Audi presented the SQ7 and the SQ8 with new TFSI engines. The brand is thus responding to the worldwide trend toward sporty gasoline engines in the high-performance SUV segment. The Audi SQ7 and SQ8 feature numerous high-tech suspension components and offer new connectivity and assistance functions. They will launch on the European markets beginning in autumn 2020.

With its output of 373 kW (507 PS) and 770 Nm (567.9 lb-ft) of torque, the 4.0 TFSI gasoline engine propels the large Audi SQ7 and SQ8 extremely powerfully. The sprint from zero to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) takes just 4.1 seconds; acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h (49.7 to 74.6 mph) just 3.8 seconds. Top speed is electronically governed at 250 km/h (155.3 mph). Depending on the equipment chosen, the SQ7 consumes between 12.1 and 12.0 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (19.4 - 19.6 US mpg), corresponding to CO2 emissions of 278 to 276 grams per kilometer (447.4- 444.2 g/mi). For the SQ8, these figures are also 12.1 to 12.0 liters (19.4 - 19.6 US mpg) and 276 to 275 grams CO2 (444.2 - 442.6 g/mi)).

The biturbo V8 is a high-tech engine. The cylinder on demand (COD) system temporarily deactivates four cylinders during moderate driving, thus reducing fuel consumption. The two twin-scroll turbochargers reduce backpressure and optimize gas exchange for improved filling of the combustion chambers. They are located in the 90-degree V of the cylinder banks. This layout results in short gas paths and spontaneous response even at low rpm. In the exhaust system, two mode-controlled actuators modulate the eight-cylinder sound. Oscillating coils in the active engine mounts minimize the transmission of vibrations to the body by generating counterphase vibrations. These overlap the engine vibrations and largely eliminate them.

For sporty movement: Power transmission and suspension

An eight-speed tiptronic and quattro permanent all-wheel drive transfer the superior power of the 4.0 TFSI to the road. The Audi SQ7 and SQ8 come standard with two sporty chassis components: the adaptive air suspension sport with controlled dampers and all-wheel steering. At low speeds, the latter turns the rear wheels by as much as 5 degrees in the opposite direction, which improves agility and reduces the turning circle. At speeds of 60 km/h (37.3 mph) and above, they turn slightly in the same direction for improved stability at higher speeds and during fast changes of direction.

The advanced suspension package includes another highly effective module: electromechanical active roll stabilization (eAWS). When driving straight ahead, the system, which actuates the stabilizers via electric motors, provides for a high level of ride comfort. It also reduces roll during fast cornering. This package also includes the sport differential, which shifts torque between the rear wheels as needed during fast cornering. Handling is even more agile and precise as a result.

The electronic chassis platform (ECP) is the central controller that interconnects most of the controlled chassis systems. Drivers experience this close interaction as maximum handling precision. They can choose between seven driver profiles in the Audi drive select system: comfort, auto, dynamic, efficiency, allroad, offroad and individual.

The Audi SQ7 comes standard with 20-inch wheels, with wheels up to 22 inches optionally available. With the Audi SQ8, the standard size is 21 inches with 22- and 23-inch wheels optional. Both cars feature front brake discs measuring 400 millimeters (15.7 in) in diameter. Their black calipers sport S badges. Audi also offers particularly powerful and durable carbon fiber ceramic discs for the front and rear axles. In this case, the brake calipers are painted anthracite gray. New features in infotainment, connectivity and driver assist systems round out the two models' technology package. They make driving and parking even easier, more pleasant and more comfortable.

From EUR 93,287.40: Market launch begins in autumn 2020

The Audi SQ7 and Audi SQ8 with the 4.0 TFSI will launch on European markets beginning in autumn 2020. List prices in Germany are 93,287.40 and 101,085.72 euros, respectively.

In the SUV segment, Audi is heading into the 2022 model year with the edition models Audi Q7 and Q8 competition plus. Optional equipment for the exterior and interior add even more appeal to the biggest members of the Q family. The appearance package black plus makes the S line exterior package stand out even more with its dynamic look for the Audi Q7 as well as the Q8. The black Singlegrame grille including the gills and frame as well as black Audi rings and clips really set the front of these two edition models apart.

