All you need to know about the new Audi Q7

Audi launched the new generation Q7 in India on December 10. The seven-seater luxury SUV competes with the likes of the Mercedes GL, Volvo XC 90 and BMW X5, with a price tag starting at Rs 72 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi and Mumbai).

The Audi Q7 launched in India is based on the new MQB platform, which has reduced the weight of the SUV by 325 kilograms compared to its predecessor. The SUV uses the new Audi design philosophy with sharp angular lines for the headlamp, large hexagonal grille and matte silver inserts at the front. Overall, the SUV looks much better than the first generation model that was on sale with minimum updates since 2006. The car also uses the Matrix headlamps with 30 individual light emitting diodes and three reflectors.

Inside, the Q7 uses the virtual cockpit for multimedia interface. However, unlike in the TT coupe, Audi has retained the LCD screen on the dashboard in case the passenger has to operate the system. The infotainment system uses the BOSE music player that has 19 speakers and pairs with all the devices. The rest of the features list includes four zone automatic air conditioners, navigation and auto park technology with 360 degree view.

The interior design is similar to Audi’s flagship sedan, the A8. Upper part of the dashboard is made from brushed aluminium, while the lower section has a walnut terra brow. Rest of the trim is dependent upon the exterior body colour. The car has three rows of seating and the boot space expandable up to 1,955 litres after folding the second row in 35:30:35 ratio.

Under the hood is the Audi’s 3.0-litre TDI engine tuned to produce 249bhp and 300Nm of torque. The car comes with the 45 TDI badge under Audi’s new nomenclature and can get to 100kmph from standstill in 7.1 seconds. Weight reduction has improved the fuel efficiency – the ARAI rating of the new Q7 is 14.75 kmpl. The car uses an eight-speed automatic tiptronic transmission mated to the full time all-wheel drive system.

The Q7 is available in India in two variants – the base variant named, Premium Plus, priced at Rs 72 lakh and the top-end named, Technology, priced at Rs 77.50 lakh. Both the vehicles are mechanically the same with the 45 TDI badge and the difference in pricing is related to the features list.