My FH5 Log: UNSCRIPTED

Do you remember the episode from The Grand Tour where the third-generation Audi TT RS and the Ariel Nomad got compared by Clarkson and Hammond while May's busy making his own fire engine? That's unscripted television to you and me but hey, the TT RS ended up being the better one compared to the Nomad, probably because of the "unscripted" finish line's cheering on Clarkson.

Bringing the "unscripted" rivalry to Forza Horizon 5, the Ariel Nomad and the third-generation Audi TT RS are here to settle the score once again just like what they did in Croatia, only without the lady rooting for the gorilla behind the Audi.

But first, let's get to know about these "unscripted" rivals...

Built by the makers of the mind-blowing Atom, the Nomad is basically the Atom's off-road cousin made to tackle the roughest roads on Planet Earth. Like the normal Atom, the Nomad's equipped with the same Honda 2.4L i-VTEC engine producing 235BHP of power and 300Nm of torque while mated to a 6-speed close ratio gearbox. Because it weighs 670kg, its power-to-weight ratio is 6.25lb/hp. It will do 0-60mph in 3.4 seconds and onwards to 125mph. Aside from that, the Nomad comes with a FOX off-road long-travel coilover suspension, hydraulic handbrake, four-piston calipers, adjustable dampers with remote reservoirs, double unequal-length fabricated wishbones, heavy-duty uprights, quick-ratio ally Rack & Pinion, and others.

The TT RS is the flagship variant of the third-generation Audi TT that is powered by the upgraded version of the 2.5L five-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces 60PS more than the previous TT RS, making it 400PS of power output and 480Nm of torque. Mated to a 7-speed DCT, the TT RS is capable of hitting the 0-100kph time of 3.7 seconds and a top speed of up to 280kph thanks to its optional extra.

With Bob the Builder and the air hostess having their say, it's time to bring these two on a rally stage...above the caldera, just to find out if they're just like their stint at The Grand Tour a few years ago, only this time without a pretty lady to root for the Audi. This is a proper finish line with a proper audience watching the two unscripted rivals do their thing.

Let's Go!

With a case of deja vu done, here are the results, and it's a close one, I believe...

Nomad - 0m54.788s 

TT RS (8S) - 0m54.521s

Now that's a close result but hey, the Audi won the unscripted duel against the Ariel, just.

From the rugged rear-wheel-drive Nomad to the all-wheel-drive turbocharged TT RS, these unscripted rivals were proven to be great to drive on and off the road but in the end, it's the Audi the superior one because...it's an Audi. No explanations are needed. I guess Clarkson's right after all about the TT RS but...something tells me about this Audi. I wonder what it could be?

I'll figure it out soon because there's something about this TT...

My FH5 Log: A tribute to the RS6 Avant

From the time you obtained it as a DLC car in Forza Horizon 2 to the moment you've got it as a prize car in the Forza Horizon 5's High Performance Dry Season Playlist, the Audi RS6 Avant is proven to be the ultimate station wagon only the privileged can indulge on.

With the C7 and the C8 versions present in Forza Horizon 5, it's time to find out how much the RS6 Avant has changed as the legend unparalleled in its unique combination of high-performance and wagon practicality, melding its racing pedigree with utility as Audi claims.

Beginning with the C7 RS6 Avant, or should I say the facelifted C7 RS6 Avant, it comes with the 4.0L V8 TFSi engine which develops 560PS of power and 700Nm of torque and it's connected to an 8-speed tiptronic transmission. 0-100kph takes about 3.9 seconds and it will go on up to 305kph. Although this car is made for the trip to the grocery, the RS6 Avant is an all-rounder thanks to its legendary quattro permanent all-wheel drive system.

