 2025, the Audi SQ5 in the UK shifts from a diesel-focused powertrain to a potent petrol V6. Under the bonnet lies a 3.0-litre TFSI twin-turbo V6 engine, producing 367 PS (362 bhp) and a robust 550 Nm (406 lb ft) of torque. This is paired with a slick seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic gearbox and Audi's renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system.

The performance figures are impressive for a vehicle of this size: 0-62 mph is dispatched in a brisk 4.5 seconds, with a limited top speed of 155 mph. Crucially, the engine is augmented by Audi's "MHEV Plus" 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This isn't just for efficiency; it provides a significant boost, contributing up to an additional 24 PS and 230 Nm of torque. This system also allows for brief, engine-off pure electric driving at low speeds, enhancing refinement in urban environments. The transition between electric and petrol power is largely seamless.

On the road, the SQ5 Sportback delivers a sophisticated and engaging driving experience. The V6 engine provides plentiful mid-range grunt, meaning you don't always need to chase the redline to make swift progress. The standard adaptive air suspension is a key highlight, offering an impressive breadth of ability. It masterfully blends twisty-road poise with excellent comfort, absorbing bumps and road imperfections with composure, even on the large 21-inch wheels. Switching into Dynamic mode sharpens the throttle response, firms up the suspension, and allows the V6 to emit a more vocal, tuneful exhaust note. While it’s not a hardcore sports car like an RS model, it's undeniably fast and capable, inspiring confidence through corners thanks to the quattro system's grip and clever torque vectoring, further aided by the electric motor's ability to subtly over-speed the rear axle for enhanced agility.

Pricing and Trims (UK Market 2025)

As a flagship model, the 2025 Audi SQ5 Sportback is positioned at the upper end of the Q5 Sportback range. In the UK, pricing for the SQ5 Sportback Edition 1 (effectively the sole, highly equipped trim) starts from around £76,930 to £78,775 OTR. This reflects its comprehensive standard specification, which includes features like the panoramic sunroof, head-up display, and a Bang & Olufsen audio system.

While this is a significant investment, it’s competitive within its segment, often offering more standard equipment than similarly priced rivals from BMW (X4 M40i) and Mercedes-AMG (GLC 43 Coupe). Used examples from early 2025 are already appearing in the market with slightly lower prices, typically in the high £60,000s or low £70,000s depending on mileage and individual specifications.

Verdict: A Compelling Blend

The 2025 Audi SQ5 Sportback for the UK market is a deeply impressive vehicle. It successfully merges the practicality and elevated driving position of an SUV with the more dynamic aesthetics of a coupe. The new petrol V6 engine, coupled with the sophisticated MHEV system and standard adaptive air suspension, delivers a potent yet refined driving experience. It's fast, comfortable, and packed with Audi's latest technology.

While some might bemoan the slightly reduced boot space or the continued reliance on touchscreens, the overall package is highly desirable. For those seeking a premium performance SUV that makes a statement without sacrificing everyday usability, the 2025 Audi SQ5 Sportback stands as a compelling choice in the UK landscape. It's a testament to Audi's ability to evolve its popular models, delivering a car that is both aspirational and eminently capable.