Audi is unveiling a vehicle that marks a superlative new development in the Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) segment. The Audi Q7 ingeniously combines sportiness and versatility, sophisticated technology and the luxury of a premium-class vehicle. On the road it excels with the performance and driving dynamics of a sports car; off-road it redefines the benchmark in its category. A vehicle that outwardly makes no secret of its qualities and whose technology delivers on its promise – on any road and in all conditions. The Audi Q7 – the performance SUV from the creator of quattro.

The Audi Q7 sets new trends through its design alone. Characteristic Audi dynamism is reflected in the broad curve of the roof line and the distinctive high body surface in relation to the flat window area. The dynamic sweep of the front section and the powerful rear end with its sharply sloping D-posts fashion a coupé-like silhouette. Equally typical of the current Audi formal idiom are the shoulder line and dynamic line, which define the side section. The paintwork option of two contrasting body colours creates a particularly striking look. Eleven basic colours are available, three of which are reserved exclusively for the Q7.




With a length of 5,086 millimetres (200 inches) and a wheelbase of exactly 3,002 millimetres (118 inches) (width: 1,983 mm (78 inches) / height 1,737 mm (68.4 inches)), the Q7 takes the lead in the SUV contest. Its occupants benefit from the comfort of incomparable spaciousness and a new dimension in versatility: no less than 28 seating and loading configurations are possible in the Q7.

Up to seven occupants can be accommodated in three rows of seats. The seats in the second row are individually adjustable for fore/aft movement; in addition to this, passengers can enjoy the largest legroom in this class. Both rear seat rows can be folded flat to provide a load area of 2,035 litres (71.9 cu. ft.) if required, without the seats having to be removed.




If used as a 5-seater the Q7 boasts a load capacity of 775 litres (27.4 cu. ft.) – the best in its class!

When the series is launched, Audi Q7 customers will have the choice of two powerful engines: the new 4.2-litre V8 with FSI petrol direct injection develops 257 kW (350 bhp) and achieves a maximum torque of 440 Newton-metres (324 lb-ft).

The 3.0 TDI six-cylinder engine features a latest-generation common rail injection system that uses piezo inline injectors, thus combining the high performance of 171 kW (233 bhp) and substantial torque of 500 Nm (368 lb-ft) with exceptional refinement and excellent economy.

Power transmission for both engine versions comes from the 6-speed tiptronic.

The Audi Q7 is naturally equipped as standard with quattro permanent four-wheel drive. Its Torsen centre differential conveys power to all four wheels, on-road and off-road, achieving maximum traction and lateral stability – the prerequisites for optimum driving dynamics and safety. This drive concept has become firmly established over the past 25 years, featuring both in more than two million series-production Audi models and in countless victories on the racetrack and in rallies.




Like the Audi RS 4, the Audi Q7 features the latest-generation Torsen differential, with a standard torque split of 40 : 60 (front / rear). The driver benefits – also thanks to virtually balanced axle load distribution – from even better agility and steering precision that remains practically free of torque steer.

The chassis of the Audi Q7 comprising numerous aluminium components – independent wheel suspension with double wishbones at the front and rear – also excels with its all-round qualities. Steel-spring suspension and twin-tube shock absorbers are designed for sporty driving and superior comfort, even off-road.
The tilted position of the rear spring and shock absorber unit reduces overall height and creates more room at the rear.

18-inch light alloy wheels with 235/60 tyres (eight-cylinder: 255/55) are fitted as standard. All Q7 versions can be fitted optionally with 19-inch or 20-inch wheels.

Also available on request: adaptive air suspension. The combination of air suspension and an electronically controlled damping system represents the perfect synthesis of decidedly sporty handling and supreme ride comfort. The standard dynamic roll stabilisation system reduces body movements about the longitudinal axis to a minimum.




Variable ground clearance – starting at 180 millimetres and extending to 240 mm in lift mode – means that even challenging terrain can be negotiated. The off-road mode, with 205 mm ground clearance and adapted damper control, allows cross-country driving. The loading sill has a particularly convenient feature: it can be lowered to enable heavy objects to be loaded effortlessly into the luggage area.

Yet high-tech dominates not only the dynamic aspects of the Audi Q7. The Q7 is equipped as standard with the innovative MMI operating concept – much praised on the A8 and A6 – which can be extended in two stages to include a variety of additional functions.