Now, the C8 RS6 Avant. For the first time ever, it's available Stateside with a starting price of 121,900 US Dollars plus additional costs. This model is powered by a powerful 4.0L V8 TFSi engine with a 48-volt electrical system and cylinder-on-demand system for added efficiency on the go. This engine produces 600PS of power and 800Nm of torque and when mated to an 8-speed Tiptronic gearbox, it goes from 0-100kph in over three and a half seconds and with the dynamic package plus, up to 305kph of top speed. Aside from that, it comes with a number of race-inspired suspension setups, including the available dynamic all-wheel steering and RS sports suspension plus Dynamic Ride Control. Combined with the legendary quattro all-wheel-drive system, the result is a more enjoyable driving experience everywhere all at once.

After having my huge impressions of both generations of the RS6 Avant, it's time to pit these two on a quick climb to the top of the caldera, just to find out how much the RS6 Avant has evolved. Without further ado, let's roll the tape.

With their deed done, here are the results;

RS6 Avant C7: 3m24.671s

RS6 Avant C8: 3m20.317s

It took nearly four seconds to have the RS6 Avant evolve from the C7 to the C8. Let's be honest, it may not be the best RS6 Avant ever made but it's certainly the super wagon the world knows at its peak. Hey, this isn't even its final form, you know.

I admit that the C8-spec Audi RS6 Avant isn't even in its final form but in the age of the new normal, it will be dearly missed by the time Audi's electrification strategy shifts into maximum overdrive. If so, the RS6 Avant will go down in history as the forbidden fruit only the privileged can indulge in thanks to its unique combination of high performance and wagon practicality.

The more you know. Good day to you, Sir/Ma'am, and enjoy your new ride.

My FH5 Log: Kingmakers

With the countdown to the upcoming FH5 Rally Adventure expansion in full swing, the Horizon Wilds Takeover series update features the dirtiest cars on the planet as well as Ken Block-themed challenges in honor of the late HHIC. The perfect time for a warm-up before the dirtiest rally gauntlet begins.

The Wet Season Playlist welcomes back two rally monsters that will come in handy when the Rally Adventure hits at the end of March. These are the Ford Focus RX from GYMKHANA 9 and the mythical #2 Audi Sport Quattro S1.

The 2016 Ford Focus RS RX #43 is specially modified for Ken Block's ninth Gymkhana outing; RAW INDUSTRIAL PLAYGROUND. With its turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder engine producing nearly twice the power as the normal 2.3L-powered road-going model, the 4WD rally monster is capable of burning all four wheels while unleashing hell in the industrial park. Apart from that, it features a Sadev 6-speed sequential gearbox, a special exterior design that complies with FIA World Rallycross regulations, Cosworth engine management and data logging, and Reiger suspension, among others.

As the improved version of the Audi Sport Quattro rally car, the S1 complies with Group B regulations, and with that, they've built 20 units for homologation purposes. Powering the Quattro S1 is a 2.1L inline-5 engine that produces 470hp of power, making it the most powerful rally car ever built, while mated to a then-experimental version of the dual-clutch gearbox, making it the forebearer of the double-clutch gearbox. Notable drivers include Hannu Mikkola, Walter Rohrl, Michele Mouton, Bobby Unser, and Stig Blomqvist, who won the 1984 WRC title. Apart from the WRC, the car saw success in the Pikes Peak Hill Climb from 1985, and 1987 to 1989.

Let's give these rally monsters a quick exercise before getting them ready for the upcoming Rally Adventure very soon. The ideal time to flex their muscles before getting ready for the most grueling rally gauntlets. Roll up the tape.

Although messy, they've flexed enough to take on the most grueling rally gauntlets coming very soon. Looks like these two are ready for the Rally Adventure.

Enjoy your new rides!

Audi Q8 e-tron

Back in 2019, the first-ever Audi e-tron crossover signaled a new start for Audi's electrification mission and it sets the template for Audi's electrified models. Despite its success, the e-tron didn't survive long enough and it was therefore removed from the lineup. Thankfully, it was reborn with a new name, which sounds confusing to some.

2024 Audi Q8 e-tron Sportback

2024 Audi Q8 e-tron

Welcome to the Audi Q8 e-tron and no, this new model has nothing in common with the ICE-powered Audi Q8 coupe utility vehicle because, despite the naming, it's basically a minor change version of the used-to-be-called Audi e-tron electric crossover.

