The next generation 2016 Audi Q7 has already had a turbulent life. The company wanted to get it right and even went back to the “drawing board” to adjust and enhance. This caused a considerable delay, but the new Q7 is ever closer to production as Audi shows the official image and reveals the specs.
The big story here is lighter weight, high-end technology, and efficiency. Audi’s largest crossover weighs 716.5 lbs less than the predecessor. The 3.0L TDI model returns, but with a curb weight of just 4,398 pounds. Audi says this is the lightest in its class. In turn, the Q7 with the 3.0L TFSI gasoline engine is 28% more fuel efficient, and the diesel can go 23% further on a gallon.
So, the Q7 will initially be available with the two 3-liter power plants. The 3.0 TDI will make 272 horsepower and 442.5 lb-ft of twist for an impressive 6.3 second 0-62 MPH sprint. The 3.0 TFSI will generate 333 horsepower and 324.5 lb-ft of torque for a slightly quicker 6.1 second 0-62 MPH time. 0-60 MPH acceleration may drop just under six seconds. Audi says the diesel version is capable of a crazy 41.3 US MPG average. This is a conversion from the European mileage cycle. The EPA combined figure will likely be lower, but nonetheless impressive.
The next big news is the introduction of the Q7 e-tron diesel-electric plug-in hybrid with Quattro all-wheel-drive. Yep, this is Audi’s first production vehicle that uses both diesel and electric motors for ultimate efficiency. Audi drew on its experience and successes in the Le Mans endurance race and WEC championships with the R18 e-tron race cars. This Q7 is said to average a mind-boggling 138.4 US MPG. This version will be available after the initial launch.
Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Audi Board Member for Technical Development says that the new Q7 is “a statement of our competence”.
What do you think about the new face of the Q7?
TFLcar spied Audi Q7 prototypes while hunting for the next Chevy Volt. Check it out here.
