The Q5 is Audi’s best-selling SUV, or perhaps more accurately, CUV (crossover utility vehicle). The sportier, more performance-oriented SQ5 variant was introduced for the 2014 model year, and the Q5 lineup diversifies further for 2021 with the introduction of Sportback versions. The desirability of the fastback styling on an Audi SUV was proven when the fully electric e-tron got the Sportback treatment for 2020. Both the Q5 Sportback and the SQ5 Sportback hit the market in 2021; the former is covered [__in a separate review__](https://www.cargurus.com/research/2021-Audi-Q5-Sportback-c31437). Like its Q5 and SQ5 counterparts, the 2021 Audi SQ5 Sportback is offered in three trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige. The sole engine option for the SQ5 and SQ5 Sportback is a turbocharged V6 which makes 349 horsepower. It compares favorably to the 261-hp four-cylinder that powers the Q5 and Q5 Sportback, but not necessarily to the powerplants of its rivals from the likes of BMW, Mercedes, and Porsche. An eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive system are standard. The 2021 SQ5 Sportback requires premium fuel and gets an estimated 18 mpg city, 24 highway, and 20 combined. It can reach a maximum towing capacity of 4,400 pounds when properly equipped. The SQ5 Sportback comes standard with leather seats which are both heated and power-adjustable for the front row, regardless of the trim. Ventilated seats are available, and heated rear seats are standard in for the Prestige trim. Tri-zone climate control is standard across the SQ5 Sportback lineup. The Convenience package offered for the base Premium trim will add a heated steering wheel, memory settings for the driver’s seat, and keyless proximity entry. The standard power liftgate opens to 24.7 cubic feet of cargo volume with the rear seats up, increasing to 51.9 when they’re folded. A 10.1-inch touchscreen Is standard, as are wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. A Bang & Olufsen stereo system is available, and the SQ5 Sportback provides two USB ports and a whopping three 12-volt outlets. Lane-departure warning, forward-collision mitigation, front and rear automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert are all standard. The Premium Plus trim also gets a lane-keeping system, surround-view camera, and adaptive cruise control, and Prestige adds a head-up display and traffic-sign recognition to the list. The 2021 Audi SQ5 Sportback is on sale now. The Premium trim starts at $56,100, Premium Plus at $59,500, and Prestige at $64,700. Audi includes a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and a powertrain warranty of the same length, but no complimentary maintenance.