A new carbon package, already available as an option for the Audi Q7, with carbon mirror housing and door inlays, highlight the sporty nature of these edition models. For the Audi Q8, the Singleframe mask is also glossy black. Both vehicles are delivered on 21" aluminum wheels. The Audi Q7 can be ordered with optional 22" wheels and the Q8 even with 23" wheels. While the Audi Q7 features black decorative elements in the new "S line competition plus" line, the carbon bumper of the Audi Q8 really highlights the sporty nature of the SUV. Both edition models are equipped with red brake calipers and welcome passengers with an LED projection of the S logo.

Dark tones, specific color accents such as optional red decorative stitching on the seats and steering wheel and the carbon decorative inlays that are familiar from the S-Models also characterize the interior of the new Audi Q7 and Q8 edition models. This is complemented by a carbon insert for the shifter.

Audi Q7 and Q8 competition plus will be available to order on the German market in June from 78,170 euros for the Q7 and 84,500 euros for the Q8. Delivery will begin in late summer 2021.

Audi has once again upgraded its flagship family SUV with a clear design and even better technology. The fresh exterior design with new front and rear sections underscores the powerful character of the SUV, which offers first-class versatility and generous space for up to seven passengers. For the first time in a Q7, the HD Matrix LED headlights with laser as an additional high beam feature digital daytime running lights with selectable light signatures. Digital OLED rear lights with four selectable rear light designs complete the light offering. New wheels, colors, decorative inlays, and seats with contrasting stitching lend the Q family's most versatile SUV an even higher level of customizability. The new Audi Q7 starts at 79,300 euros.

From a study to a successful production model

The Audi Q7's journey of success began in 2003 as a concept car called the Audi Pikes Peak quattro at the North American International Motor Show. Conceived as a vehicle suitable driving on all roads and moderate off-road use, the current Q7 - which has been delighting customers worldwide for 18 years - remains true to its virtues of design, technology, and functionality. The first SUV from the brand with the four rings was unveiled to the public at the 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA), just in time for the 25th anniversary of the quattro permanent four-wheel drive with Torsen center differential (40:60 front/rear torque distribution). The new "superlative" in the SUV segment, as Audi put it at the launch of the Q7, combines poise, sportiness, and versatility. Since its launch, the Audi Q7 is seen as an all-rounder that combines high prestige with a wide range of applications.

Its size is imposing, its appearance princely: With a length of more than five meters (16 ft), a wheelbase of around three meters (10 ft), room for seven people, and a luggage compartment volume of up to 2,035 liters, the first generation of the Q7 immediately became the flagship in the SUV segment. From 2008 to 2012, the Q7 V12 TDI took over the top spot - with its 500 PS and 1,000 Nm of torque, it surpassed all competitors across the entire SUV segment. The V12 TDI, built at the Bratislava plant, was also the first Audi to roll off the line with a ceramic braking system as standard.

The gasoline engines on offer ranged from 272 to 350 PS, while the diesels had an output of up to 500 PS. From the start of production in 2006 to the end of production of the first generation in 2015, more than 550,000 customers opted for a first-generation Q7.

Powerful, spacious, elegant: Exterior

Following the launch of the second generation with all-wheel steering in 2015 and an initial product upgrade in 2019, the new Audi Q7 impressively shows its robust and elegant design with a second comprehensive upgrade in 2024. The largest and most versatile SUV in the lineup of the brand with the four rings features Audi's modern design language. With its even more minimalist form, clean surfaces, and exceptionally large volume, the Q7 stands for variability in every situation.

The overhangs and wheelbase demonstrate powerful and confident proportions that are further emphasized by distinctive exterior colors and wheels. The unmistakably upright Audi Singleframe with an octagon design now impresses with vertical inlays. They feature a teardrop shape in the base exterior and come in the shape of an L in the S line exterior, as well as for the SQ7 TFSI. This makes it clear at first glance that the vehicle is an Audi top model and clearly differentiates it from the A models. In addition, the new interplay between the grille's contours and the headlights, now positioned higher, makes for a completely new front-end architecture that clearly emphasizes the powerful and more present appearance of the new Q7. The Q7's self-confident appearance is underscored by the new prominent, color-framed air intakes, which are clearly integrated into the vehicle's basic architecture.