Prices start at 74,400 Euros plus additional costs, a drastic price bump compared to the old e-tron crossover, so with the price hike, what do you get from this so-called improved version of the e-tron crossover, which is available in normal and Sportback models?

Beginning with the styling, the Q8 e-tron looks similar to the old e-tron crossover but with refreshed looks and aerodynamics to make a statement. It's the same goes for the sporty SQ8 e-tron variants.

2024 Audi Q8 e-tron interior

2024 Audi Q8 e-tron interior

The interior feels pretty much the same as the old model but there are signs of added use of recycled materials involved in the making. On the driver's side, you still have familiar features such as the 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit, a 10.1-inch MMI touchscreen with smartphone connectivity and noticeable apps such as Apple Music and (oh no) Amazon Alexa, and an 8.6-inch secondary touchscreen that takes charge of the climate control features. 

Of course, the spacing is just like the old e-tron. It fits up to five people and it's got more room than its main rival, the Mercedes-Benz EQC, and for added fun, Audi teams up with holoride to deliver VR excitement inside. Sit in the back, put on your VR glasses, and enjoy the ride. This is a gimmick even kids might enjoy.

2024 Audi SQ8 e-tron Sportback

2024 Audi SQ8 e-tron

Checking out the electric propulsion system, the Q8 e-tron features a choice of either a 95kWh or a 114kWh battery pack with the latter producing 408PS of power, 664Nm of torque, a 0-100kph time of 5.6 seconds, 200kph of top speed, and 582km of driving range.

The SQ8 e-tron uses the same 114kWh battery pack as the normal one but it has improved performance, delivering 503PS of power, 973Nm of torque, a 0-100kph time of 4.5 seconds, 210kph of top speed, and up to 494km of driving range.

The dynamics were slightly revised compared to the old e-tron courtesy of its improved performance, air suspension, revised air springs, and updated steering ratio. Still, it possesses a mild driving feel but it feels a bit okay to get going from the beginning to the end of the day.

The SQ8 e-tron comes with an electric torque vectoring system that allows drivers to fully enjoy these crossovers to their fullest extent. Easier said than done.

The Q8 e-tron may be more of a facelifted e-tron crossover but it continues the electric crossover's success story even in this unstable world we live in. 

Why call it the Q8 e-tron even though it has nothing in common with the normal Q8 coupe crossover? It's complicated.

Photo: Audi AG

My FH5 Log: Progressive Values

Audi's tagline, Progress is an Attitude, truly showcased the German luxury car brand's progressive values when it comes to how much hard work they've implied. Of course, they may not be as cool as either a Mercedes-Benz or a BMW but when it comes to technology and behavior, Audi's a real standing ovation.

That's why Forza Horizon 5's Horizon Road Trip update showcased two progressively new Audis for us to try; the RS7 Sportback C8 and the first-ever Audi RS e-tron GT.

Beginning with the second-generation RS7 Sportback that I've obtained from the Storm Season Playlist, the ultimate version of the second-generation A7 is powered by a powerful 4.0L V8 TFSi engine with the 48-volt electrical system and cylinder on-demand system for added efficiency on the go. It produces 600PS of power and 800Nm of torque and when mated to an 8-speed Tiptronic gearbox, it goes from 0-100kph in over three and a half seconds and with the dynamic package plus, up to 305kph of top speed. It also comes with a number of race-inspired suspension setups, including the available dynamic all-wheel steering and RS sports suspension plus Dynamic Ride Control.

Lastly, obtained as an overall prize in the Horizon Road Trip, the Audi RS e-tron GT is the ultimate version of the first-ever Audi e-tron GT for those who demand more. With styling inspired from the concept car, the one Tony Stark drove in the Avengers Endgame movie, its electric powertrain produces 598PS of total power and 830Nm of total torque but when boost mode is engaged, it produces up to 646PS of power for a brief period of time, sprinting from 0-100kph in 3.3 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 250kph.

