Ingolstadt, Germany - Audi has launched a smaller compact SUV alongside the Q7 with a range of on and offroad technology and versatile options for leisure and family use.

Unveiled at the recent Auto China motor show in Beijing, some of the highlights of the Audi Q5 include the seven-speed S tronic dual- clutch transmission and drive select control system.

Measuring 4.63 metres and 1.88 metres in width, the Audi Q5 is just 1.65 metres in height with a low drag coefficient of 0.33.

In keeping with the character of the brand, the Q5 is dominated by headlights on both sides of the large single-frame grille. They can also be fitted with bi-xenon lamps and LED daytime running lights.

The backrests for the rear seats are angle-adjustable and especially easy to fold down by activating the remote release lever in the luggage compartment. It offers access to a second storage area under the floor, then expands from 540 to 1,560 litres in volume. Optional extras include a rail mounting kit for luggage, a net partition and a luggage compartment liner.

As an option, Audi offers the "rear bench seat plus", which slides 100 millimetres lengthwise to provide a load-through facility. The front passenger seat can be equipped with a folding backrest for transportation of long objects such as surfboards.

Customers have the choice of two petrol and one diesel engine. The 2.0 TFSI has been entirely redesigned. It has an output of 155 kW/211 hp and consumes just 8.5 litres per 100 kilometres. The 2.0 TDI delivers 125 kW/170 hp with an average consumption of just 6.7 litres per 100 kilometres. The most powerful engine in the line-up is the 3.0 TDI. This V6 diesel engine has an output of 176/240 hp.

Audi has however not announced when the Q5 is available in the showroom and at what price. (dpa)