Audi Q7



Audi is about to unveil 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 driving performance and dynamism of a sports car; off-road it redefines the possibilities 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 design As a third-generation SUV, the Audi Q7 has been clearly moulded by the most diverse genes: its styling is not only an expression of sheer sportiness, but also evidence of its suitability for challenging terrain. The interior possesses the ambience of the luxury class.

The Audi Q7 sets new trends through its design alone. Characteristic Audi dynamism is reflected in the broad curve of the roof and the high body surface in relation to the flat window area. The dynamic tapering of the front end and the powerful rear end with its sharply sloping D-posts fashion a coupe-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 striking look. Here customers can choose from 11 basic tones.

Seen from the front, the single-frame grille and the wide headlight units with visible light tubes behind clear-glass covers identify the Audi Q7 as a latest-generation Audi model.

The V-shape of the engine compartment lid sets a dynamic, pioneering trend in front end design - a clear indication of its engines' power potential.

The shoulder line converges with the clearly curved rear end at the top edge of the light units. These are integrated into the tailgate, emphasising the horizontal design of the area and its low centre of gravity - an impression underlined by the lower part of the tailgate, which reaches far into the side section.

Typical for a vehicle with the genes of an off-roader are its high ground clearance of approx. 205 millimetres (with steel-spring suspension) and the 18-inch wheels (up to 20-inch as an option) in the striking, broad curve of the wheel arches. Off-road capability is also enhanced by a distinctly short overhang at the front and the sturdy underbody protection at the front and rear.

Clear architecture and ergonomic perfection, combined with the finest materials and excellent craftsmanship: these are the first and also the most lasting impressions conveyed by the interior of the Audi Q7. The feeling of generous spaciousness on every seat is due in no small measure to the colours chosen for the materials. Large surfaces in the same colour and material dominate, accommodating the functional units which are embedded like islands. In addition to aluminium and high-quality plastic, three different wood options are available for the horizontal trims in the instrument panel and doors.

This ambience serves to reveal the vehicle's kinship with the Audi A6 and A8 saloons. The styling of the dashboard was clearly inspired by the interior of the A6, as was the driving area with teardrop-shaped surrounds for the instruments.

The driver-integrating cockpit with the Multi Media Interface MMI impresses with the ergonomic qualities of Audi's current interior design. Broadly curved and encompassing the upper part of the centre console, the dashboard forms a central operating and information unit and is angled towards the driver.

The high, wide centre console, where use of the foot-operated parking brake renders the handbrake lever superfluous, proves to be as uncluttered and functional as in the A6 and A8.

Numerous storage compartments and up to six cup holders enhance travelling comfort for every passenger. The door pockets are fitted with holders that will even take 1.5-litre bottles.

The seats in the Audi Q7 are of a new design and ensure excellent comfort on long journeys and a relaxed seated position throughout the vehicle. Depending on the configuration chosen, up to seven people can be accommodated in three rows of seats. Exceptional head, shoulder and - most notably - leg room is provided by the middle seat row, which can be adjusted forward and back by up to 100 millimetres. Here the Audi Q7 offers the maximum in its class.

In the second row, the Audi Q7 is equipped as standard with three seats with backrest angle adjustment and a load-through hatch with ski bag. As an alternative, two comfort seats can be ordered for the second row in conjunction with a large centre console. Here, under the folding, adjustable centre armrest is a large storage compartment; two cup holders provide an additional stowage option.

In addition, a third seat row can be ordered for the Audi Q7 which can accommodate passengers up to 1.60 m tall. Thanks to the easy-entry feature for the rear seats, access to the third row is simple and convenient.

The seats in the second and third rows can be folded flat, providing - along with up to 28 different loading configurations - a load area with a maximum volume of 2,035 litres, without the seats having to be removed. If the third seat row is omitted, the Audi Q7 has a load area of 775 litres - the best in its class. Even if all three seat rows are in use, the vehicle still has a luggage capacity of 330 litres.