On board the performance SUV, a number of innovative driver assistance systems, introduced for the first time in standard production, are available on request: e.g. Audi side assist with radar technology for lane-changing manoeuvres and the advanced parking system with optical/acoustic guidance and rear-view camera.

The ESP includes numerous new functions such as hill descent assist. A special off-road mode optimises brake performance and traction on loose surfaces. The trailer stabilisation system reduces the risk of fishtailing by means of targeted brake intervention.

The Audi Q7 will be available to order from 12 September 2005. The first deliveries will be made in the first quarter of 2006. The basic price for the Q7 3.0 TDI in Germany is € 48,900.

The clean way to high performance
An engineering first in Frankfurt where Audi is premiering its first hybrid vehicle powered by an FSI direct-injection petrol engine. The Audi Q7 hybrid concept study is equipped with a 4.2-litre FSI V8 drive unit developing
257 kW (350 bhp) and 440 Newton metres of torque. An electric motor that has also been integrated into the driveline adds up to an extra 200 Nm of torque. The study is making its debut at the 2005 International Motor Show in Frankfurt.

It goes without saying that no Audi boasting such performance potential would be complete without quattro permanent four-wheel drive to convert all of the engine's power and torque into supreme levels of handling dynamics and driving safety. Power is directed to the wheels through a 6-speed tiptronic transmission.

The performance figures promised by the Audi Q7 hybrid give it sports car status: a mere 6.8 seconds are required to reach 100 km/h from standstill. In-gear pulling power is even more electrifying, with the SUV accelerating from 80 up to
120 km/h in 5th gear in 7 seconds flat. These compelling figures are made even more impressive by the fact that the Q7 hybrid tips the scales at 2,410 kilograms and returns fuel consumption figures of just 12.0 litres per 100 kilometres, nearly 13 percent less than the standard-production model: what better testimony to the efficiency of the Audi hybrid drive system?

The concept study's fine all-round capabilities are underpinned by the effective blend of high-performance FSI engine and electric motor, plus, not forgetting of course, the intelligent energy management at work in the Q7 hybrid. After all, it is energy management that enables optimum use to be made of each drive unit's potential, resulting in superior performance going hand in hand with maximum efficiency.

Two hearts beating as one: the driveline
When the bonnet of the Audi Q7 hybrid is first opened, there are no immediate visible signs of its hybrid nature. The 4.2-litre eight-cylinder power unit takes up the entire engine compartment, with no trace of either an electric motor or a battery.

The V8 engine is taken from the latest Audi V-engine range whose trademark characteristics include a cylinder angle of 90 degrees and cylinder spacing of 90 millimetres. A further distinguishing feature is the chain-driven camshaft. Unlike the conventionally powered models, the auxiliary air conditioning compressor and power steering pump units in the Q7 hybrid are powered electrically to ensure their continued operability when the vehicle is driving in pure electric mode.

The V8 under the bonnet of the Q7 hybrid incorporates the same FSI direct-injection petrol technology featured in the RS 4 engine. This marks the first ever use in a series-production eight-cylinder engine of a technology which has powered the Audi R8 Le Mans racing car to five victories.

FSI engines are more powerful and dynamic than conventional indirect-injection units whilst at the same time being a model of fuel economy. The V8 engine was retuned prior to being fitted in the Audi Q7. The new engine's credentials now include beefy torque delivery right up to the red line as well as agile responsiveness, all combined with economical running.

These characteristics are partnered by a prodigious output of 257 kW/350 bhp at 6,800 rpm plus a peak torque of 440 Nm at 3,500 rpm.

Placing a further 200 Newton-metres of torque and 32 kW of power on tap, the electric motor is integrated into the driveline in the ideal position, between the V8 engine and the automatic transmission's torque converter. It is linked up to the FSI engine via a separating clutch that allows the vehicle to be propelled by either one of the drive units alone or by both acting in unison.

This solution makes the most economical use possible of the space available, meaning that it does not impinge upon the passenger compartment in any way. Like the standard-production version it is derived from, the Q7 hybrid offers up to three rows of seats and a spacious luggage compartment.

The electric motor draws its energy from a battery system housed beneath the luggage compartment floor at the rear of the vehicle. A voltage transducer that supplies power to the vehicle's electrical system can also be found here. The tyre mobility system for repairing punctures has been incorporated next to the battery compartment.

