Audi’s new crossovers launch delayed in USA

By delaying the introductions, Audi can label the vehicles 2010 models. They had been scheduled to debut in the third quarter of next year.

"The decision is also related to maintaining higher residuals and added marketing opportunities — we could use the Detroit auto show to market them," says de Nysschen.

The Q5 is Audi’s answer to the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLK, which also is due in 2009.

The Q7 hybrid will be powered by a 3.6-liter, 280-hp fuel-injected gasoline engine mated to an electric motor. The hybrid system will use about 23 percent less fuel than a gasoline-only Q7.

The turbodiesel Q7 will be powered by a 3.0-liter V-6 engine with an output of 230 hp and 400 lbs-ft peak of torque. The diesel will be Audi’s first in the United States and can be sold in all 50 states.