The next generation of the three-row Q7 ditches the awkwardness and ups the ante as one of the final Audis to debut with combustion engines
by Josh Byrnes
March 24, 2024 at 14:14
Luxury mid-sized SUVs are a cash-milking business, and demand is only growing. Mercedes-Benz offers the GLE, BMW has the X5, and now Audi is poised to recapture interest with an all-new Q7.
As reported by our own Michael Gauthier, the Q7 you see here was initially supposed to be the ‘Q9’, a larger 3-row offering in development. However, reliable sources now indicate this is not the case, with spy shots confirming it’s similarly sized to the outgoing car.
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Sighted both in standard and high-performance SQ7 guise, we’ve decoded that pesky test mule camouflage, offering you, the reader, the most accurate illustrated preview anywhere to date.
A Cleaner Look
Great news! The awkward proportions of the outgoing car have been ditched in favor of a balanced stance and a refreshingly clean aesthetic. Audi designers have styled it to mirror the look of the upcoming Q3, featuring a similar ‘Singleframe’ grille and split-level matrix-LED headlights.
The curvaceously new bodywork is complemented by pronounced shoulder lines, flush-set door handles, and a clamshell hood. Boomerang-style OLED tail lamps are connected by a full-width lightbar to enhance aesthetic appeal. Furthermore, the high-performing SQ7 variant builds upon this with huge wheels, dynamic trim elements and quad exhausts.
A High-tech Outlook
Inside, the Q7 will offer a cabin with abundant opulence, augmented by increased dimensions over the Q7, providing ample room for all passengers and cargo. It will be a tech fest, too. Taking cues from Audi’s latest models such as the Q6 e-tron, anticipate the next Q7 to feature an expansive 11.9-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch infotainment system running Android Automotive dominating the dashboard.
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Passengers are treated to a 10.9-inch front display with shutter technology to prevent driver distraction. Other goodies on the cards include an augmented reality head-up display, a Virtual Reality (VR) assistant, and a premium 22-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system.
Efficient Propulsion
The Q7 will offer various powertrain options to suit diverse preferences. Conjecture suggests that six-cylinder gasoline and diesel units with 48-volt mild hybrid technology will be available. However, performance metrics for these remain a closely guarded secret.
A plug-in hybrid variant will also be a shoo-in, offering an electric-only range tipped to exceed 62 miles (100 km) on the WLTP cycle. Enthusiasts can also expect a high-performance SQ7 version alongside Audi’s signature Quattro all-wheel-drive system and air suspension for an enjoyable driving experience.
Rivals and Reveal
Competing against a variety of premium mid-size SUVs, including the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Cadillac XT6 and the Range Rover Sport, the new Q7 will need to be a standout if it wants to strengthen its share of the fiercely contested luxury SUV segment.
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We anticipate the Audi Q7 to make an official appearance towards the end of this year or early 2025 as a 2026 model-year offering.
Do you think the new Q7 is bold enough to win buyers over the competition? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Note: This story contains illustrations that are not affiliated with Audi.
