2025 Auto Shanghai: SAIC–Audi Unveils First Production Model, the AUDI E5 Sportback

SAIC–Audi has officially introduced the AUDI E5 Sportback at the 2025 Auto Shanghai exhibition, marking a pivotal moment in the evolution of Audi’s strategy in China. The vehicle is the inaugural model under the newly formed AUDI brand, a collaboration between SAIC Motor Corporation and Audi AG, developed exclusively for the Chinese market. The E5 Sportback is slated for a mid-2025 market launch in China. It will be followed by two more all-electric models under the AUDI brand, scheduled for release in 2026 and 2027.

In a distinct departure from Audi’s global branding, the new sub-brand omits the iconic four-ring emblem. Instead, it features the capitalised ‘AUDI’ wordmark, symbolising a fresh identity while maintaining the core engineering principles and performance legacy associated with the German automaker. The brand aims to deliver models that align more closely with the expectations and preferences of Chinese consumers.

Visually, the AUDI E5 Sportback adopts a sleek, athletic design. Measuring 4870 mm in length, 1990 mm in width, and 1460 mm in height, with a generous 2950 mm wheelbase, the model has a low-slung, fastback profile that claims to enhance both aerodynamics and aesthetics. The car’s exterior reinterprets Audi’s traditional design language through a contemporary lens, highlighted by a circular LED light array and the absence of the four-ring badge. 

Performance specifications are notable. The top variant delivers up to 776 bhp, enabling acceleration from 0 to 100 kmph in just 3.4 seconds. The vehicle offers a maximum range of 770 km under China’s CLTC testing standard, supported by a 100 kWh battery pack. Four electric powertrain configurations are available, including both rear-wheel and quattro all-wheel drive options. The 800-volt system architecture facilitates ultra-fast charging, with up to 370 km of range added in 10 minutes. 

Inside, the E5 Sportback balances high-tech innovation with traditional craftsmanship. Expansive wood trim elements add a sense of warmth and refinement to the interior, reinforcing the model's premium positioning. The E5 Sportback’s dashboard is dominated by a 27-inch pillar-to-pillar 4K digital display, powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 chipset. The new AUDI OS operating system supports customisable layouts and is integrated with an AI-powered virtual assistant that offers both touch and voice interaction.

The E5 Sportback is the first vehicle built on the Advanced Digitised Platform (ADP), a new modular vehicle architecture tailored specifically for China. Co-developed by SAIC and Audi, the ADP features a zonal electronic architecture that supports next-generation connectivity, over-the-air software updates, and advanced in-car digital experiences.

Advanced safety and automation features are delivered through the AUDI 360 Assisted Driving system, which relies on 29 perception hardware units, including a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor. The vehicle also features progressive all-wheel steering and adaptive air suspension, aiming to combine ride comfort with dynamic handling.