The broad, wide-opening tailgate of the Audi Q7 can be operated electrically if desired. Naturally for an Audi, the finest materials finished to the highest standards are found in the load area too, as well as numerous types of fastening and securing elements.

Another useful convenience feature is the trailer hitch with detachable, electrically pivoting ball joint coupling which is simple and user-friendly to operate as and when needed.

Body and safety In contrast to earlier SUV generations that were based on a ladder-type chassis frame in the tradition of an all-terrain vehicle, the Audi Q7 has a self-supporting body of lightweight steel construction. The drag coefficient of only 0.34 is the best in its class and is evidence of the aerodynamic qualities of the styling.

With regard to occupant safety, too, the body of the Audi Q7 provides a standard that lives up to the high claim of the brand. Zones of defined deformation in all sections direct the impact energy specifically away from the high-strength passenger cell.

In the event of a frontal collision, up-front sensors behind the radiator grille, in conjunction with other sensors and control units, register a crash within the space of a few thousandths of a second. A few milliseconds later, the belt tensioners are triggered to minimise any possible belt slack.

A belt-force limiter yields at a particular load threshold to allow occupants to sink into the inflated airbag. In this case, the full-size front airbags function in two stages.

The Audi Q7 is also equipped as standard with side airbags at the front as well as the sideguard head-protection airbag system, which virtually covers the entire side window area up to the third seat row.

Sensors in the doors and C-pillars ensure reliable and rapid activation of the airbags in a collision from the side or an offset impact.

The Audi Q7 also affords occupants excellent protection against the consequences of a rear-end collision. It already meets the requirements of future standards, i.e. it withstands an impact against a deformable barrier at 80 km/h and with 70 percent overlap.

Engines and transmissions The engines of the new Audi Q7 ensure a level of performance promised by the vehicle's outward appearance. Torques of up to 500 Nm deliver tractive power in all speed ranges to fulfil every driver's wish in supreme style.

Three power plants are available for the new SUV with the four-ring badge: a new 4.2-litre V8 with FSI petrol direct injection and the powerful yet quiet 3.0 TDI with common rail system using piezo inline injectors. The 3.6 FSI will be introduced as an entry-level version from the end of 2006.

The V8 is a close relative of the equally large power plant that drives the currently most dynamic Audi, the RS 4. The engine belongs to the brand's present V-engine family, notable for a 90 degree cylinder angle and a distance of 90 millimetres between cylinders. An additional distinguishing feature: chains drive the four camshafts at two levels at the rear of the engine.

Like the RS 4 engine, the V8 in the Audi Q7 has FSI petrol direct injection which - following five victories in the Audi R8 Le Mans racing car - is now being introduced in a production eight-cylinder model.

FSI engines develop more power and dynamism than conventional units with indirect manifold injection - and they do so with a very high standard of fuel economy. With this remarkable achievement, Audi is opening up a new dimension in the efficiency of standard petrol engines, demonstrating once again the brand's proverbial "Vorsprung durch Technik".

The V8 has been retuned for use in the Audi Q7. A full torque curve up to nominal speed and spontaneous response - these are the characteristics of this new engine.

This engine is notable not only for its assertive output of 257 kW (350 bhp) at 6,800 rpm and a peak torque of 440 Nm at 3,500 rpm. The resultant driving performance is excellent, even in the face of tough competition.

In just 7.4 seconds the new Audi Q7 4.2 quattro sprints from a standstill to 100 km/h and accelerates superbly up to a top speed of 248 km/h. Its overall fuel consumption is just 13.6 litres of Super Plus per 100 km/h.

With piezo injectors: 3.0 TDI Another power pack is being introduced in the Audi Q7 in the form of the six-cylinder 3.0 TDI. Compared with the competition, this engine offers truly impressive power and torque potential: 233 bhp (171 kW) and 500 Nm. Maximum torque is available at a mere 1,750 rpm and giving the driver forceful acceleration at all speeds.

