Audi’s second generation Q7 made its public debut at the 2015 Detroit Motor Show. While it may look all too familiar, this new model is now significantly lighter (by 325kg, in fact) and roughly 26 per cent more efficient than the outgoing model. While the Indian market is still awaiting the official introduction, Audi UK has released the pricing details on the new Q7.
According to the company, the new Q7 will carry a base price of £50,340 (Rs 46.87 lakh) for the SE model, rising to £53,835 (Rs 49.68 lakh) for the S line version. The seven seater model will reach its first UK buyers in August.
The new Q7’s exterior reflects Audi’s new design philosophy which now sees its cars moving away from rounded edges to sharper features. Inside, the steering, instrument panel and climate control system are all new while the screen has moved from being in the dashboard to the top of it and has now also become larger as well. It now uses Audi’s latest MMI system while offering support for Android Auto as well as Apple Car Play.
As for the drivetrain, the new Q7 is being offered with the 3.0-litre TDI which in higher spec models produces 272bhp and 600Nm of torque. It is available in a lower spec configuration where it produces 218bhp and 500Nm of torque. On the petrol front, there’s a 3.0-litre unit that produces 333bhp and 440Nm of torque. The India-bound models are expected to be offered with 3-litre petrol and diesel engine option to maintain optimum balance between performance and efficiency.
The first generation Q7 has been around since 2006 and up until recently, it managed to cement its position among the best-selling full-size luxury SUVs. However, it felt a little traditional due to the advent of new rivals from BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Naturally, this comprehensive makeover was due and Audi India is now hard at work readying the new Q7 for an official launch later this year.