Audi has once again elevated its flagship family SUV with a distinct design and enhanced technology. The updated exterior design, featuring new front and rear sections, emphasizes the SUV’s robust character, providing top-notch versatility and ample space for up to seven passengers. Introducing HD Matrix LED headlights with laser technology as an added high beam, the Audi Q7 now boasts digital daytime running lights with selectable light signatures for the first time. The digital OLED rear lights, offering four selectable designs, complete the comprehensive lighting options. With fresh wheels, colors, decorative inlays, and seats featuring contrasting stitching, the Q family’s most versatile SUV now offers an even greater degree of personalization. The starting price for the new Audi Q7 is 79,300 euros.
Evolving from a conceptual study to a thriving production model
The Audi Q7’s trajectory from a study to a successful production model commenced in 2003 when it debuted as the Audi Pikes Peak Quattro concept car at the North American International Motor Show. Originally conceived for driving on all roads and moderate off-road use, the current Q7, which has been captivating global customers for 18 years, has stayed true to its core values of design, technology, and functionality. Unveiled at the 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA), the first SUV from the brand with the four rings coincided with the 25th anniversary of the Quattro permanent four-wheel drive with Torsen center differential (40:60 front/rear torque distribution). Described as the new “superlative” in the SUV segment by Audi at the Q7’s launch, it seamlessly blends poise, sportiness, and versatility. Over the years, the Audi Q7 has established itself as a versatile all-rounder, combining high prestige with a broad range of applications.
With its imposing size and princely appearance, the first-generation Audi Q7, measuring over five meters in length, boasting a wheelbase of around three meters, accommodating seven people, and offering a luggage compartment volume of up to 2,035 liters, quickly became the flagship in the SUV segment. From 2008 to 2012, the Audi Q7 V12 TDI claimed the top spot with its impressive 500 PS and 1,000 Nm of torque, surpassing all competitors in the entire SUV segment. Produced at the Bratislava plant, the V12 TDI was also the first Audi to feature a ceramic braking system as standard.
The range of gasoline engines spanned from 272 to 350 PS, while the diesel options delivered up to 500 PS. From the commencement of production in 2006 to the conclusion of the first generation in 2015, more than 550,000 customers chose the first-generation Audi Q7.
Dynamic, roomy, and sophisticated exterior
Following the introduction of the second generation with all-wheel steering in 2015 and an initial product enhancement in 2019, the new Audi Q7 showcases its robust and elegant design through a comprehensive second upgrade in 2023. As the largest and most versatile SUV in the brand’s lineup, it embodies Audi’s contemporary design language, featuring a more minimalist form, clean surfaces, and a notably expansive volume that symbolizes versatility in every scenario.
The overhangs and wheelbase exhibit powerful and confident proportions, further accentuated by distinctive exterior colors and wheels. The unmistakable Audi Singleframe, now with an octagon design, captivates with vertical inlays, presenting a teardrop shape in the base exterior and forming an L in the S line exterior and for the SQ7 TFSI. This distinctive design instantly communicates the vehicle’s status as an Audi flagship, setting it apart from the A models. Moreover, the redefined interplay between the grille’s contours and the higher-positioned headlights introduces an entirely new front-end architecture, highlighting the Q7’s powerful and commanding presence. The vehicle’s self-assured demeanor is reinforced by the new prominent, color-framed air intakes, seamlessly integrated into the overall design.
Audi has systematically minimized decorative elements to achieve a clearer and more purist aesthetic. To distinguish between the base version and the S line exterior package at first glance, certain components of the front bumper, door trim, and diffuser in the base model are presented in contrasting colors, emphasizing the robust off-road appearance. All Audi Q7 engines boast an exhaust system with both functional and visually appealing tailpipes. Aligned more closely with the SQ7 TFSI, the S line exterior package stands out with its highly emphasized side air intakes in the front bumper, contributing to an even sportier look.
The Singleframe design is particularly notable for its independent color scheme. The optional Black and Black Plus optics packages create striking accents around the Audi Singleframe, side window trims, and front and rear bumpers. The redesigned headlights, featuring HD Matrix LED technology with lasers as an additional beam, along with the digital daytime running lights positioned on the upper horizontal edge, give the Q7 a more commanding expression. Paired with the digital OLED rear lights, introduced for the first time in the Q7, the model’s premium-class character is further heightened.