Now that we get to know these two progressively new Audis in detail, it's time to find out which one is the most progressive, and with that, it's a little sprint run at the streets of Guanajuato. As always, fastest time wins so, without further ado, let the progressive fight begin. Petrol vs. electric, this should be interesting.

After a quick sprint, here are the results;

RS7 C8 - 2:30.484

RS e-tron GT - 2:28.532

Call me crazy but it appears the electric-powered RS e-tron GT has chomped the RS7 Sportback by nearly two seconds. Guess Iron Man wasn't kidding about his...endgame.

Petrol or electric, celebrating the past or embracing the future, it's proof that "progress is an attitude" and Audi showcased the world what progress truly means. Now that's progressive, get it? Anyway, enjoy your new Audis, boys and girls. These two machines truly demand progress.

My FH5 Log: File B9

Almost a decade ago while playing the original Forza Horizon on my XBOX 360, I sampled the Audi RS4 Avant B8 and I got hooked by its moves as well as its naturally-aspirated V8 engine that sounds like the old BMW M3 Coupe. Life was nearly cool for this high-performance wagon back then.

Now, the B9-spec Audi RS4 Avant has arrived as a prize car obtained from the Series 8 Hot Season Playlist and looks like it's time to move on from the practical party pooper and into the all-out slugfest that is ready to slug through any ball game like a real baller.

So, what's it all about the Audi RS4 Avant B9?

Unlike its B8 predecessor, the Audi RS4 Avant B9 replaced the old model's V8 engine with the 2.9 TFSi V6 BiTurbo engine derived from the second-generation RS5. It produces 450PS of power and 600Nm of torque while mated to an 8-speed Tiptronic transmission. It does 0-100kph in 4.1 seconds and it has a governed top speed of 250kph but it can be bumped up to 280kph with an optional extra.

As expected, the RS4 Avant B9 feels mild and tangy while in the middle of a "twist and shout" session on the road, probably because it doesn't have the wonderful feature that today's BMW M5 had. What this means, is this wagon on mild steroids prefers to grip rather than letting all out in the handling department. I guess Audi is very serious about their high-performance machines; they want to behave like normal Audis but in a big and exciting kind of way, Long story short but you get the picture.

Having expressed my disappointment over the RS4 Avant B9's mild driving feel, I was going to call it quits...unless there's a way to appreciate this model. With that...

Using my stylist skills, this RS4 Avant was given a thumbs-up approach, or to put it in Nino's context; MARS! See what I did? MARS!

With the out-of-context "insert Martian joke here" approach done, my RS4 is ready for the slugfest it will never forget. Send in the tape!

Looks rough and dirty at the end but she's a great slugger, isn't she?

Well-sculpted proportions, mild driving feel, turbocharged V6 engine, quattro all-wheel-drive, the RS4 Avant B9 is a slugger that needs to be appreciated as much as its B8 predecessor. Sure, it doesn't have the raw charm of its predecessor and the competition alike but it sure loves a good ball game in the end. Although not a wise choice for the fun-loving Festival participants, the RS4 B9 is quite a rising star of the show.

Guess I'm going to take a few painkillers after this. As expected, the grip is so cringy. Huhehe...

Audi RS3 (Typ 8Y)

After a year of waiting since the arrival of the current Audi A3, the ultimate version known as the RS3 has arrived in sedan and Sportback form, and this means party time for speedo boys who have waited long enough to get their filthy hands on the latest version that promises to be as awesome as the previous RS3.

The RS3 (priced at 62,000 Euros plus additional costs) and the RS3 Sportback (priced at 60,000 Euros plus additional costs) are back in the Typ 8Y generation and the latest versions promise to be as enjoyable to drive as the previous model, something that speedo boys are looking forward to.

At first glance, the new versions are like the normal Audi A3 8Y, but with the RS3, this is what these A3 models looked like after last night in Ibiza. Such party animals they, and when you check through the design and its interior, it smells like one of the frat boys on steroids. Now that's manly, but just like the normal A3, speedo boys can get easily plagued by its minimalist interior layout because like the normal model, you don't get buttons and dials to adjust the touch screen sat nav's volume.  You get buttons only on the climate control. Period.

