After a series of teaser and sketches, Audi finally reveals the new generation Q7. The biggest SUV in its range is ready to make a public debut during next year Detroit Auto Show, scheduled to begin January 15th.
Exterior
The new generation Audi Q7 wants to be a revolutionary car, built on a completely new platform that allows it to be 325 kilograms (716 pounds) easier than its predecessor. Although the exterior dimensions have been reduced, it offers substantially more interior room for passengers and luggage. It has the best height/weight ratio in its class: 5.05 metres (199 inches) long, a 2.99 metre (118 inch) wheelbase, 1.97 metres (77 inches) wide and 1.74 metres (68 inches) tall (with steel suspension).
Equipped with the 3.0 TDI engine, the new Audi Q7 tips the scales at just 1,995 kilograms (4398 pounds), which is 325 kilograms (716 pounds) less weight. The big SUV is 37 millimetres (1.5 inches) shorter and 15 millimetres (1/2 inch) narrower while virtually the same height.
Interior
Inside, however, there is an additional 21 millimetres between the first and second rows of seats, and headroom has increased by 41 millimetres and 23 millimetres in the first and second rows, respectively. In the cockpit, the new Q7 is more quieter and has ambient lighting that uses LEDs exclusively.
The second-generation modular infotainment platform is on board, as is the Audi virtual cockpit. The new MMI all-in-touch control unit has a large touchpad, and also includes 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.
Availability
The first cars expected to arrive on the market will be powered by the latest incarnation of the 3.0 TDI engine with 272PS, which is capable of taking it from 0 to 62 mph in 6.3 seconds. The diesel V6 can return up to 47.8 mpg in the Q7, corresponding to 153 grams of CO2 per kilometre.
A second variant of the 3.0 TDI with 218 PS and 500 Nm (368.8 lb-ft) of torque will follow at a later date. There will also be an e-tron version.
Another highlight of the new Q7 is the comprehensive portfolio of new driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assistant.
