Audi e-tron

Audi’s all-new Q5 Sportback has been spotted for the first time ahead of a scheduled unveiling later this year. The Audi Q5 Sportback – a Q5 SUV but with a sloping, coupe-like rear roofline – will be the only completely new addition to the brand’s line-up in 2020. The Q5 Sportback is expected to adopt its underpinnings and interior from the updated Q5 due to be revealed later this year, however technical specifications for the models remain scarce.

Audi has used a number of small tweaks to free up 25km of extra range from its electric E-Tron SUV. The changes were debuted on the E-Tron Sportback revealed at the Los Angeles motor show, but have been passed on to the more practical E-Tron. According to Audi, the regenerative braking system – which uses the electric motors to harvest energy usually lost to heat when you brake – has been reworked to reduce residual brake torque, created by the brake calipers sitting close to the discs.

Photographers have snapped what is believed to be a performance version of the Audi e-tron quattro at the Nurburgring in Germany. A few different prototypes have been lapping the iconic circuit, wearing camouflage around lower sections of the body, while also sporting lowered suspension and beefed up wheel and brake packages.

Audi's current R8 is something of an anachronism, running with a naturally-aspirated V10 engine as rivals move to downsized, turbocharged motors. The next-generation won't be, based on a new report from Europe. According to CAR, the the upcoming electric supercar will be called the E-Tron GTR. It's likely to make 500kW of power, and rely on a 95kWh battery pack good for around 500km on a full charge. Oh, and it'll be compatible with wireless charging.