Intelligent energy management
An intricate system of control electronics is required to coordinate operation of the two power units to optimum effect. In doing this, the control electronics naturally take the driver's commands into consideration, as communicated to the system with the accelerator and brake pedals and with the tiptronic selector lever, as well as the current road speed. However, the battery's charge status and the pulses transmitted by the ESP electronic stabilisation program are also vital parameters.

The V8 FSI engine is able to unleash 350 bhp and 440 Newton-metres of torque. This power alone is enough to accelerate the standard-production Q7 from 0 - 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds. If the driver is looking for even snappier response, the electronics engage the electric motor too.

An additional function for streamlining the new drive system's efficiency is just as imperceptible to the driver. If the vehicle is coasting without the accelerator pedal depressed, the combustion engine is switched off. The same fuel-saving measure is initiated whenever the vehicle is stationary for over three seconds. All the driver has to do to resume the journey is release the brake pedal and depress the accelerator and the petrol engine will immediately spring back into action.

The electric motor assumes the role of the starter-alternator unit, resulting in a quiet, smooth and extra-quick starting process.

Thanks to these strategies deployed by its intelligent energy management, the drive system boasts a high degree of efficiency. Despite its far superior acceleration, an identical top speed and the increase in vehicle weight, the Q7 hybrid burns around 13 percent less fuel than a comparable standard-production model fitted with a combustion engine only. Average fuel consumption in the MVEG cycle is 12.0 litres per 100 km. When driving purely in city traffic, where frequent energy recuperation makes even greater reductions possible, the hybrid vehicle's fuel-saving potential can be harnessed to yet greater effect.

The concept study uses sunlight as yet another source of energy: the Audi development team has integrated solar cells into the open sky system - the SUV's large-format glass sunroof - which allow the ventilation and air conditioning systems to be operated when the vehicle is parked.

Audi hybrid vehicles - 15 years of pioneering work

To this day, Audi remains the only European manufacturer to have series-manufactured a hybrid vehicle, an honour it has held since 1997 when it brought out the Audi duo based on the A4 Avant. Drive power was provided by a 1.9-litre TDI engine developing 90 bhp assisted by an electric motor with a further 29 bhp. Both delivered their joint drive power to the front wheels, with a lead-gel battery at the rear of the vehicle providing the necessary electrical energy.

The first ever generation of the Audi duo was actually unveiled as early as 1989, however. The experimental vehicle built on the platform of an Audi 100 Avant quattro was equipped with a 12.6-bhp electric motor which was responsible for driving the rear wheels instead of the propeller shaft. Energy was sourced from a nickel-cadmium battery. A 2.3-litre five-cylinder engine delivering 136 bhp powered the front wheels.

It has been a closely-guarded secret, but Audi has been working on a petrol/electric hybrid future. And this Q7 concept, presented at last week's Frankfurt motor show, is the result. Though currently only a concept, this eco-friendly Q7 could become a production reality by 2008 to tackle the Lexus RX400h and forthcoming Mercedes ML hybrid.

The hybrid version of Audi's brand-new seven-seater premium 4x4 combines a 4.2-litre V8 FSI petrol engine, producing 345bhp and 325lb ft of torque, with an electric motor fitted between the combustion engine and the six-speed auto that adds up to 43bp and 148lb ft of torque. Powered by a Nickel Metal Hydride battery housed beneath the boot floor, the electric motor is able to power the Q7 on its own up to 18mph, or when working in conjunction with the V8 produces an impressive performance advantage over the standard V8. From rest to 62mph takes just 6.8sec, yet the Q7 hybrid returns an average fuel consumption of 23.5mpg, 13 per cent better than the Q7 V8.

The motor and battery weigh-in at 140kg, taking the Q7's total weight up to 2410kg, still significantly lighter than Land Rover's seven-seat Discovery.

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 4, 2006 -- With the North American debut of the 2007 Audi Q7 performance SUV at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Audi announced pricing for the Q7 4.2 quattro model starting at an MSRP of $49,900 (not including $720 destination charge).

"The all-new Q7 is truly making the impossible possible in the luxury SUV segment," said Johan de Nysschen, Executive Vice President, Audi of America. "Its combination of dynamic performance, versatility, innovative technology and luxurious appointments is unparalleled."

The 2007 Audi Q7 4.2 quattro is equipped with a 4.2-liter V8 FSI engine with gasoline direct injection technology producing 350 horsepower. A six- speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and the latest generation of quattro all-wheel drive confidently sends the power to the ground. Power delivery is now split 42:58 front to rear under normal driving conditions, adding to the dynamic handling capabilities of the Q7.

