All-new 2015 Audi Q7 makes world debut in Detroit
Bold styling for new seven-seater Audi Q7, the first in a new-generation of Audi SUVs
The all-new Audi Q7 has made its world debut at the Detroit Motor Show. The Q7 marks a fresh styling direction for all Audi SUVs, and sits on an all-new MLB 2 platform that will also underpin the next Porsche Cayenne and Bentley SUV.
The most striking change from its predecessor is the three-dimension single-frame grille, finished in silver on this S-line model. Lower, slimmer LED headlights and larger air intakes underneath give the front end a more aggressive look. Sharper, more squared off creases over the wheel arches, shoulder line and along the sills give it a more chiseled profile, while a more tapered roofline gives it a lower, sportier stance.
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At the rear a perfectly rectangular windscreen, blocky taillight clusters and squared-off twin tailpipes on this quattro four-wheel drive TFSI model continue the modern, architectural theme. Overall, however, the Q7 is actually smaller than its predecessor measuring 37mm shorter, 15mm narrower and the same height.
The interior has changed beyond all recognition, with the emphasis on a wide, narrow dash and a large, flat centre console housing the gear lever, infotainment touchpad and cup holders. In keeping with models lower down in the range a central display screen sprouts from the top of the dash, while the instrument cluster is now fully digital. Up to 41 per cent aluminium is used in its new MLB 2 platform, which means the Q7 weighs up to 325kg less than its predecessor, with positive knock of effects for fuel economy and handling. With the 3.0 TDi engine it weighs in at 1,995kg, reducing fuel consumption across the range by up to 23 per cent.
All models will get four-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic gearbox as standard, while engine choices for the UK are limited to just a 268bhp 3.0 TDI from launch, with a lower-powered 215bhp version following later in the year. Fuel consumption and CO2 emission for the 268bhp model stand at 47.8mpg and 153g/km, while 0-62mph takes 6.3 seconds.
The big news though is that a plug-in hybrid diesel e-tron model will arrive towards the end of 2015 combining a diesel engine with an electric motor for a total power out put of 368bhp and 700Nm of torque, plus an electric –only driving range of 35-miles. Claimed economy and emissions stand at 166.1mpg and 50g/km. We’ll bring you more details from the Detroit show, when Audi reveals the car officially. Prices are expected to start from around £45,000 when the Q7 order books open in Spring 2015, with first deliveries in the summer.
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