Audi has systematically reduced the decorative elements to give the vehicle an even clearer and more purist look. In order to distinguish the base version and S line exterior package at first glance, parts of the front bumper, door trim, and diffuser in the base model come in contrasting colors that underline the robust off-road look. All Audi Q7 engines feature an exhaust system with functional, visually appealing tailpipes. Aligned even more closely with the SQ7 TFSI, the S line exterior package stands out with its strongly accentuated side air intakes in the front bumper, giving the vehicle an even sportier appearance.

The Singleframe is sure to impress with its independent color scheme. The optionally available Black and Black Plus optics packages set striking accents in the exterior around the Audi Singleframe, the trim on the side windows, and the front and rear bumpers. The newly designed headlights featuring HD Matrix LED technology with lasers as an additional beam light as well as the digital daytime running lights positioned on the upper horizontal edge give the Q7 an even more powerful expression. In combination with the digital OLED rear lights, which are available for the Q7 for the first time, the premium-class character of the model becomes even clearer.

Customizability at its best: Headlights and rear lights

High-intensity LED headlights light up the road in the Q7 as standard; Matrix LED headlights are available as an option. HD Matrix LED headlights with the Audi laser light are also available. They work with 24 LEDs and a high-power laser diode each and are immediately recognizable via a blue ambient light incorporated into the headlights that symbolizes the precision of laser technology. The laser light becomes active above 70 km/h (43.5 mph) and significantly increases the high beam range. New for the top-of-the-range headlights are digital daytime running light signatures. They give the Q7 its characteristic and unmistakable appearance by allowing the user to select one of four various light signatures via the MMI. However, not just the headlights' extended range of functions is new, so is their design. The higher position of the daytime running lights gives the Q7 a wider appearance and more expressiveness. For the first time, the Q7 also features largely digitalized OLED rear lights (OLED = organic light emitting diode) as an optional extra, which also feature four digital light signatures.

In addition - as in the Audi A8, Q8, and Q5 - the digital OLED rear lights have a proximity indication feature in conjunction with the assistance systems: When other road users approach the stationary Q7 from behind to within two meters (6.6 ft), the control units automatically activate all of the digital OLED segments. Additional functions include dynamic turn signals as well as various coming home and leaving home sequences that match each digital light signature.

New decors, colors, and wheels expand the equipment range

With the latest product upgrade, Audi has once again refined the equipment range for the Q7. The seams on the seat trim in the base model now come standard and in a contrasting gray color. There are also nine decorative inlays available to choose from. New in the equipment range: Natural Elm Burl Silver for the base model, Matte Carbon Twill, and Matte Brushed Aluminum with linear embossing in silver for the Q7 with the S line sport package, as well as for the SQ7 TFSI.

Three new finishes are available that allow customers to further personalize the Q7. For a particularly sporty appearance, the range of metallic finishes now includes Sakhir Gold, Ascari Blue, and Chili Red. But customers can look forward to more new features in more than just finishes: The wheel range offers a choice of five new 20" to 22" wheel designs. Black Metallic, Gray Silk Matte with glossy black inlays or diamond-cut Black Metallic are available for 21-inch wheels and larger.

As part of the model update, Audi is also expanding the range of apps: For the first time, passengers can directly use popular apps from third-party providers (for example Spotify or Amazon music). Regular software updates and a constantly expanding range of apps make for even greater individualization of the infotainment system. A store with a market-specific app portfolio expands the third-generation modular infotainment toolkit (MIB 3).

In terms of driver assistance systems, the surroundings display in particular is receiving an upgrade. Among other things, the Audi virtual cockpit displays a lane change warning, other road users (trucks, cars, and motorcycles), distance warning, intersection assist, and traffic light info online in stunning full HD quality. In addition to the store for apps and the new surroundings display, the product upgrade also expands the standard equipment for the Q7 - standard features for the V6 combustion engines now include 19-inch alloy wheels, the gloss package with aluminum roof rails, a rearview camera with parking assist plus, and high beam assist. Other features include the comfort center armrest, smartphone interface with integrated store for apps, and Audi phone box.

