2009 Audi Q5

Expanding the Quiver

With the Q5, Audi makes a strong entrance into the rapidly intensifying battle for compact luxury SUV supremacy.

The five-passenger Audi Q5 is coming to the United States in early 2009 to compete with other compact premium SUVs, including the Acura RDX, BMW X3, Infiniti EX, Land Rover LR2 and the recently announced Mercedes GLK-Class and Volvo XC60. It slots in below the Q7 in Audi's lineup.

We expect the Q5 to be sporty and nimble. It’s based on Audi’s compact A4 Sedan platform.

A 3.2-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque with a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission will power the U.S. version. All-wheel drive will be standard. In addition to conventional settings optimized for driving on and off road, the Q5’s electric stability program has a third setting to help counteract instability created by mounting heavy objects on the roof.

An optional sliding rear bench seat makes the Q5's interior more flexible. Audio enthusiasts will like the optional 505-watt, 14-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system.

Check back for a full review.