Audi recently updated what is now the oldest SUV in its stable, the Q7.
Apart from the not-so-subtle changes to the exterior, Audi has revised the interior completely. The Q7 now features the same setup as the all-new Q8 and that’s a very good thing. Though some struggle with the dual touch-screen interface, there’s no denying that it looks and feels absolutely magnificent.
The Q7 retains its seven seat layout, making it a more practical offering than the Q8.
The current range of engines will likely be carried over, but the one we’re interested in can be found underneath the bonnet of the SQ7. This biturbo V8 diesel delivers 320kW and 900Nm of torque. Audi says it will sprint to 100km/h in less than five seconds.
The 48-volt electrical subsystem feeds an electrically powered compressor (EPC) that assists the two turbochargers whenever the load demand from the accelerator is high while the available energy in the exhaust gas is still low. In this case, it supplies the fresh air, which is important for combustion.
A quick-shifting eight-speed tiptronic transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive is standard. You also get S-specific adaptive sport air suspension, progressive steering, and rear-wheel steering. The system turns the rear wheels by up to five degrees in the opposite direction at low speed to maximise manoeuvrability, and at higher speeds turns them slightly in the same direction to promote stability.
The updated Q7 is scheduled to arrive in South Africa early in 2020.