Audi has taken the advantage in the compact luxury SUV fight against BMW by pricing the new Q5 below the X3 line-up.
The Q5 will be on display at the Melbourne International Motor Show later this month before it goes on sale in May. Audi announced prices for the range today with both the 2.0 petrol and diesel models set at $59,900. The 3.2-litre petrol starts at $69,900 with the 3.0-litre diesel topping the range at $71,900.
By comparison, the X3 range starts with the 2.0-litre diesel priced from $61,830 moving up to the 3.0-litre diesel at $76,996.
All Q5 models will come equipped with Audi's famed Quattro all-wheel drive system and seven-speed S tronic gearbox. Audi is also claiming the Q5 has the largest load capacity of its class at 540 litres.
"The Q5 is priced very competitively, and it is an extremely attractive package," says Joerg Hofmann, Audi Australia managing director. "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.
"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 new model comes at a time when Audi are enjoying steady growth despite a downturn in the market last year.