With the new Q7, Audi is setting standards in the premium SUV segment. 325 kilograms less weight and the low centre of mass make it extremely agile.
At the same time, it is the most spacious car in its segment. Although the exterior dimensions have been reduced, it offers substantially more interior room for passengers and luggage. Its innovative assistance and infotainment systems take the SUV to the front of the pack. The efficient engines consume 26 percent less fuel on average.
With a kerb weight of 1,995 kilograms (as 3.0 TDI), the new Audi Q7 is the lightest in its class. It weighs 325 kilograms less than the previous model. With its lightweight, multimaterial body and an all-new chassis, it is comfortable while at the same time offering the strong performance that is typical of Audi – and that with top-notch CO2 values. Audi engineers have reduced the fuel consumption of the Q7 TDI by as much as 23 percent.
The engines set top marks in the segment of large SUVs with all-wheel drive. The first phase of UK-bound Q7 models will be powered by the latest incarnation of the 3.0 TDI engine with 272PS, which is capable of taking it from 0 to 62mph in 6.3 seconds. The diesel V6 can return up to 47.8mpg in the Q7, corresponding to 153 grams of CO2 per kilometre.
The Audi Q7 also sets standards with respect to the operating concept, infotainment, connectivity and driver assistance systems. The second-generation modular infotainment platform is on board, as is the Audi virtual cockpit. The new MMI all-in-touch control unit with large touchpad makes operation child’s play. Other attractive innovations include the expanded services from Audi connect, the Audi tablet for rear seat passengers and the two sound systems with 3D audio. Smartphone integration with Google Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is also new. The new Audi Q7 is one of the first cars worldwide to offer these functions.
One highlight is the comprehensive portfolio of new driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assistant. No other production vehicle in the world currently offers more.
The Audi Q7 e-tron quattro, which will be launched soon after its conventionally powered counterparts, is the first plug in hybrid from Audi with a diesel engine. It impresses with 373PS of system output and a system torque of 700 Nm (516.3 lb-ft), and is also the world’s first diesel plug-in hybrid with quattro all-wheel drive in the premium SUV segment. It returns the equivalent of up to 166.1mpg, which corresponds to less than 50 grams of CO2 per kilometre. A full battery charge is sufficient for a distance of just under 35 miles.