Anyway, with the beefed-up exterior design and a dark interior theme that smells manly for hot hatch standards, the new models' performance and dynamics are something to spark a conversation about. The new models retained the same 2.5L TFSi engine from the previous model. Sure, it produces the same 400PS power output as the original but they've managed to add 20Nm of torque to make it 500Nm, allowing it to rev as much as 7000rpm. Mated to an S Tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive, it can go from 0 to 100kph in 3.8 seconds and with an optional extra online, it can go up to 290kph, that's 10kph quicker than the previous model.

Aside from the improved performance, the new RS3's dynamics are getting more enjoyable than ever because underneath, the old model's rear axle differential has been replaced with a torque splitter that comes with a special feature that makes the RS3 drift like a rear-wheel-drive car. Not a Focus RS as such but it feels so addictive and enjoyable. Couple that with the RS sports suspension and the ceramic brake system, along with other improvements, the result is a mild but menacing ride that speedo boys will never forget. Once they drive it, it's prime time.

Is this the best RS3 Audi ever made? It's a 3-to-2 split decision but either way, the all-new RS3 range, in sedan and Sportback forms, loves to party through the roads and tracks like a real party animal. Although speedo boys are getting problems with the interior, the fun-to-drive character is still pretty much alive and kicking and looks like we are feeling the jealousy from within, wishing we want to experience one of these on our own terms. This is the RS3 that is too cool to be ignored for Gen Z.

Photo: Audi

Audi Q4 e-tron

After Audi called shots with their e-tron electric crossover lineup, the German luxury carmaker is amping up the electric crossover craze with the unveiling of their first-ever Q4 e-tron lineup. So, what's it all about the Q4? Let's investigate.

2022 Audi Q4 e-tron

2022 Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback

The Audi Q4 e-tron is offered in two different body styles; a normal and spacious version that starts at 41,900 Euros plus additional costs and the coupe-like Sportback variant that starts at 43,900 Euros. Whichever body style you went for, you will notice that the design looks almost similar to the concept version it draws inspiration from.

2022 Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback interior

2022 Audi Q4 e-tron interior

While admiring the exterior design's concept appeal, it's the same story for the interior as well. Although the interior design's almost similar to the concept car, it still boasts futuristic features some drivers will find it surprising and annoying at the same time, especially speedo boys behind the wheel. One such feature is the AR HUD which makes drivers feel like they're in a video game, almost.

On the passenger side, despite being smaller than the Q5-based Audi e-tron SUV, it's still a spacious crossover for up to five people, depending on which body style you're on. On the normal Q4, it has a boot space of 520 to 1,490 liters, while the Sportback variant, thanks to its sloping roofline, is slightly less spacious than the normal one. Either way, they're good enough to carry hunks of junks for all walks of life, be it business and leisure, for family use, or for personal use. Whatever floats your boat.

2022 Audi Q4 e-tron

2022 Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback

What about performance? The Q4's electric powertrain consists of a choice of two battery packs and three drive variants. The range-topping variant has a combined power output of 299PS of power, 460Nm of torque, and a range of 482km based on WLTP standards. It does 0-100kph in 6.2 seconds and has a top speed of 180kph, which is very Japanese for a luxury German electric crossover with such aerodynamics. As for charging times, the battery will be at 80% capacity in 38 minutes when plugged in a super-fast public charging station. At home, it takes less than seven hours to fully charge this crossover, an hour less than the equivalent of a typical human sleeping period.

That said, the Q4 is rear-wheel-drive by default because of the electric motor positioned in the rear end and when you take it for a spin, it has a mild driving feel no matter how sporty your driving style is. With the quattro all-wheel-drive system made specifically for electric vehicles like this, it's still mild and tangy to drive but it's capable and stable even when the roads are wet, freezing, dirty, and sandy.

