HERNDON, VA - The only two sport-utility vehicles Audi offers - the Audi Q5 and the Audi Q7 - earned top rankings in their luxury Crossover / SUV categories in the newly released J.D. Power and Associates Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study.

Audi was one of only six brands surveyed that received at least two individual vehicle APEAL awards.

According to J.D. Power and Associates, the APEAL Study examines how gratifying a new vehicle is to own and drive, based on owner evaluations of more than 80 vehicle attributes. The 2010 APEAL Study is based on responses gathered between February and May 2010 from more than 76,000 purchasers and lessees of new 2010 model-year cars and trucks who were surveyed after the first 90 days of ownership.

"These latest J.D. Power and Associates study results demonstrate what our customers have been telling us for years," said Johan de Nysschen, President, Audi of America. "Audi vehicles are thrilling to drive and captivate the consumer whenever they enter one. Our company's exceptional growth in recent years is a testament to the quality experience our products provide."

The Audi Q5 combines the dynamism of a sports sedan with an impressively versatile interior and a wide range of practical features for leisure and family use. Powerful, efficient engines, quattro permanent all-wheel drive and an agile suspension layout form an impressive technological package for on-road and off-road use. Highlights such as the innovative S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and the driving dynamics system Audi drive select are the evidence of the Audi commitment to progressive innovation. The sportiest SUV in its class, it is dynamic, multifunctional and comfortable.

The Audi Q7 is the luxury SUV for sporty individualists, for people who are seeking a vehicle that will take them anywhere they want to go for sports, recreation, and business. It is available with a gasoline engine and the popular Audi TDI  clean diesel engine. With a standard third row on all models, the Q7 can accommodate up to seven passengers.

Audi ranked 6th overall in the study. J.D. Power and Associates said that historically, vehicle models achieving high APEAL scores have generated faster sales, higher profit margins, and less need for cash incentives. High levels of vehicle appeal also have a strong influence on customer recommendation rates.

To learn more about the J.D. Power and Associates APEAL Study, please go to http://www.jdpower.com/autos/articles/2010-APEAL-Study-Results.