Customization at its best: Headlights and rear lights
The new Q7 comes standard with high-intensity LED headlights that illuminate the road, while Matrix LED headlights are available as an optional feature. Additionally, HD Matrix LED headlights with Audi laser light are offered, incorporating 24 LEDs and a high-power laser diode each. Recognizable by a blue ambient light integrated into the headlights, symbolizing the precision of laser technology, these lights become active at speeds exceeding 70 km/h (43.5 mph), significantly enhancing the high beam range. The top-tier headlights now boast digital daytime running light signatures, providing the Q7 with a distinctive appearance. Users can choose from four different light signatures through the MMI, contributing to the SUV’s characteristic look. Not only has the functionality of the headlights expanded, but their design has also been revamped. The elevated position of the daytime running lights imparts a broader and more expressive appearance to the new Audi Q7.
Another noteworthy addition is the introduction of largely digitalized OLED rear lights (OLED = organic light-emitting diode) as an optional upgrade, featuring four digital light signatures. Similar to the Audi A8, Q8, and Q5, these digital OLED rear lights include a proximity indication feature in tandem with the assistance systems. When other vehicles approach the stationary Audi Q7 from behind within a two-meter (6.6 ft) range, the control units automatically activate all digital OLED segments. Additional functionalities include dynamic turn signals and various coming home and leaving home sequences that correspond to each digital light signature.
The equipment range is enriched with fresh designs, color options, and wheel choices.
With the latest product enhancement, Audi has once again elevated the equipment offerings for the Q7. The seat trim seams in the base model now come standard in a contrasting gray color. The equipment range now includes nine decorative inlays to choose from. Introducing new options are Natural Elm Burl Silver for the base model, Matte Carbon Twill, and Matte Brushed Aluminum with linear embossing in silver for the Q7 equipped with the S line sport package and the SQ7 TFSI.
Three fresh metallic finishes, namely Sakhir Gold, Ascari Blue, and Chili Red, enhance the personalization options for customers seeking a sportier appearance. The wheel range has been expanded to include five new designs ranging from 20” to 22”, with options such as Black Metallic, Gray Silk Matte with glossy black inlays, or diamond-cut Black Metallic for 21-inch wheels and larger.
As part of the model update, Audi is broadening the range of apps, allowing passengers to directly access popular third-party apps like Spotify or Amazon Music. Regular software updates and a continually expanding array of apps contribute to the heightened individualization of the infotainment system. The third-generation modular infotainment toolkit (MIB 3) now includes a store with a market-specific app portfolio.
In terms of driver assistance systems, the surroundings display receives a notable upgrade. The Audi virtual cockpit now showcases a lane change warning, displays other road users (trucks, cars, and motorcycles), distance warning, intersection assist, and online traffic light info in stunning full HD quality. Alongside the app store and the enhanced surroundings display, the product upgrade also extends the standard equipment for the Q7. Standard features for the V6 combustion engines now encompass 19-inch alloy wheels, the gloss package with aluminum roof rails, a rearview camera with parking assist plus, and high beam assist. Additional features include the comfort center armrest, smartphone interface with an integrated app store, and Audi phone box.
Secure across all terrains: Suspension embodying Audi’s DNA
Exclusively characterized by Audi’s unique driving experience, the Q7 encapsulates the brand’s DNA in its handling. The Audi Q7’s driving dynamics are defined by five key attributes: balance, solidity, control, precision, and effortlessness. The integration of suspension, steering, drive, braking, and control systems collectively contributes to a consistently secure, confident, and comfortable driving journey. Even with the standard equipment featuring a well-balanced steel spring suspension, the Q7 ensures a reliable driving experience. As a towing vehicle, the Audi Q7 demonstrates reliability and safety, capable of towing up to 3.5 tons.
For enhanced options, electronically controlled air suspension with a continuously adaptive damping system, known as adaptive air suspension or adaptive air suspension sport (standard equipment on the Audi SQ7 TFSI), is available. This system allows the suspension to adjust the ride height by up to 90 millimeters, providing level control. During highway driving, the suspension automatically lowers by up to 30 millimeters, dependent on the current speed, and by 15 millimeters with adaptive air suspension sport. Off-road driving benefits from the “Lift” function in Audi drive select, allowing an increase in ground clearance by up to 60 millimeters at low speeds. Optional all-wheel steering (standard on the Audi SQ7 TFSI) enhances safety and comfort by turning the back wheels up to five degrees in the opposite direction to the front wheels at low speeds, reducing the turning radius and increasing manageability. At higher speeds, the back wheels turn in the same direction as the front wheels, providing improved comfort and stability. The advanced suspension package, featuring electromechanical active roll stabilization and all-wheel steering, is also available as an option for the V6 TFSI and TDI.
To further refine the Q7’s handling in everyday scenarios, such as parking maneuvers, the steering system has been optimized for increased ease. The innovative remote park assist plus utilizes the camera, radar, and ultrasonic sensors to effortlessly guide the Audi Q7 into tight parking spaces. This parking maneuver can be controlled through the myAudi app on the customer’s smartphone. When ready to leave the parking space, starting the engine in the myAudi app prompts the vehicle to maneuver out, ensuring a convenient exit for the driver.
