2009 Audi Q5 Pricing Announced, Aussie Debut At Melbourne Motor Show

• Pricing announced for new Audi Q5 ahead of Australian launch
• Two direct-injection engines priced below $60,000rrp
• Brand new seven-speed S-tronic transmission makes its debut

The new Audi Q5 is set to arrive in Australia in the second quarter of 2009, starting at $59,900 for both the 2.0 litre TDI quattro and 2.0 litre TFSI quattro models.  The more powerful V6 3.2 litre quattro starts at $69,900, with the 3.0 litre TDI rounding out the range at $71,900.

All four variants will feature direct-injection turbo engines, and quattro permanent all-wheel-drive.

Joerg Hofmann, Audi’s managing director, believes the Q5 will be a welcome addition to the range in Australia.

“The Q5 is priced very competitively, and it is an extremely attractive package. Both diesel engines and both petrol engines 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.”

Thanks to its low fuel consumption (7.0 l/100km), the Audi Q5 2.0 TDI quattro is exempt from the luxury car tax.

All models across the Q5 range are equipped with Audi’s fuel-saving seven-speed S-tronic gearbox, allowing smoother power flow through quicker gear changes.  The Audi Q5 is the first model to feature the dual-clutch S-tronic transmission mounted to a longitudinal engine layout. Matched with the quattro permanent all-wheel-drive system with 40:60 torque split, Audi says the Q5 offers optimum traction and superb handling on a variety of road surfaces.

Although more compact than its larger Q7 sibling, the Audi Q5 offers 540 litres of load-carrying space – the largest in its class.

The Audi Q5 will make its Australian debut at the 2009 Melbourne International Motor Show on 27 February 2009.