Audi E5 Sportback named 2026 China Car of the Year
The fully electric Audi E5 Sportback, the first model from Audi's China-exclusive sister brand, has won the 2026 China Car of the Year award.
- up to 579 kW
- 770 km
- 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds
What Happened
The Audi E5 Sportback, a fully electric fastback, won the 2026 China Car of the Year award from a panel of industry media experts. It is the first model from the new AUDI brand, established as a China-exclusive sister brand, and the first brand to win the award just one year after debut.
AUDI brand launched in Shanghai
E5 Sportback debuts at Shanghai Auto Show
Production begins at dedicated Shanghai site; order books open
Customer deliveries begin
AUDI E SUV concept debuts at Guangzhou Auto Show
“This award validates our unique approach in China with two strong brands and deep integration of local innovation. Our transformation journey toward electrification and intelligent connected driving is on course.”
“It is a great honor to receive the China Car of the Year award for the AUDI E5 Sportback. As the first model from the new AUDI brand, it truly represents the brand's spirit: the best of both worlds.”
Why this matters
The award validates Audi's unique approach in China with a dedicated brand and local innovation, showing its transformation toward electrification and intelligent driving is on track.
Terms in This Story
- quattro
- Audi's trademark all-wheel-drive system that distributes power to all four wheels for improved traction.
- over-the-air updates
- Software updates delivered wirelessly to a vehicle, allowing features to be added or improved without a dealership visit.
- ADP
- Advanced Digitized Platform – Audi's new vehicle architecture designed for electric and connected vehicles.
- fastback
- A car body style with a sloping roofline that extends to the rear, combining coupé-like styling with practicality.
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