Audi's Q5 emerges slimmer and sexier

The Audi Q5 is the brand's cash cow, so it stands to reason that a new Q5 would be a blowout affair.

When it arrives in the US, it'll come in two distinct trims.

The standard Q5 features a 252-horsepower four-cylinder, mated to a seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission.

The hopped-up SQ5 puts out 354 horsepower and 369 torques, and that comes with an eight-speed automatic.

Both cars feature a massively revised exterior that's reminiscent of the new Q7.

That likeness continues inside as the Q5 picks up the Q7's touchpad and steering wheel, as well as the optional Virtual Cockpit.

The Q5 is larger in every way, but Audi dropped the curb weight by relying on new materials.

Its Quattro all-wheel drive system has also been massively revised and now features a rear axle that can decouple to improve efficiency.

There are a bunch of safety systems on offer too, including autonomous emergency braking and adaptive cruise control with traffic-jam assist.

Both Q5 variants will go on sale in the US in early 2017.