2009 Audi Q5 Launched In Australia

• New Audi Q5 compact SUV is launched in Australia
• New seven-speed S tronic transmission at launch
• Pricing from $59,900

Following its Aussie debut at the 2009 Melbourne International Motor Show, the Audi Q5 has now been officially launched in Australia.

Audi’s managing director Joerg Hofmann says that like the Audi Q7, the Audi Q5 is set to fit perfectly into the versatile lifestyle-oriented Australian market.

“The Q5 is priced very competitively, and it is an extremely attractive package. Both diesel engines and both petrol engines on offer combine strong performance with good fuel economy – a hallmark of our brand. It also looks good and offers typically top quality fit, finish and safety equipment,” Mr Hofmann said.

“The Q5 will undoubtedly give the Audi range a strong boost in 2009 – in image and also in sales. Our network is extremely positive about this addition to our range.”

The Audi Q5 will be offered with two engines at launch: the awards-winning 2.0 litre four-cylinder TFSI petrol engine and a 3.0 litre V6 TDI diesel engine.

The 2.0 TFSI generates 155kW between 4300 and 6000rpm, and 320Nm of torque at 1500 to 4200rpm.  the 2.0 TFSI is the latest version of the engine voted ‘Engine of the Year’ four times in succession by an international panel of experts since 2005.

The 3.0 TDI V6 makes 176kW between 4000 and 4400rpm, and 500Nm of torque is available from 1500-3000rpm.

Audi’s seven-speed S tronic sports gearbox will be standard across the Q5 range, and the company’s quattro permanent all-wheel-drive system is also standard.  The quattro system distributes the car’s power 40:60 between the front and rear wheels.

Audi’s hill descent assistance system will also feature as standard across the range.

The Audi Q5’s ESP and ABS systems have been specially programmed to improve off-road driving, offering maximum traction when required.

Sensors in the roof recognise when the roof rack is in position, and, when laden, the ESP system will recognise that the car’s centre of gravity is higher and will alter its parameter settings to compensate.

Other driver assistance options include Audi Side Assist and Lane Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control and Audi Drive Select.

The Audi Q5 offers a spacious interior, and options include Audi’s MMI Navigation Plus system, with a seven-inch colour monitor and a 40gb hard drive, DVD drive, Bluetooth preparation and TV tuner.

Up to 1560 litres of cargo space is on offer in the Audi Q5 – more than any other vehicle in its class.  Special compartments for wet and dirty materials have been included, as well as cargo sectioning for safe storage of luggage and equipment.

Pricing: