Audi E5 Sportback

The Audi E5 Sportback is a China-exclusive all-electric model developed under a new cooperation framework between Audi and SAIC. It represents a distinct interpretation of Audi’s electric future for the Chinese market, combining Audi DNA with design, digital features, and user experiences specifically tailored to local preferences.

The Audi E5 Sportback was officially unveiled in 2024 and is one of the first production-ready vehicles created under Audi’s new China-focused electric brand strategy. In line with this strategy, the traditional four rings are replaced by illuminated Audi lettering, underlining the model’s unique positioning.

Positioned as a premium midsize electric fastback, the E5 Sportback targets tech-savvy urban customers who prioritize connectivity, digital ecosystems, and modern design alongside comfort and performance.

First customer deliveries in China are expected during 2025, depending on final homologation and regional rollout.

Audi E5 Sportback Variants

The Audi E5 Sportback is offered in four clearly defined trim levels, with a focus on power output, drivetrain, and battery size, rather than traditional European option-heavy configurations.

Available variants include:

• Audi E5 Sportback Pioneer
  Rear-wheel drive, 220 kW, 83 kWh battery

• Audi E5 Sportback Pioneer Plus
  Rear-wheel drive, 300 kW, 100 kWh battery

• Audi E5 Sportback Pioneer quattro
  Dual-motor quattro all-wheel drive, 425 kW, 100 kWh battery

• Audi E5 Sportback quattro
  Dual-motor quattro all-wheel drive, up to 579 kW, 100 kWh battery

Certified CLTC driving range varies from 623 km up to 773 km, depending on configuration.

As is typical for the Chinese EV market, equipment levels are highly standardized, with a high level of comfort, safety, and technology features included as standard across the lineup.

Exterior and design

The Audi E5 Sportback introduces a distinct design language compared to Audi’s European electric models. While proportions and surface treatment remain clearly Audi, the styling is more expressive and digitally inspired, reflecting local market preferences.

Key exterior highlights include:

• A fully closed front fascia with illuminated elements
• Prominent Audi lettering replacing the four rings
• Slim LED headlights with advanced lighting signatures
• A flowing Sportback roofline emphasizing aerodynamics
• Muscular rear shoulders and a wide stance

At the rear, a full-width light strip with animated elements reinforces the car’s high-tech character. Aerodynamic efficiency plays a central role in the overall design, contributing to improved range and reduced wind noise.

The E5 Sportback is offered with multiple wheel designs and a curated selection of exterior colors developed specifically for the Chinese market.

Interior

The interior of the Audi E5 Sportback is conceived as a digital-first living space, with a strong focus on screens, connectivity, and personalization.

A clean, horizontal dashboard layout is combined with high-quality materials and extensive ambient lighting. The design reflects Audi’s shift toward software-defined vehicles, particularly important in the Chinese market.

Interior highlights include:

• A large panoramic digital display spanning driver and center areas
• High-resolution digital instruments with customizable views
• Premium seating materials with strong emphasis on rear-seat comfort
• Multi-color ambient lighting themes
• Minimal physical controls, relying on touch and voice interaction

Seat ventilation is standard across the range, while seat massage availability depends on trim level. A head-up display and advanced voice control are standard equipment.

Rear-seat space is generous, reflecting Chinese customer preferences, while the flat floor enhances overall passenger comfort.

Drivetrain

The Audi E5 Sportback is built on a dedicated electric platform co-developed with SAIC, optimized for performance, efficiency, and fast charging.

Two battery sizes are available:

• 83 kWh (gross) battery for rear-wheel-drive Pioneer models
• 100 kWh (gross) battery for higher-output and quattro variants

Power output ranges from 220 kW up to 579 kW, with rear-wheel drive and dual-motor quattro all-wheel drive configurations.

The E5 Sportback supports ultra-fast DC charging up to 420 kW, enabling very short charging stops on compatible high-power chargers.

Adaptive air suspension is standard across all variants, delivering a balance between ride comfort and dynamic handling. The setup is tuned for smooth urban driving while maintaining stability at higher speeds.

Technology

Technology is a central pillar of the Audi E5 Sportback, with strong emphasis on digital ecosystems and local integration.

The infotainment system is developed specifically for China and integrates deeply with local services and apps. Key features include:

• Over-the-air software updates
• Local navigation, media, and payment services
• Advanced Mandarin voice control
• Apple CarPlay support (Android Auto not available)

The digital lighting system serves both functional and communicative roles, using dynamic light signatures to improve visibility and interaction with other road users.

Driver assistance systems include:

• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane centering assistance
• Traffic jam assist
• Automated parking functions

These systems are optimized for dense urban traffic conditions typical of major Chinese cities.

Trim level and equipment options

The Audi E5 Sportback follows a simplified configuration strategy with a high level of standard equipment across all trims.

Standard and available features include:

• Panoramic digital display
• Head-up display
• Adaptive air suspension
• Comprehensive driver assistance systems
• Premium interior materials
• Seat ventilation and advanced climate control
• Extensive connectivity and digital services

This approach ensures that even the entry-level Pioneer trim delivers a fully premium experience without complex option lists.

Media

Official driving impressions, videos, and long-term reviews will be added once customer deliveries begin and independent test drives become available.

The Audi E5 Sportback represents a clear statement of intent for Audi’s China-specific electric future, blending premium design, high performance, ultra-fast charging, and locally optimized digital technology.