Despite having a torque-converter transmission, this delivers a driving performance that is hard to find elsewhere among SUVs with V6 engines: the speedometer needle passes the 100 km/h mark a mere 9.1 seconds after driving off; the Audi Q7 3.0 TDI quattro goes on to reach a top speed of 216 kilometres per hour.

As far as fuel consumption is concerned, the 3.0 TDI requires no more than 10.5 litres of diesel on average per 100 kilometres. This means that the vehicle has an operating range of around 1000 kilometres. Further fortes are the engine's highly efficient acoustics and compliance with the strict EU4 emissions standard. The Audi Q7 3.0 TDI quattro is fitted as standard with a diesel particulate filter.

The V6 four-valve engine with turbocharger technology and map-controlled, cooled exhaust gas recirculation also belongs to Audi's new family of V-engines and features a chain drive for camshafts and oil pump.

Mixture preparation is the task of a latest-generation common rail system.

This features a high-pressure pump and one rail per cylinder bank. The maximum injection pressure now reaches 1,600 bar. This high injection pressure results in even finer atomisation of the fuel and therefore in better mixture preparation and more efficient combustion.

The piezo injectors are undoubtedly the most important innovation of the present common rail system. The injection process makes use of the piezo effect: a voltage is applied to ceramic which changes its crystal structures. The minimal expansion resulting from this - supported by a hydraulic element - mechanically triggers the opening of the injector needle.

The use of piezo injectors enables the number of injection processes per cycle to be varied almost at will. Audi's TDI development engineers opted for up to five injection processes for the 3.0 V6: in addition to the main injection process, double pilot injection takes place at the lower end of the speed range and single pilot injection in the medium speed range. In addition to this, simple post-injection takes place up to around 2,500 rpm and under partial load.

This strategy produces both lower emissions and a smoother combustion process, the benefits of which are most immediately apparent in the engine's acoustic behaviour. The 3.0 TDI engine undeniably sets the benchmark in its class in this area.

Both engines are combined as standard with a 6-speed tiptronic. This transmission enables engine potential to be converted in a supreme synthesis of dynamism and operating convenience.

New quattro generation quattro permanent four-wheel drive - a drive principle that has been enjoying success in both motorsport and production vehicles alike for the last 25 years - is a typical feature of all high-performance Audi models. More than two million Audi quattro models have left the assembly line so far - a number that speaks for itself.

quattro ensures excellent traction and stable cornering, and minimises the effect of propulsive forces on the car's self-steering properties. This is the prerequisite for high cornering speeds and a high degree of driving stability - both on and off-road.

On the new Audi Q7 - with its longitudinally installed engines - a self-locking centre differential automatically establishes the optimum distribution of power between all four wheels.

Like the RS 4 most recently, the Audi Q7 is equipped with the latest-generation quattro drive technology. Here the torque split between front and rear axle is 40 : 60. This provides the basis for even more agility - most notably when steering into bends - with practically no perceivable torque steer.

Together with direct servotronic steering - standard in all Audi Q7s - this means that the driver enjoys a level of steering precision and clearly defined handling that up to now has been unimaginable in an SUV and which has only rarely been experienced in a sports car.

The chassis The dynamic suspension of the Audi Q7 uses proven sports technology with double wishbones at the front and rear as well as standard steel springs and twin-tube shock absorbers.

Long spring travel, a ground clearance of 205 millimetres and robust components take into account the application spectrum of off-road driving. All this results in a driving performance that stands up to any comparison in respect of dynamism and which sets the standard with regard to ease of control, even on rough terrain.

The double wishbones at the front axle are made of aluminium which offers a clear advantage in terms of reducing unsprung masses: ride comfort and driving dynamics are thus enhanced. The lower wishbone and anti-roll bar are attached to a subframe of high-strength steel, on which the steering is mounted.

All Audi Q7 models are equipped as standard with speed-dependent servotronic steering. This helps the driver to manoeuvre in or out of a parking space with minimum steering effort, while its directness and precision ensure good road contact and clear feedback at high speeds.

At the rear axle, the upper wishbone and the spring strut cross bar are made of forged aluminium.

