2008 Audi Q5: Real or Photoshop?

First images surface

Real or fake, it is never really clear until the official press releases come through the usual channels. Leaks on the other hand are becoming more common by the auto show so it stands to reason that this may just be the real deal. Points for authenticity are given due to the amount of shots (including interior), but the rear looks like it could have been computer edited.

On cartribe.co.uk the first five images of the new Audi Q5 surfaced today, photographed from the upcoming Auto Bild issue. At least, that is what the source says but in none of the images can we spot a date or issue number from the magazine. The only thing we can confirm is that the article is in German.

Either way, the front and side look as expected but the rear displays some new styling. Out with the curvy and in with rectangle-ish taillights, the rear light cluster resembles nothing Audi has ever done before. On a production vehicle that is, the Audi Cross Cabriolet Concept, which debuted at the LA Auto Show, features a similar tail light cluster. On a side note, the Q5 was initially scheduled to make it world premiere at the LA Auto Show, but has been pushed to Geneva instead.

Thanks to Tom for the tip.

[UPDATE] AutoBild has an ad for their print magazine (issue 6/2008) on their front page claiming to feature exclusive Audi Q5 images. Thank you Bartinho.

[UPDATE]  02/25/2008 - photos removed as requested by Auto Bild