Of course, being a technologically focused crossover built for the new normal, the Q4 e-tron comes with a plethora of driver-assist systems that covers numerous traffic situations like it's in charge, like it or not.

With the arrival of the Q4 e-tron, Audi's electrification strategy is still going on strong, and expect more to come as the opportunity arises. While most speedo boys delivered an annoyed grunt over the addition of an electric crossover in the lineup, the Q4 e-tron is commonsense in the new normal, like it or not. Those who are looking for a new luxury electric crossover that is worth a trip to the office on Mondays and outings on the weekends should look no further.

Photo: Audi AG

Audi e-tron GT / RS e-tron GT

From concept to reality, the Audi e-tron GT comes to life as the newest electric sports saloon that targets the likes of the Porsche Taycan and the king of electric saloons, the Tesla Model S. Time to have a quick look through one of 2021's most exciting electric cars to drive.

2022 Audi e-tron GT

The Audi e-tron GT, priced at 99,800 Euros plus additional costs, is more costly to own than the Tesla Model S, but despite being outgunned by the Californian superhero, this electric sports saloon promises to impress a new breed of Audi fanatics with its blend of performance and ecology ripe for this newcomer that promises to be as exciting to drive as a Porsche Taycan.

2022 Audi e-tron GT

Let's begin with the design. Being a concept turned reality, the e-tron GT's exterior is almost faithful to the concept car it was based on. Like the concept car, the e-tron GT is flat, wide, and has a long wheelbase fit for a classic Gran Turismo car. With its coupe-like form, it's no surprise that this electric premium sedan looks surprisingly attractive by Audi standards and it could be the one that can break the longstanding impasse that plagued Audi for being a pariah of the German luxury car market.

2022 Audi e-tron GT interior

Stylish the coupe-like form the e-tron GT is, the interior is all about true to its character. While not bothered to play around with its infotainment and Audi connect, including the highly annoying Amazon Alexa feature that has been butting everybody in the back seat as well as the virtual engine sound system on it that mimics the noises of internal combustion engines of the past, the driver's side is not half bad to live with. 

On the passenger side, it is still as comfy as an Audi A8 without all the drama involved, making it the ideal chauffeur car for VIPs who happen to work at high-profile environmental groups. As for the boot space on both sides, it wasn't half bad as long as you're not toying around with the front hood luggage compartment, trying to fool the world that it's got no engine on it because there isn't one. Only the electric motors are placed underneath the car and in control of all four wheels.

2022 Audi RS e-tron GT

About the electric motors mentioned, these two allowed the normal e-tron GT to produce a total power output of 476PS of power and 630Nm of torque. It does 0-100kph in 4.1 seconds and has a top speed of 245kph. As for the range, it's good for 479km on WLTP standards, and when plugged into a public charging station, it will reach 80% by 23 minutes.

It may be electric but it behaves just like an Audi. Not as exciting as expected but it sure is a well-balanced Audi that drives through any road conditions, even on snowy days, thanks to the signature Audi quattro permanent all-wheel-drive system with an electric twist. Couple it with its air suspension and damping, double-wishbone setup, and rear-axle differential lock, and you got yourself a luxury electric sedan that not only looks good on the road but feels good to drive.

Speaking of drive, there's an RS e-tron GT for those who demand more. Priced at an ultra-expensive 138,200 Euros plus additional costs, it is nearly similar to the normal one but it features numerous standard goodies that are optional on the normal model such as Matrix LED headlights, ambient lighting package plus, adaptive suspension, and rear-axle differential lock, among many others.

The electric powertrain of the RS model produces 598PS of total power and 830Nm of total torque but when boost mode is engaged, it produces up to 646PS of power for a brief period of time, sprinting from 0-100kph in 3.3 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 250kph. It's almost as fast as an R8 V10 performance, making the RS e-tron GT an electric saloon with supercar levels of performance, well almost.

Of course, being a high-performance electric saloon built to satisfy every Audi fanatics of the world stage, there's no escaping the list of driver assist systems that will bore speedo boys behind the wheel but fine for well-behaved drivers.