The tie bar on the other hand is made of weight-optimised tailored rolled blanks, which thanks to steel plates of varying thicknesses combine low weight with high rigidity for sections under particular loads and strain. All control arms are attached to a subframe which also supports the final drive. The tilted position of the spring and shock absorber unit reduces overall height and creates more room in the vehicle interior.

The use of rubber-bonded metal mounts with low torsional rigidity at the front and rear axle means that occupants can enjoy exceptional ride comfort.

The Audi Q7 is fitted with 18-inch aluminium wheels as standard, with 235/60 tyres (eight-cylinder: 255/55). As an alternative, other wheels (sizes 18, 19 and 20-inch) can be ordered as an option. An optical highlight is unquestionably the new 20-inch polished 5-twin spoke cast aluminium wheel of two-colour design. If the Audi Q7 is configured as a 5-seater with 18-inch wheels, a full-size spare wheel with normal road tyre is available.

Option: adaptive air suspension The latest-generation adaptive air suspension is available as an option on the Audi Q7. The combination of air suspension and an electronically controlled damping system produces the perfect synthesis of decidedly sporty handling properties and superb ride comfort. An important feature for a car with off-road capability: ground clearance is variable between the minimum dynamic level of 165 mm and a maximum of 240 mm (lift mode).

For normal driving, a choice of three different characteristics can be selected via the central control panel of the Multi Media Interface MMI, ranging from very sporty to comfortable, namely dynamic, automatic and comfort. The system control unit varies the spring and damping characteristics according to the mode selected and vehicle speed.

In parallel with this, the ride height is lowered by up to 35 millimetres (dynamic mode at high speeds), optimising drag and lateral dynamics at the same time.

Driving dynamics also benefit from the dynamic roll stabilisation function of the adaptive air suspension - an innovation in the Audi Q7: the system actively responds to steering movements and thus counteracts body roll.

In addition, the driver can activate two additional modes off-road: 25 millimetres higher than at normal level, the Audi Q7 can reach speeds of up to 100 km/h in the off-road mode. The lift mode, with 60 millimetres of extra ground clearance (absolute value 240 mm), makes it possible to negotiate even major obstacles. The automatic function's control mechanism intervenes to lower the vehicle's centre of gravity to achieve ride comfort and driving dynamics at higher speeds.

A new feature in the Audi Q7 is the facility to lower the body at the touch of a button via the rear axle only. This lowers the loading sill significantly, making it much easier to load items into the luggage compartment.

The fully-supporting air springs at the front and rear axles keep the body level constant, regardless of the load situation.

Added to this is a quality specific to this air suspension concept: the occupants benefit from a smooth ride at all times, regardless of the load the vehicle is carrying. This is because the firmness of the springs permanently adapts to the vehicle weight.

All driving modes and height levels can be read off the MMI screen. The ride height also appears in the central driver information display.

New ESP generation All Audi Q7 models are equipped with a latest-generation electronic stabilisation programme. This system comprises the anti-lock braking system ABS with electronic brake-force distribution EBD and hydraulic brake assist, which automatically increases brake power in panic-braking situations. Together with the yawing moment controller, the traction control system ASR and the electronic differential lock EDL provide the foundation for ESP safety.

Important for other road users: if the driver brakes hard in extreme situations the ESP warns following traffic accordingly by switching on the hazard warning lights. If the driver activates the off-road mode with the ESP button, the traction of the Audi Q7 is substantially enhanced by means of modified control settings.

Also important, particularly for off-road operation, is the hill descent assist feature. It automatically keeps the speed constant when driving slowly on steep downhill stretches, allowing the driver to concentrate on steering the vehicle. The rollover stabilisation function intervenes during critical driving manoeuvres that could cause the vehicle to overturn and takes the necessary corrective braking action.

Large vehicles are not infrequently used to tow trailers - with a trailer weight of up to 3,500 kg the Audi Q7 is clearly destined to be used this way.

