The Audi Q7 falls into line with its Q8 counterpart, taking on board the latest engine updates, mild hybrid drivetrain developments and cabin digitalisation innovations first seen in the coupé-inspired flagship of the Q range. Its exterior hardware also benefits from what Audi describes as “a reboot”, and now combines “crisper detailing with the latest design hallmarks characterising the Audi Q model line”. Seven seats, adaptive air suspension and Matrix LED headlights are among the headline standard features for all models in the UK launch line-up, which is equipped to either Sport, S line, Black Edition or top tier Vorsprung specification.

Mild hybrid technology standard: the drivetrain
All of the engines in the Audi Q7 are coupled to an eight-speed tiptronic and quattro permanent all‑wheel drive. A choice of two diesel engines will be available at market launch, and shortly afterwards a petrol unit, followed also by a plug-in hybrid model, will join the line-up. The standard mild hybrid technology plays a major part in the efficiency of the engines.

It can reduce consumption. Its central component, the belt alternator starter (BAS), powers a 48-volt main electrical system in which a compact lithium-ion battery stores the energy. During braking, the BAS can recover up to 8 kW of power and feed it back into the battery. If the driver eases off the accelerator at speeds of between 34mph and 99mph, the Audi Q7 recuperates energy, rolls at idle or coasts for up to 40 seconds with the engine switched off. The BAS restarts the engine the next time the accelerator is depressed, and does so faster and more gently than a conventional starter. The start‑stop range begins at 13mph.