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Audi Q5 priced from £29,725
Date: 15 July 2008 | Author: Tristan Young
Audi's new small off-roader will go on sale in November priced from £29,725.
Audi will launch with a range of three four-wheel drive models (see table) but is considering developing a lower-emissions front-drive version of its new small 4x4.
Speaking exclusively to BusinessCar, Oliver Scholl, one of the Q5's project leaders, said: "The Q5 is based on much of the A4's underpinnings which means it would be easy to do a front-drive version."
Many manufacturers are looking at offering front-drive versions of their off-roaders as a way of offering lower cost and lower emission models.
Renault has confirmed it will to introduce a 4x2 version of the upcoming Koleos, and sister firm Nissan already offers the X-trail in front-drive. BusinessCar also revealed Volvo, one of Audi's main rivals, is looking at bringing in a front-drive version of its XC60 small 4x4 due later this year.
Scholl said that a front drive version would have to wait until the Q5 was established as a genuine off-roader, but then Audi would discuss the needs of each market.
This is exactly the approach Audi took with the first generation TT. Initially it was only sold with the firm's Quattro 4x4 system and later in the car's life a front-drive version was added.
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