Safe on every surface: Suspension with Audi's DNA

Only an Audi drives like an Audi: This is how the brand with the four rings sums up the DNA of an Audi's driving characteristics, and it's no less true for the Q7. Five characteristics define the Q7's handling: balanced, solid, controlled, precise, and effortless. The suspension, steering, drive and braking and control systems all play a key role in creating a reliably safe, confident, and comfortable driving experience. Even the standard equipment, with its balanced steel spring suspension, ensures a consistent driving experience in the Q7. The Q7 is also reliable and safe as a towing vehicle - it can tow up to 3.5 tons.

Electronically controlled air suspension with a continuously adaptive damping system - adaptive air suspension or adaptive air suspension sport (standard equipment on the SQ7 TFSI - are available as optional equipment. Depending on the driver's preferences and the driving situation, the suspension adjusts the ride height by up to 90 millimeters while also offering level control. On the highway, the suspension lowers automatically by up to 30 millimeters, depending on the current speed, and by 15 millimeters with adaptive air suspension sport. During off-road driving, the "Lift" function in Audi drive select can be used to increase the ground clearance by up to 60 millimeters at low speeds. In addition, optional all-wheel steering (standard equipment on the SQ7 TFSI) ensures an increased level of safety and comfort. At low speeds, the back wheels turn up to five degrees in the opposite direction to the front wheels. This reduces the turning radius by up to one meter (3.3 ft) and increases manageability. At the same time, the driver feels more comfort and stability at higher speeds because the back wheels turn in the same direction as the front wheels. The advanced suspension package, with electromechanical active roll stabilization and all-wheel steering, is also available as an option for the V6 TFSI and TDI. To improve the Q7's handling in everyday situations such as maneuvering in parking lots, parking garages, and the garage at home, the steering system was optimized for greater ease.

Another helpful feature is remote park assist plus: It uses the camera in combination with the radar and ultrasonic sensors to easily maneuver the Audi Q7 into tight parking spaces. Customers can control the parking maneuver using the myAudi app on their smartphone. When they're ready to leave the parking space, customers can start the engine in the myAudi app, at which point the vehicle maneuvers out so they can enter comfortably.

Efficient and powerful: Drive systems

The range opens with the 45 TDI quattro, a three-liter diesel engine that has 170 kW (231 PS) of output and delivers an impressive 500 Nm of torque, which extends over a plateau between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm. From a standing start, the Audi Q7 45 TDI in 7.1 seconds. It has a top speed of 226 km/h (140 mph). This engine is followed by the 50 TDI quattro3, a more powerful version with 210 kW (286 PS) and 600 Nm of torque. This means the large SUV accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 241 km/h (150 mph). The Audi Q7 55 TFSI4 features a six-cylinder gasoline engine with three liters of displacement and direct fuel injection that delivers 250 kW (340 PS). It delivers a maximum torque of 500 Nm in a broad rev range from 1,370 to 4,500 rpm. With its turbocharged gasoline engine, the Audi Q7 accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.6 seconds. It reaches its electronically governed top speed at 250 km/h (155 mph).

All V6 engines in the Audi Q7 boast a towing capacity of up to 3.5 tons. This is more than enough to tow campers, horse trailers, and the like. All engines work together with an eight-speed tiptronic, quattro permanent four-wheel drive, and the mild hybrid system, which can improve fuel-consumption by up to 0.5 liters per 100 kilometers in customer operation. Its key components are a lithium-ion battery and a belt alternator starter (BAS) that supplies power to the SUV's 48V main electrical system. 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 takes their foot off the gas. After braking, the BAS restarts the six-cylinder quickly and effortlessly. The start-stop range starts below 22 km/h (14 mph).

Dominant in every situation: the Audi SQ7 with a V8 TFSI gas engine

Sportiness is deeply rooted in the genes of the new Audi SQ7 TFSI - it impresses with a redesigned spoiler at the front and an expressive diffuser at the rear. The Singleframe stands out with vertical L-shaped inlays in a sporty color scheme. The larger air intakes feature honeycomb grilles across their surface. Characteristically, Audi opts for a sporty aluminum look for the exterior mirror housings, the inlays in the Singleframe and the edging of the side air intakes. The same color scheme is also used for the inlay in the side skirt. The Black and Black plus optics packages can also be ordered for the SQ7 TFSI.

