Shanghai Surprise: Audi Cross Coupe Quattro

If there were any doubt that the Chinese market is becoming more important to automakers, there shouldn’t be anymore after this week’s Shanghai Motor Show. Today Audi debuted what will most likely be its new compact SUV — most likely dubbed Q5 — on the internet in advance of its official Shanghai unveiling.

It sports a four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, Quattro all-wheel drive and an adjustable suspension system. This isn’t being called a concept, but the production model will most likely tone down the grille and interior a bit, and there will be regular gasoline engines offered in line with Audi's current range.

Our guess would be for the actual Q5 to debut at the Frankfurt auto show this fall. The on-sale date for the U.S. will likely be in early 2008. We’ll keep you posted as more news comes in, but for now, check out more photos below.

Comments

Finally, an Audi with a new dash/instrument panel. I know Audi interiors are renown for their design and ergonomics but it's been the same hump-and-a-seven dash in every Audi for the last 5 years. The design here is finally different and it looks good. Lets hope the new look makes it to production. The rest of the vehicle is typically Audi styling. Audi does a great job of recycling design themes established in previous cars and making them look new yet Audi familar. I see a number of different Audi models in the Q5 but it still manages to look fresh and new.

This car is just perfect version of crossover. How soon they will start to sell 'em?