Audi has launched an all-new generation of the Q7 in India. The flagship SUV has been introduced with the Premium Plus variant priced at Rs 72 lakh (Ex-showroom Delhi) and Technology pack priced at Rs 77.5 lakh (Ex-showroom Delhi) and will compete with similarly sized vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz GL and the BMW X5.
While it appears smaller compared to the old model, the new Q7 is lighter by around 300kg, thanks to the Volkswagen Group’s new MLB 2 platform. Unlike the old Q7 which features a puffy design overall, this new model is relatively sporty looking thanks to its sharper design cues. Audi has thoroughly updated the exterior with a new single-piece grille, Matrix LED-equipped headlamps, revised LED tail-lamps and new front and rear bumpers.
Like the new A4, the interior of the new Q7 follows the minimalist approach for the design. The clutter-free interior houses a retractable 7-inch screen, a newly designed centre console, new gear lever and multimedia controller. Standard features in here include electric leather seats, parking assist, four-zone climate control, a premium Bose audio system and an electric folding third row. Audi is also offering Matrix LED headlamps and their Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster that we have already seen in the new TT sports car.
The Q7 45TDI is powered by a 3-litre V6 engine producing 268bhp of power and around 600Nm of torque. The engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox with paddle shifters and, of course, Audi’s famed quattro all-wheel drive system.
Priced at Rs 72 lakh, the new Audi Q7 is currently being sold as a fully imported vehicle, however, Audi India has assured that local assembly of the SUV will commence sometime next year. Until then, the fully imported model will continue to compete with the Mercedes GL and the BMW X5.