As part of the product upgrade, the Audi SQ7 TFSI now runs on the established 4.0 TFSI with 373 kW (507 PS) and 770 Nm of torque with fast-shifting eight-speed tiptronic and quattro permanent all-wheel drive. With this engine, the SQ7 TFSI accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.1 seconds, with an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). With its firing order of 1-3-7-2-6-5-4-8, the 4.0 TFSI provides a distinctive sporty and sonorous sound.

At low to medium loads- from 160 to 250 Nm - and engine speeds between 950 and 2,500 rpm with a maximum torque requirement of 145 Nm the cylinder on demand system deactivates cylinders 2, 3, 5, and 8 in the upper gears by shutting off injection and ignition and closing the intake and exhaust valves. The switching process takes just milliseconds and goes virtually unnoticed by the driver. In four-cylinder mode, the operating points in the active cylinders shift to higher load, which boosts thermal efficiency, while the deactivated cylinders operate, essentially with no losses, like gas springs. When the driver presses the accelerator pedal, the deactivated cylinders reactivate immediately. To achieve the sporty sound, there is an exhaust valve in the two outer tailpipes that modulates the sound depending on load and engine speed.

For an optimal driving experience, a vehicle requires not only first-class engines, but also outstanding suspension components. With the optional advanced suspension package, customers also benefit from the sport differential. When cornering at high speed, it uses two multi-disc clutches to shift the torque between the rear wheels, giving the wheel on the outside of the curve, which has the better grip, the greater share. Known as torque vectoring, this makes handling even more effortless and precise. When turning or accelerating in a curve, the large sport SUV coupé is literally pressed into the curve, minimizing the tendency to understeer. The second component in the package is electromechanical active roll stabilization (eAWS). Here, both axles are equipped with a compact electric motor coupled to a transmission. It splits the stabilizer into two halves. When driving straight, it allows them to work largely independently of each other, which reduces body movements on uneven roads. In sporty driving, however, the electric motor causes the two halves to rotate in opposite directions, thus making them work as a unit. This means the car leans into the curve significantly less, and the steering response becomes more precise.

The eAWS is powered by a 48-volt super capacitor. The compact, lightweight energy storage unit, which can absorb and release high current in a very short time, supplies the two electric motors with a maximum power of 1.5 kW each.

The Audi SQ7 TFSI rolls off the production line with 20-inch wheels and 285/45 tires as standard. Alternatively, other 21- and 22-inch wheels are on offer. The brake discs on the front axle have a diameter of 400 millimeters; on the rear axle they measure 350 millimeters. The black brake calipers, which come optionally in red, and, on the front axle, bear the S logo that defines Audi's look.

Versatile and spacious: Interior

Both the five- and seven-seat versions of the Audi Q7 and SQ7 TFSI combine high prestige with everyday practicality. With their generous length, headroom, and elbowroom in both the front and back, both vehicles offer a first-class, airily spacious atmosphere. Depending on the position of the rear backrests, the luggage compartment in the five-seat version offers a volume of between 867 liters (backrests up) and 1,993 liters (backrests down). The tailgate is electrically powered as standard and can optionally be triggered by a foot gesture. Audi also offers the optional rear seat plus. This feature allows the length and back angle of all three seats to be individually adjusted, ensures enough space for three child seats at all times, and boasts a third row of two electrically folding seats.

The best Q7 of all times, available from 79,300 euros

The market launch of the Audi Q7 - with its revised design, innovative lighting technology, and more extensive range of equipment - will be in the first quarter of 2024. Prices for the 45 TDI quattro start at 79,300 euros, while the 50 TDI quattro3 costs 82,300 euros. The price for the 55 TFSI quattro4 is 82,500 euros. The sporty SQ7 TFSI starts at 112.000 euros.

Audi gives the electrified Q7 and Q8 a facelift with updated battery technology and more efficient driving modes. The exterior design was also reworked as part of the model upgrade and features new front and rear aprons to highlight the strong character of the two models. For the first time, both plug-in hybrids are available with all-wheel steering for an increased degree of safety and comfort. Electromechanical active roll stabilization (eAWS) guarantees even more dynamic handling. Prices start at 85,500 euros (Q7 55 TFSI e) and 92,900 euros (Q8 55 TFSI e).

