• Pricing announced for new Audi Q5 ahead of Australian launch
• Two direct injection engines priced below $60,000 rrp
• Brand new 7-speed S tronic transmission makes its debut

Audi Australia Pty Ltd has today announced pricing for it's new Q5 compact SUV ahead of the company's local launch.

The new Audi Q5 will arrive in the second quarter of 2009 and will be priced from just $59,900 for both the 2.0 TDI quattro and 2.0 TFSI quattro models. A powerful V6 3.2 quattro follows at just $69,900 and the mighty 3.0 TDI at a sharp $71,900.

Audi's managing director, Joerg Hofmann, says the Q5 will be a welcome addition to the range in Australia.

"The Q5 is priced very competitively, and it is an extremely attractive package. 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," Mr Hofmann said.

"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."

Four engine variants will be available for Australian buyers, all with direct injection turbo-charged engines and quattro permanent all-wheel drive.

The Audi Q5 2.0TDI quattro is exempt from luxury car tax thanks to its low consumption of 7.0l/100km.

All Audi Q5 models are equipped with Audi's consumption-saving 7-speed S-tronic gearbox. This new transmission means gear changes take only a few hundredths of a second and deliver virtually uninterrupted power flow.

The Audi Q5 is the first model to feature this innovative dual-clutch transmission mounted to a longitudinal engine layout. Matched with Audi's quattro permanent all wheel drive system with 40:60 torque split, the Audi Q5 offers optimum traction and superb handling on a variety of road surfaces.

Ideally suited to the Australian lifestyle, the Audi Q5 will follow in the successful footsteps of its larger sibling, the Audi Q7. With the largest load-carrying capacity in its class at 540 litres, the Q5, although compact, will swallow large quantities of luggage, sporting equipment and even the family pet.

It's versatile on and off-road capabilities make it ideal for weekends away, as well as day-to-day driving, and its coupe-like design and elegant interior mean the Q5 will look at home in the city, as well as open country roads.

The Audi Q5 will make its Australian debut at the 2009 Melbourne International Motor Show on 27 February 2009.