New Audi Q7 India launch tomorrow

Audi will launch the next generation Q7 in India tomorrow. Based on a new platform, the Q7 in its new avatar is revamped both mechanically and cosmetically to take on the Mercedes-Benz GL, BMW X5 and the Range Rover Sport in the premium seven-seater segment.

The all-new Q7 weighs less than two tonnes, almost 350 kilograms less than the predecessor.  The SUV gets a comprehensive design update, with the new sleek headlamps, large hexagonal grille and aluminium inserts. The roof line is sloping towards the rear and the Q7 appears slightly shorter than before. At the back are the signature LED tail lamps with the sharp edges.

The inside is all new in terms of design. The interior theme changes with the body colour and gets aluminium inserts for the dashboard and door trim. The instrument cluster is a TFT screen, while the infotainment system continues to use the LCD screen on the dashboard. For safety, the SUV gets everything from traction control to nine airbags.

At the launch, Audi may offer just the 3.0-litre diesel engine in India in two different states of tune. The lower spec version is rated at 218bhp and 500Nm, while the more powerful unit produces 272bhp and 600Nm. Both the engines deliver power through the eight-speed automatic transmission to the famed Quattro all-wheel drive system.

The new model of the Q7 is expected to command a premium over the outgoing model. The SUV will be built in India and should be priced in the range of Rs 70 lakh to Rs 80 lakh.