In 2008 Audi will launch diesel and hybrid versions of the Q7. "We believe it is an important business opportunity we cannot afford to ignore," says Johan de Nysschen, executive vice president in charge of Audi.

The Q7 diesel will be powered by a 3.0-liter V-6 TDI engine. The same engine can be used in the A4 and A6 cars, as well as the new A5 coupe due later this year and smaller Q5 SUV for 2008.

The Q7 hybrid will debut in the second half of 2008 and it is expected to be priced about $3,000 to $4,000 over a gasoline-powered car.