2008 Beijing Auto Show: 2009 Audi Q5

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BEIJING — Audi chose one of the major international auto shows as the backdrop for launching its all-new Q5 crossover vehicle. That the show happens to be in Beijing is an indication of how important the China market has become for multinational automakers, and how much it matters especially for luxury brands such as Audi.

The five-passenger Q5 joins a growing list of premium crossovers crowding into China. But North America will be equally important; the vehicle is slated to make its debut in the U.S. in early 2009 as a 2009 model.

Design cues reflect a strong influence from the larger Q7, albeit in a more compact package. The Q5 is 2 inches longer than a BMW X3 and 4 inches shorter than a Lexus RX 350. Eighteen-inch wheels and tires will be standard in the U.S., with options up to 20 inches.

Inside, the Q5 has two rows of seats, with an optional "rear bench seat plus" that slides nearly 4 inches fore and aft to provide easier entry and exit, as well as access to the roomy rear cargo bay. Available features include DVD navigation, rearview camera, adaptive lighting, intelligent key, three-zone automatic climate control, iPod interface and Bang & Olufsen audio system.

Only one powertrain combination will be offered in the States: a 3.2-liter V6 direct-injection gasoline engine with six-speed Tiptronic gearbox and all-wheel drive.

What this means to you: We haven't seen the last of new crossover models from Audi. The Q3 arrives in 2009, and a baby Q1 is rumored beyond that. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent