The all-new 2016 Audi Q7 SUV made its debut on Monday at the 2015 Detroit Auto Show (NAIAS 2015) alongside the updated 2016 Audi Q3. Sporting an almost “elevated-wagon”-type profile, Audi’s significantly updated seven-seater has caused quite a stir, proving that in this case, less is more.
Watch Emme Hall’s interview with Anthony Foulk, product manager for the new Audi Q7, in the TFLcar “Almost Everything You Ever Wanted to Know” video here:
Despite smaller exterior dimensions and a lower profile, the 2016 Audi Q7 maintains the title of most spacious vehicle in its segment. This is accomplished by way of an elongated body and versatile second-row seating configuration. The latter, if desired, can be shuffled up to 4.3 inches fore and aft.
If the optional third row seat is selected, the two-place setup can be optioned as a pair of certified “Group 3” (booster – 48-76 pounds) child seats. ISOFIX child seat anchors are standard in all second- and third-row seating positions, and third-row ingress has also been enhanced, offering 14.8 inches of of entry.
Power is supplied courtesy of either a 3.0-L supercharged V-6, or a 3.0-L TDI engine, both channeled through the same eight-speed autmatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel-drive. 0-60 MPH times are expected to fall in the low-six-second range for both powertrains, with fuel economy numbers for the US cycle yet to be released.
Still, with the 2016 Audi Q7 boasting a curb weight that checks in at 4,398 pounds, up to 716 pounds lighter than the current model, improved fuel economy and drivability will undoubtedly be hallmark traits.
Watch the full debut of the 2016 Audi Q7 and the 2016 Audi Q3 from the 2015 Detroit Auto Show here.