Larger battery, more power, longer range

At the heart of both plug-in hybrids is a three-liter six-cylinder Otto engine with 250 kW (340 PS) of output, a compact electric motor (PSM) with a maximum output of 130 kW and 460 Nm of torque, and a new, more powerful, liquid-cooled lithium battery located under the floor of the trunk. The battery's energy is concentrated in 17 cells with 70 Ah each, called "stacks". Six stacks form one unit, which are connected in series. This compact design inside the battery housing eliminates the need for an additional module housing, resulting in higher power density. The design achieves a maximum capacity of 25.9 kWh (gross; 22 kWh net) at 370 volts. The increased capacity results in an all-electric range of up to 90 kilometers in urban areas under the WLTP EAER City standard: this is equivalent to a combined electric range of up to 85 km under the WLTP EAER standard.

The maximum system output of both models with the 55 TFSI e quattro starts at 290 kW (394 PS) and a maximum system torque of 600 Nm thanks to the electric motor's modified design.

With both engines working in tandem, the electrified Q7 and Q8 accelerate to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds. Higher in the range is the 60 TFSI e quattro, which also benefits from a newly designed electric motor with up to 360 kW (490 PS) of system output and up to 700 Nm of torque.

In this configuration, the Q7 and the Q8 go from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds. All variants have an electronically limited top speed of 240 km/h, with an all-electric top speed of 135 km/h. The battery charges up to 7.4 kW and reaches 100 percent in approximately three hours and 45 minutes when charged at top power. Customers who book the Audi charging service have access to approximately 630,000 charging points in 29 European countries, including the Audi charging hubs in Nuremberg, Zurich, Berlin, Salzburg, Munich, and Frankfurt (additional sites will follow). Customers can conveniently charge with Audi and many other providers with a single card.

In many countries and cities, plug-in hybrid owners enjoy tax incentives or local transportation benefits, such as free parking or the right to use bus lanes. In Germany, both plug-in hybrid models benefit from the company car regulation for electric cars, according to which they are only taxed at a flat rate of 0.5 percent of their gross list price.

Maximum efficiency: operating strategy

Thanks to the product upgrade, customers can start their partially electric Q7 or Q8 in fully electric EV mode or hybrid mode. Once selected via the MMI, the desired mode remains active until manually changed. The fully electric EV mode has been fine-tuned so that only battery-powered propulsion is used even when the accelerator pedal is fully depressed.

Hybrid mode uses two operating modes: auto and hold. In auto mode, the predictive operating strategy automatically activates when navigation is started in the standard MMI navigation plus. Acceleration is primarily provided by the TFSI engine, supported as required by the electric motor. At low engine speeds, the electric drive now bridges the fraction of a second that the turbocharger needs to build up the pressure even more powerfully, thanks to the increased torque from the product upgrade so that the drive system responds spontaneously. Put simply, the predictive operating strategy works by driving as far as possible on electric power and using up the existing battery charge by the time the driver reaches the destination.

In hold mode, the existing battery charge is kept at its current level with only minimum fluctuations. This is achieved by recovering braking energy through a process known as recuperation and by shifting the load point through targeted interventions in the 3.0 TFSI management system. As a result, after a conventionally driven long-haul route, customers can now drive to their urban destination on all-electric power, with zero emissions and virtually no noise.

As a new feature included with the product upgrade for the Q7 TFSI e and Q8 TFSI e, the battery recharges intelligently and only above speeds of approximately 65 km/h when in charge mode. This maximizes efficiency and ensures high levels of electric driving in the city and in stop-and-go traffic. What's more, in charge mode, the 3.0 TFSI is no longer constantly used to charge the battery; instead, recuperation alone is used. Charge mode ends when the battery has recharged to its maximum capacity at 75 percent to conserve the battery and increase efficiency.

The moments when the driver takes their foot off the accelerator pedal are crucial for the efficiency of the plug-in hybrid Q7 and Q8. The operating strategy switches to predictive efficiency assist (PEA) in these situations. In addition to navigation data, this driver assistance system uses the distance to the vehicle in front to decide between coasting with the TFSI switched off and recuperation, i.e., recovering kinetic energy and converting it into electrical energy. In thrust phases, the Q7 and Q8 TFSI e can recover up to 25 kW of power and feed it back into the lithium-ion battery.

