Audi has moved into a new niche with the unveiling of the Q5 SUV.

Slotting in below the huge Q7, the Q5 is itself no minnow – 4.63m long and 1.88m wide, it has the largest wheelbase in the segment and promises a roomy interior for five people, thanks to a flexible seating system.

Styling continues the Q7 theme and power comes from three engines at launch – a 2.0 TFSI petrol unit, with 208bhp, and two TDI diesels.

The 2.0 TDI delivers 168bhp and 258lb-ft of torque, which means 62mph in 9.5 seconds from stationary and fuel economy of 42.1mpg.

2008 Audi Q5

The most powerful unit is the 3.0 TDI, a V6 with 237bhp and 369lb-ft of torque. Acceleration is a pretty rapid 6.5 seconds to 62mph, with official combined economy of 36.6mpg.

The 3.0 TDI and 2.0 TFSI both feature a new twin-clutch S tronic seven-speed automatic transmission.

 

Quattro four-wheel-drive is standard across the range.

The Q5 will go on sale at the end of the year, priced from around £30,000.