Making its world debut in Beijing, the Q5 is Audi’s first entry into the growing luxury crossover market. The Q5 has a sporty appearance with a wide stance, bold fender flares and available 20-inch wheels. The clamshell cargo hatch is similar to the styling of the larger Q7, providing both a wide opening for easy loading while needing little space behind the vehicle to raise the hatch. Split taillights, like those on the Q7, leave lights visible even with the hatch open. Inside is a large cargo area that can be expanded by either sliding the rear seats forward or folding them flat. While a number of different engine options are available for the European and Asian market, the Q5 will be available exclusively with a 270-horsepower 3.2-liter V6 when it goes on sale in North America early in 2009. Audi’s legendary quattro all-wheel-drive system will be standard on all
