Audi used the Beijing Motor Show in earl 2008 to launch its all-new Q5 crossover. Building on the success of its larger Q7, Audi hopes the Q5 will allow it to capitalize on the growing demand for more compact SUVs.

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In 2007, Audi announced it would build the Q5, following a 300 million euro investment in the Ingolstadt production facility. The crossover is Audi's answer to the X3 from BMW and Mercedes' new GLK.

At 2.81 meters (9.22 feet), the wheelbase is the longest in its segment -- creating a roomy interior on board the Audi Q5. Measuring 4.63 meters (15.19 feet) long and 1.88 meters (6.17 feet) wide, the Audi Q5 is just 1.65 meters (5.41 feet) high, giving it a sporty appearance. 19-inch wheels further bolster this look.

The Q5 shares a platform with the A4 and A5. The platform's layout will make it possible for Audi to offer a full range of engines, meaning that the brand's various FSI-equipped four and six-cylinder engines, plus some high efficiency diesel models will be offered. It's even possible that the 4.2 litre V8 will find its way under the hood for an S-line version.

Current global engine choices include: a 2.0 TFSI (211 hp / 258 lb-ft), a 2.0 TDI (170 hp / 258 lb-ft), and a 3.0 TDI (240 hp / 369 lb-ft). It's not know which engines will be offered in the U.S. market.

The Q5 has an updated version of the quattro all-wheel-drive system with a six-speed manual or the new seven-speed DSG gearbox. It comes equipped stahdard with hill-descent control and an adjustable air suspension. The Q5 is a five-seater, unlike the seven-person Q7.

Despite being a car-based crossover, the Q5 is still capable off-road. Its climbing capability of 31 degrees of incline is very respectable. The overhang angle is 25 degrees thanks to the short front overhang. The ramp breakover angle, determined by the wheelbase, is 17.5 degrees. Ground clearance is an impressive 7.87 inches, with a fording depth of up to 19.69 inches when driving through water.

The Q5 can be ordered with a number of luxury features. These include the Audi parking system advanced with rearview camera, Audi lane assist (the lane departure warning system) and Audi side assist, which warns of hazards when changing lanes. Adaptive cruise control maintains a constant distance between the performance SUV and the vehicle in front.

Additional extras for the Audi Q5 include the advanced key for keyless access to the vehicle, a tire pressure monitoring system, the large panoramic glass sunroof with additional tilting function, the triple-zone climate control system, sun blinds for the rear side windows, the dynamic cornering light system known as Audi adaptive light, an electric tailgate and a swiveling trailer hitch. The high-beam assistant automatically switches between the high and low beams. On request, the front seats can be electrically adjusted, heated and ventilated.