Car Magazine: Stadler confirms that the Sportback concept is the A5 Sportback
 

Appears that Audi's new platform has spawned several interesting variants ranging from the A4, A5 to Q5, and now including the A5 Sportback concept. Interesting to note that the Sportback concept is much longer than the A5 and rivals the A6 in overall length.

Another interesting design element is the one piece front bumper/fender assembly. The BMW X5 has a similar assembly and that is formed from plastic. This could represent Audi's foray into using plastics for front fender assemblies, potentially reducing the front axle weight loadings.<ul><li><a href="http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/News/Search-Results/Motor-show--events/Detroit-Motor-Show-/2009/Audi-Sportback-unveiled-at-Detroit-auto-show-2009-110109/">Car magazine article on Audi Sportback concept</a></li></ul>

wow. so they're going to have two "sportbacks?" That's a lot of cars in this segment

Yes but not entirely. The concept represents both the A5 and A7 Sportback.

you mean at least 3. You already have the A3/S3 sportback. A5 and A7 are coming.

I don't really see how the A3 is more similar to these than to an avant

This week's Autocar states BMW is working on 3- and 5-series GTs...
 

These vehicles are said to have a higher seating position than the typical 3- and 5-series sedans, combining some features of a SUV with that of a sedan/coupe', to form an alternative combining utility and sportiness. Conceptually, this is what Audi has with the A5/A7 sportback ideas. Audi, however, does not ape the high seating position of the SUV.

Modern manufacturing strategies and technologies allow manufactures to amortize initial development cost over several high margin niche products, and Audi, coupled with BMW, MB, Toyota, Honda, and Porsche remain among the best. Interestingly, even Toyota is introducing a vehicle, the Venza, aligning utility with sporty pretensions.

You didnt say similar. You said there would be 2 sportbacks, This will make 3