Ok, so there is hope for me . . .

Audi Cross Cabriolet Quattro
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Don't let the concept tag on Audi's Cross Cabriolet Quattro fool you. Our sources say the German automaker's Los Angeles show car is definitely what we'll see when the Q5 arrives in early 2009. The two-door four-seater forges new ground in the SUV market with a convertible soft top that stows in just 17 seconds for a view undisturbed by B-pillars or a roll bar.

Powering the concept is the latest ultra-low-emissions, turbocharged, 3.0-liter, 240-hp I6 diesel mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Underpinnings borrow heavily from the rest of the Audi family, with chassis and drivetrain from the A4/A5, combined with the Q7's continuous damping controls and electric ride-height adjustment. Audi drive select also appears, with its three preset engine, transmission and suspension configurations. Ceramic disc brakes provide stopping power.

Inside, the concept features a 505-watt Bang & Olufsen digital sound system, Audi's Multi-Media Interface with Google Earth navigation and a touch pad for screen selection. Large doors provide easy access to the back seats.

Look for the production Q5 to bow in either New York or China next spring, with U.S. sales beginning in 2009.