SAIC–Audi has officially revealed the AUDI E5 Sportback at the 2025 Auto Shanghai exhibition, marking a significant milestone in Audi’s expanding presence in China. The fully electric fastback is the first production model launched under the newly established AUDI brand — a joint venture between SAIC Motor Corporation and Audi AG — created exclusively for the Chinese market.
The E5 Sportback is set to enter the Chinese market in mid-2025 and serves as the inaugural vehicle in a broader product lineup tailored to local consumer demands. The launch will be followed by two additional all-electric models scheduled for release in 2026 and 2027, representing the next steps in what Audi describes as its largest product initiative to date.
A New Era for Audi in China
“With our new China-only brand AUDI, we are continuing to push boundaries,” said Gernot Döllner, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG. “The E5 Sportback offers the very best qualities of Audi, reimagined for and tailored to customers in China.”
Fermín Soneira, CEO of the Audi and SAIC Cooperation Project, highlighted the significance of the model, noting, “The AUDI E5 Sportback is our first model based on the Advanced Digitized Platform, and it delivers on our brand promise: the best of both worlds.”
Powertrain and Performance
Built on the jointly developed Advanced Digitized Platform (ADP), the AUDI E5 Sportback combines Audi’s heritage in performance and design with digital innovations from China’s technology ecosystem. The model is offered in four powertrain configurations with output levels ranging from 220 to 579 kW, and supports both rear-wheel and quattro all-wheel drive systems. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in as little as 3.4 seconds.
With a battery capacity of up to 100 kWh, the E5 Sportback delivers a maximum range of 770 kilometers on a full charge. Its 800-volt architecture enables ultra-fast charging, capable of replenishing 370 kilometers of range in just 10 minutes.
Design and Technology
Sporting a fastback silhouette and dynamic proportions (4,881 mm in length, 1,959 mm in width, 1,478 mm in height), the E5 Sportback features a bold design combining minimalist elegance with expressive detailing. The exterior introduces design elements such as circular wheel arches and a reimagined Singleframe grille called the AUDI Light Frame, merging lighting, sensors, and aerodynamic components into a cohesive visual feature.
Inside, the cabin features a clean, horizontally layered design enhanced by natural materials and ambient lighting. It integrates an immersive sound system and a panoramic glass roof with automatic dimming for a refined in-car experience. A 27-inch 4K display stretches across the dashboard, powered by the new AUDI OS running on the advanced Snapdragon 8295 chipset, ensuring seamless interaction via both touch and voice. Additional highlights include dual wireless charging pads with active cooling, headrest speakers, and thoughtfully designed connectivity features tailored for modern digital lifestyles.
Digital Experience and Safety
The E5 is equipped with a next-generation digital assistant — the AUDI Assistant — which uses AI for adaptive voice interaction and personalized user engagement. It supports various touchpoints including a contextual control bar and in-app features with facial recognition.
Safety and convenience are enhanced by the AUDI 360 Assisted Driving system, which includes a 100-line LiDAR sensor, multiple cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors. This setup enables advanced driving functions designed for urban and highway environments, including obstacle avoidance, intelligent cruise assist, and memory parking across multi-level locations.
Outlook
With the introduction of the AUDI E5 Sportback, SAIC–Audi is aligning closely with China’s rapidly evolving EV market and shifting consumer expectations. The launch highlights a growing trend among global automakers to localize development for strategic markets while maintaining core brand values. As the first in a trio of upcoming electric models under the AUDI brand, the E5 represents a key step in Audi’s broader push toward electrification and digital transformation in China.
Also Read: MG Cyberster Pre-Bookings Open Ahead of Launch
Also Read: BMW X3 2025: What’s New in this Luxury SUV
Also Read: Kia EV6 Facelift Launched In India At Rs 65.90 Lakh: Here’s What’s New
