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The plethora of crossover utility vehicles hitting the streets is somewhat concerting to me. There seems to be a lack of vehicles that singularly excel at one purpose. Take the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon or Lotus Elise as examples. One can tromp trails and one can scorch streets. Call me old fashioned, but I like something that’s unparalleled in function.

That said, the newly announced at the Bejing Auto Show Audi Q5 gives me promise for crossovers. Vehicles that otherwise excel at no function except to carry groceries through inclement weather and do so with a good sound system and leather. The US version will be a V6 3.2 liter 265 horsepower (243lb-ft torque) all wheel drive Quattro whip. The Q5 will share little with the Audi Q7 being based more A5 coupe and A4 sedan/wagon.

Inside you’ll see much of the current Audi design cues in addition to an oceanic sunroof but also a good deal of cargo space and room for four. Take my advice and avoid asking three grown adults to sit in the back row of any car, unless it’s three beautiful women.

Image of interior after the jump.

Estimated Cost: $30,000 - $50,000 @ Audi

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