Operating as a generator, the electric motor performs all light to moderate braking up to 0.3 g, corresponding to more than 90 percent of all deceleration events in everyday driving. The hydraulic wheel brakes only need to be used for heavy braking. The hybrid SUVs achieve up to 80 kW of recuperation power during braking.

When the optional adaptive cruise assist with radar cruise control is active, the PEA helps with deceleration and fuel-saving acceleration. If turned off, the Audi virtual cockpit or optional head-up display indicates to the driver when they should take their foot off the right pedal. Detail icons such as intersections, city signs, or vehicles ahead illustrate the reason for the reduction in speed.

Optimized equipment range to meet every need

High-intensity LED headlights light up the road as standard; Matrix LED headlights are available as an option. Innovative HD Matrix LED headlights with Audi laser light as an additional high beam for a significantly increased beam range are available as a further option. New for the top-of-the-range headlights are digital daytime running light signatures. They give the partially electric Q7 and Q8 a characteristic and unmistakable appearance, allowing the user to select one of four individual light signatures via the MMI. For the first time, the vehicles also come optionally with largely digitalized OLED rear lights, which also have digital light signatures. Moreover, the digital OLED rear lights feature proximity indication in conjunction with the assistance systems.

Like the product upgrade for the base versions, the electrified Q7 and Q8 have a significantly upgraded equipment range. In addition to contrasting colors for the seat stitching, customers can choose from nine decorative inlays and three new finishes. The wheel range includes five new designs for sizes ranging from 21" to 23" (depending on the model). Audi has also expanded the range of apps and driver assistance systems as part of the model upgrade.

The standard equipment is also being expanded and now includes, among other features, 19" to 21" alloy wheels (depending on the model and equipment package), a rearview camera, park and high beam assist, and the convenience key. In contrast to the 55 TFSI e quattro, the 60 TFSI e quattro rolls off the line with the S line exterior and sport package as standard. Both models also come as standard with a Mode 3 charging cable.

Reliable in any situation thanks to all-wheel steering and roll stabilization

Only an Audi drives like an Audi: This is how the brand with the four rings sums up an Audi's DNA, and it's no less true for the brand's plug-in hybrids. Five characteristics define the Q8's handling: balanced, solid, controlled, precise, and effortless. The suspension, steering, and drive, as well as the braking and control systems, all play a key role in creating a reliably safe, dynamic, and simultaneously comfortable driving experience.

Even the standard equipment, including balanced steel spring suspension with damper control, gives both SUVs a consistent driving experience. Electronically controlled air suspension with a continuously adaptive damping system - adaptive air suspension or adaptive air suspension sport - is optionally available. Customers who purchase a Q7 60 TFSI e or Q8 60 TFSI e enjoy air suspension as part of the standard equipment. In addition, and for the first time in the plug-in hybrids, optional all-wheel steering ensures increased safety and comfort. At low speeds, the back wheels turn up to five degrees in the opposite direction to the front wheels. This reduces the turning radius by up to one meter and increases maneuverability. At the same time, the driver feels more comfort and stability at higher speeds because the back wheels turn in the same direction as the front wheels.

Electromechanical active roll stabilization (eAWS) ensures even more dynamics as another optional first for the plug-in hybrids. Both axles are equipped with a compact electric motor coupled to a transmission in this system. It splits the stabilizer into two halves and, when driving straight, allows them to work largely independently of each other, which reduces body movements on uneven roads. In sporty driving, however, the electric motor causes the two halves to rotate in opposite directions of each other, so they work together as a unit. This means that the car leans into the curve significantly less for a more precise steering response. The eAWS is powered by a 48-volt supercapacitor. The compact, lightweight energy storage unit, which can absorb and release high currents in a very short time, supplies the two electric motors with a maximum power of 1.5 kilowatts each.

Up to 90 km of all-electric range in urban driving; available to order from April 2024

The new Audi Q7 TFSI e quattro and Q8 TFSI e quattro with intelligent hybrid technology and revised design, innovative lighting technology, and extensive standard equipment will be launched at the end of April 2024. Prices for the Q7 55 TFSI e quattro start at 85,500 euros, while the more powerful 60 TFSI e quattro costs 96,000 euros. The new Audi Q8 55 TFSI e quattro is available to order for 92,900 euros; the Q8 60 TFSI e quattro starts at 103,200 euros.