Powerful and efficient: Drive systems
The lineup begins with the 45 TDI Quattro, featuring a three-litre diesel engine generating 170 kW (231 PS) of power and an impressive 500 Nm of torque across a plateau from 1,500 to 3,000 rpm. The Audi Q7 45 TDI accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.1 seconds and achieves a top speed of 226 km/h (140 mph). Following this, the 50 TDI Quattro offers a more robust version with 210 kW (286 PS) and 600 Nm of torque, enabling the large SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 241 km/h (150 mph). The Audi Q7 55 TFSI boasts a six-cylinder gasoline engine with three litres of displacement, direct fuel injection, and an output of 250 kW (340 PS). With a broad torque range from 1,370 to 4,500 rpm, this turbocharged gasoline engine propels the Audi Q7 from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds, reaching an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).
All V6 engines in the Audi Q7 exhibit a towing capacity of up to 3.5 tons, making them suitable for hauling campers, horse trailers, and similar loads. The engines are coupled with an eight-speed tiptronic transmission, Quattro permanent four-wheel drive, and a mild hybrid system. The mild hybrid system, comprising a lithium-ion battery and a belt alternator starter (BAS), powers the SUV’s 48V main electrical system, potentially improving fuel consumption by up to 0.5 litres per 100 kilometres in customer operation. Between 55 and 160 km/h (34 and 99 mph), the Q7 can coast with the engine off for up to 40 seconds when the driver releases the accelerator. After braking, the BAS swiftly and effortlessly restarts the six-cylinder. The start-stop functionality engages at speeds below 22 km/h (14 mph).
Commanding in all scenarios: the Audi SQ7 with a V8 TFSI gasoline engine
Embedded in the DNA of the new SQ7 TFSI is an inherent sportiness, showcased by a redesigned front spoiler and an expressive rear diffuser. The Singleframe grille stands out with vertical L-shaped inlays in a sporty color scheme, while the larger air intakes feature honeycomb grilles. Audi opts for a sporty aluminum look for the exterior mirror housings, Singleframe inlays, and the edging of the side air intakes. This color scheme is also applied to the inlay in the side skirt, and customers can choose the Black and Black Plus optics packages for further customization.
As part of the product upgrade, the SQ7 TFSI is now powered by the established 4.0 TFSI engine, delivering 373 kW (507 PS) and 770 Nm of torque through a fast-shifting eight-speed tiptronic and quattro permanent all-wheel drive. Accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds, the SQ7 TFSI achieves an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). The 4.0 TFSI engine provides a distinctive sporty and sonorous sound with its firing order of 1-3-7-2-6-5-4-8.
The cylinder on demand system deactivates cylinders 2, 3, 5, and 8 in the upper gears under low to medium loads, enhancing efficiency. The transition between cylinder activation and deactivation is seamless, virtually unnoticed by the driver. The optional advanced suspension package includes the sport differential, utilizing two multi-disc clutches to distribute torque between the rear wheels during high-speed cornering, improving handling and precision. The package also features electromechanical active roll stabilization (eAWS), minimizing body movements on uneven roads and enhancing steering response during sporty driving.
Equipped with a 48-volt super capacitor, the eAWS ensures efficient power supply to the two electric motors, each capable of 1.5 kW maximum power. The SQ7 TFSI comes standard with 20-inch wheels and 285/45 tires, with optional 21- and 22-inch wheels available. The front brake discs have a diameter of 400 millimeters, while the rear measures 350 millimeters, complemented by black or optionally red brake calipers on the front axle bearing the distinctive S logo.
Versatile and spacious: Interior
Whether in the five- or seven-seat configurations, both the Audi Q7 and SQ7 TFSI seamlessly blend luxury with everyday practicality. The ample length, headroom, and elbowroom in both the front and rear areas create an atmosphere of premium spaciousness. The five-seat version’s luggage compartment, depending on the rear backrests’ position, ranges from 867 liters (with backrests up) to an impressive 1,993 liters (with backrests down). Standard with an electrically powered tailgate, it can also be activated by a foot gesture for added convenience. Audi offers the optional rear seat plus, allowing for individual adjustment of seat length and back angle for all three seats. This feature ensures sufficient space for three child seats at all times and includes a third row with two electrically folding seats.
2024 Audi Q7 Price
The pricing for the 45 TDI Quattro begins at 79,300 euros, while the 50 TDI Quattro is priced at 82,300 euros. The 55 TFSI Quattro is available at a price of 82,500 euros. For the sporty SQ7 TFSI, prices start at 112,000 euros.