As with all Audi models, the 2007 Q7 4.2 quattro has no shortage of standard luxury features. Such items as automatic Adaptive Bi-Xenon headlights, seven-passenger seating covered in leather seating surfaces, power tailgate, Audi's intuitive MMI system, automatic dual-zone climate control, 18-inch alloy wheels, 5,500 pound towing capacity, cruise control, and keyless entry are only the beginning of the impressive list of standard features.

The Q7 4.2 quattro has an extensive list of luxurious and technologically advanced options as well. A cold weather package with heated front and second row seats, and heated steering wheel, lists for $850. A $2,400 technology package consists of a rearview camera with rear acoustic parking system, Audi side assist that monitors the vehicles blind spots, Advanced key keyless entry and vehicle start system, and voice control.

Stand alone options on the Q7 4.2 quattro include 3-panel Panorama sunroof, 19 or 20-inch alloy wheels, 4-zone automatic climate control including rear control panel, upgraded 6,600 pound towing capacity, satellite radio, and DVD navigation. Sold order options include, adaptive air suspension, Audi's latest generation of adaptive cruise control (delayed introduction) and Audi side assist.

The Q7 4.2 quattro has the standard plethora of safety equipment that you will find across the entire Audi model line up. Dual front and front side airbags, Sideguard curtain airbags that protect occupants in all three rows, anti-lock disc brakes at all four corners, Electronic Stability Program with roll-over sensing capability, and pre-tensioning three-point seatbelts for all seven passengers are all standard. Rear side airbags are optional.

MUNICH -- German carmaker Audi, the premium arm of Volkswagen, has received around 10,000 advance orders in Europe for its Q7 SUV that reaches showrooms on March 10, it said on Tuesday.

Seen until now only at car shows, in brochures and via the Internet, the Q7 rolls out first to dealers in German-speaking Europe, Luxembourg and Italy. A launch in the market follows at mid-year.

The basic version of the Q7 -- which will compete against the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz M class -- is priced at $59,420 (49,000 euros).

PHOENIX, Arizona, USA – Audi has an enviable problem. It can’t build its first SUV fast enough to meet demand.

Audi said it has 11,000 orders in Europe for its premium SUV – more than five times the German carmaker’s initial forecast.

Now the automaker is scrambling to figure out how to increase production at its plant in Bratislava, Slovakia.

Audi executives said they anticipated 2,000 initial orders.

“But we have so many orders, we are trying to figure out how to get production higher,” said Audi Chairman Martin Winterkorn at a recent press event here for the Q7. “The interest so far has surprised us.”

Boosting output
To alleviate the backlog, Audi engineers said they will try to increase production efficiency at the plant by designating one shift that will handle complicated or unusual orders.

Audi will continue to build the Q7 on three shifts but will reschedule the type of orders that are filled on each shift until it catches up with demand.

For example, Q7 orders that are loaded with uncommon option packages and take longer to build because they are more complex slow the speed of the line, Audi said. Those orders will be grouped together on one shift, Audi said.

Less complex orders would take up the bulk of the shifts for the short-term.

“We have some tricks we can use to squeeze out more units,” said Frank van Meel, Audi’s head of technical development for the Q7, in an interview with Automotive News Europe. “We didn’t expect [demand] to be that high. It is a good problem to have.”

Another way Audi might boost production is to reduce workers’ vacation time, van Meel said.

The Audi line is producing 300 Q7s a day on three shifts.

The Volkswagen Touareg and Porsche Cayenne also are built in Bratislava, but on different assembly lines.

Worldwide, Audi expected to orders for between 50,000 and 70,000 Q7s this year.

Said van Meel: “That is probably much too low.”

First Impressions:
A decade after the debut of the first luxury SUVs, the Audi Q7 arrives. The good news for consumers is that it's more than just a "me, too!" SUV.

Side Assist is another driver aid. It also utilizes radar but in this case notifies the Q7's driver when other motorists have entered the vehicle's blind spots by lighting up yellow LEDs in the exterior mirror housings.

Sort of like sending payments through online banking, both ACC and Side Assist require a bit of faith that they are working properly. Caught in heavy highway traffic, we turned on the ACC system. Though we will certainly assess it more thoroughly in a full road test, our initial observations confirmed that it does indeed work as advertised. Side Assist will probably be more useful for Q7 owners on a daily basis. It minimizes the need to turn one's head for lane checks and should help drivers who don't position the Q7's mirrors properly.