The Audi Q7 was given a comprehensive design refresh in 2019. The front features the latest octagonal Audi single frame grille and chrome-plated vertical slats. The side sills have also been reworked with an insert that emphasises the ground clearance and off-road capability of Audi’s biggest SUV. At the rear, slimmer taillights are linked by an aluminium strip. The Q7 is also marginally longer than the outgoing model, offering comfortable accommodation for seven as well as a luggage capacity of between 865 and 2,050 litres.
Features
The Q7 has dropped the former MMI rotary controller in favour of two touchscreens, which offer haptic feedback by pulsing when your finger selects a function. Driver instrumentation is via the Audi Virtual Cockpit, which comes as standard, so you can choose how you want information to be displayed, including a mirror image of the navigation screen right in the driver’s sightline. Plus, a rear-view camera and parking system plus allows you to see the space around you, with audible and visual signals to help you park into tight spots. Matrix LED headlights with dynamic rear indicators react to suit the situation while the Vorsprung trim includes an Audi laser light to double the visual range.
Performance & Technology
Whether petrol or diesel powered, the Q7 features mild hybrid technology, with a 48V electrical system. This feature saves fuel by enabling the Q7 to coast with the engine off for up to 40 seconds at speeds between 34 and 99mph. Engines include the 45 TDI and 50 TDI diesels, which are equipped with eight-speed Tiptronic transmission, or a 55TFSI petrol engine, all with quattro all-wheel drive. The Q7 offers full connectivity with a Wi-Fi hotspot, natural voice control and a free 36-month subscription to Audi Connect, which gives access to everything from online traffic information to the Google Alexa voice assistant. MMI Navigation Plus with MMI Touch and Audi Virtual Cockpit come as standard, while the head up display, standard with the Vorsprung trim, projects warning messages and driver-related information in full colour and within the driver’s direct vision, onto the windscreen.
Safety
All Q7 models come as standard with Audi Pre-sense Front which monitors the traffic in front of the vehicle for potential collision hazards. If it recognises a potential accident, the system first gives a warning signal, and – if ignored – follows it up with a warning jerk caused by a brief touch of the brakes. On long distances, the driver assistance systems are there to help you wherever you are, including lane departure warning which performs corrective steering interventions to prevent unintentional departure from the lane. The Vorsprung trim hosts a variety of assistants within the Driver Assistance Tour Pack including the emergency assist which detects, within system limits, when the driver is inactive. It warns the driver, and if no response, the system takes over the vehicle guidance, bringing it to a standstill.