And there you have it, the Audi e-tron GT may not be the ideal substitute for the Tesla Model S because of its pricing and performance, but as an Audi, it was made to blow away such expectations of what a so-called high-performance electric luxury saloon can do. This is the electric Audi that deserves well-needed attention.

Photo: Audi

Audi Q5 Sportback and SQ5 Sportback

With the release of the facelifted Audi Q5 (Typ FY), it didn't take long before Audi unveiled its newest addition to the lineup, something that hasn't been done since the unveiling of the second-generation Q5 a few years ago. Say hello to the Sportback version of the second-generation Audi Q5.

2022 Audi Q5 Sportback

2022 Audi SQ5 Sportback

The first-ever Audi Q5 Sportback promises to behave just like its regular equivalent despite its sloping roofline and the pricing that is 4,500 Euros more than the standard Q5, 51,950 Euros vs. 47,450 Euros plus additional costs. So, what to expect in the coupe version of the Q5?

At first glance, it looks just like the Q5, which gained a minor change last year, but because this is the coupe version, the Sportback is 15mm longer and 5mm lower, while the total width and the wheelbase remained the same. 

Whichever you look at it, you have to be an egalitarian to judge the way the Q5 Sportback looks, especially the sporty version known as the SQ5 Sportback, which features the same mix of aftershave smell and sweat from its standard SQ5 while donning the coupe look and the price that is 3,050 Euros more than the standard SQ5.

2022 Audi Q5 Sportback interior

2022 Audi SQ5 Sportback interior

The interior works just like the Q5, especially the numerous toys to play on the driver's side except for the implementation of the Amazon Alexa feature that is going to be an overall nuisance for those in its sweet spot. It even seats up to five people as well, but because this is the coupe version, the boot space has been cut by 10L and the high loading capacity has been dropped by 40L as well, but despite being less spacious than the normal Q5, it's still got plenty of room for almost everything, especially the deliveries you're working on if you're a courier boy working from a swanky company.

Under the hood, the Q5 Sportback features almost the same choice of powerplants as the standard version, ranging from petrol, diesel, and a plug-in hybrid. The latter features a 2.0L TFSi engine with an electric motor and a Li-ion battery bolted to it. It produces a total power output of 367PS of power and 500Nm of torque. Mated to a 7-speed DSG, it goes from 0-100kph in 5.3 seconds and has a top speed of 239kph. Fuel consumption is a combined 1.5L/100km based on WLTP standards.

The SQ5, meanwhile, features a 3.0L TDI engine with a 48v mild hybrid system that produces up to 341PS of power and 700Nm of torque. Mated to an 8-speed AT, it accelerates from 0-100kph in 5.1 seconds, which is faster than the normal Q5 PHEV variant and has an electronically limited top speed of 250kph. I know that most Europeans hate diesel in this new normal but it doesn't hurt driving the SQ5 Sportback in terms of performance.

Because it's lower than the standard Q5, the Sportback version tends to be slightly more grippy than the standard Q5, and looks like Audi's not kidding with it. It's not what you called fun but it feels so generous to drive as most Audis should and with the quattro permanent all-wheel-drive system, it feels like it's ready to take on almost everything. It even comes with an adaptive air suspension for more ground clearance on dirt.

In the SQ5, meanwhile, its sport-tuned dynamics tell a different story but it is still as mild to drive as most Audis should.

Of course, like today's crossovers, the Q5 Sportback comes with numerous driver-assist systems ranging from adaptive cruise assist, predictive efficiency assist, and the Audi pre sense city system, among many others.

The Sportback version of the facelifted Audi Q5 is proof that you can't stop the rise of coupe crossovers because, in the "new normal", crossover utility vehicles are treated like superhero movies and they sell big-time. The Q5 Sportback is one of them and despite being less spacious than the standard Q5, it still wouldn't bother to be bought by anyone who wants a coupe crossover for a change. This is what the new normal feels like.

Photo: Audi AG