Audi claims that its new Audi Q5 combines the poise of a sports saloon with highly variable interior and versatile options for leisure-time and family use. This latest Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) uses the Audi quattro permanent all-wheel drive. The car uses a new seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission and Audi drive select control system to create what Audi calls a performance SUV for all seasons and all surfaces.

The new Audi Q5 offers a more compact SUV option than the bigger Q7 model. Expect to see models hit Irish shores by the year end.

The dimensions alone indicate that this is a SUV of new proportions. Measuring 4.63 metres long and 1.88 metres wide, the Audi Q5 is just 1.65 metres high, giving it a more purposeful stance than any of its competitors. What's more, this SUV sets another benchmark in its class with a low drag coefficient of 0.33.

The front end is dominated by expressive headlights on both sides of the large single-frame grille; on request, they can be equipped with bi-xenon lamps and LED daytime running lights. Viewed from the side, the large wheels and rising edges are especially prominent features.

The Q5 comes with a roof rail, which Audi believe underscores the slim, coupe-like styling. At the rear, the wraparound tailgate, made from aluminum like the bonnet, clearly identifies this SUV as a relative of its older brother, the Audi Q7. The tail lights are available with distinctive LED lighting technology as well.

Audi will offer three different options for the external trim of the Q5, black (standard), contrasting colour or a full body-coloured paint finish. Two body packages are available as well. The S line exterior package imparts a more sporty look to the performance SUV, while the alternative off-road style package with underbody protection in the front and back and 19-inch wheels gives the SUV a more robust character.

At 2.81 metres in length, the wheelbase is the longest in its segment, creating a roomy interior on board the Audi Q5. The vehicle comfortably accommodates five persons in ergonomically designed seats that can be flexibly arranged.

The backrests for the rear seats are angle-adjustable and especially easy to fold down by activating the remote release lever in the luggage compartment. This compartment, offering access to a second storage area under the floor, then expands from 540 to 1,560 litres in volume. Optional extras include a rail mounting kit for luggage, a net partition and a luggage compartment liner.

Top-of-the-line safety equipment is a given for Audi cars. On the front seats, the belt force limiters and airbags work together in a new and especially intelligent manner. Much of the body of the Audi Q5 is made of high- and ultra-high-strength steel components assembled with maximum precision. They reduce weight while at the same time improving crash safety as well as rigidity and vibration patterns.

The Audi Q5 comes standard with an electromechanical parking brake, an intelligent chip key, a climate control system and a display screen in the instrument cluster depicting, among other things, the recommended ideal gear for efficient driving in the given situation. A large, central monitor is part of the standard equipment as well. When an onboard navigation system is added, many of the controls are shifted to the MMI panel on the centre console. This is the next generation of the best operating system on the market – with even more intuitive graphics and control via the large rotary pushbutton.

The Audi Q5 launches with three engine variants – one petrol engine and two TDI units. All of the engines are direct-injection models with a turbocharger – characterized by outstanding performance, strong propulsive power and polished refinement while at the same time offering impressive fuel efficiency.

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