The trailer stabilisation system which comes as standard with the optional towing bracket is another important safety feature. Often at cruising speed, and even when driving straight ahead, minor lateral movements build up, causing the trailer to sway dangerously as a result. The ESP trailer stabilisation function identifies this situation and effectively stabilises the outfit by means of automatic brake intervention.

Equipment: high tech for safety and comfort The Audi Q7 sets trends not only with its powertrain and driving dynamics, but also as a technology demonstrator. It introduces electronic systems in volume production that provide the driver with important information with a view to enhancing active safety.

adaptive cruise control with braking guard A new generation of the radar-assisted distance control system, adaptive cruise control, is being introduced in the new Audi Q7. As an extension of conventional adaptive cruise control, the system now controls distance and speed from 0 to 200 km/h. It is therefore able to brake the vehicle to a standstill behind the vehicle ahead. The benefits of this sensitive control function - particularly in slow-moving traffic - are quite clear.

The sensor for the system is located out of sight behind the licence plate trim. By continually measuring distance and speed in relation to the vehicle in front, it determines whether these have changed since the last measurement, and adjusts the vehicle's own speed by manipulating the accelerator or brakes accordingly.

Audi's development engineers have consciously designed the system, in respect of possible acceleration and deceleration, as a convenience system.

In addition, the driver can alter vehicle acceleration and control response via the MMI, opting either for a dynamic or more comfort-oriented emphasis.

A new system is being introduced for the first time in the Audi Q7 - braking guard. This uses the sensors of the adaptive cruise control system and has a range of up to 180 metres. If there is the risk of a collision with the car in front, the system alerts the driver in two stages: first a warning tone is issued, with an optical signal appearing simultaneously in the instrument cluster. If the driver does not react, the system triggers a clearly noticeable warning jolt, produced by a fast build-up of pressure in the brake system. The purpose of the jolt is to draw the driver's attention immediately to what is happening on the road in front of the vehicle.

The braking guard system is the first example of a new generation of assistance systems that provide extra protection for the driver by monitoring the surrounding area.

Audi side assist Incorporating radar sensors, Audi side assist monitors the area next to and behind the vehicle to warn the driver by means of warning lights in the exterior mirrors - additionally to the image in the rear-view mirror - of any approaching vehicles. If the driver still activates the indicator, he or she is alerted by a flashing light on the exterior mirror.

The sensors have a range behind the vehicle of up to 50 metres and have also been designed to monitor the blind spot next to the vehicle. The system can be switched on and off at the touch of a button and operates from a speed of 60 km/h. Audi side assist does not intervene in the vehicle's handling.

MMI and infotainment The integrated user interface Multi Media Interface MMI in the new Audi Q7 still represents a benchmark in terms of intuitive operation. Already established in the Audi A8 and A6, the infotainment platform is notable for its ease of operation, perfect positioning and consistent inherent operating logic.

The system is available in three configurations: the standard MMI basic, the MMI basic plus and the MMI.

Even the standard equipment version of the Audi Q7 is equipped with MMI basic comprising a terminal, monochrome display as well as an integrated radio and single-disc CD player. Music output is via an 80 watt amplifier and eight speakers in the doors. As well as the radio system and broadcasting of traffic information, numerous vehicle functions such as the air conditioning and interior light configuration can be controlled via the MMI basic.

The optional MMI basic plus offers additional functions such as TP memory, a digital sound system with a total of 11 speakers and the option of a CD-based navigation system.

In the optional version with the full range of features, the MMI comes with a 7-inch colour monitor, a double tuner and a 6-disc CD changer. The MMI can be rounded off with a DVD navigation system as a further option.

A further extra, which can be combined with the MMI and the MMI basic plus, is the all-new BOSE surround sound system.

Cornering lights and daytime running lights Already featured on the A8 and A6, some highly innovative technology is to be found under the clear-glass covers of the Audi Q7's headlights: the combination of the dynamic cornering light system adaptive light, energy-saving daytime running lights and xenon plus technology - an offer unequalled by competitors.

The headlights on the new Audi Q7 come in three different versions: halogen headlights in free-form technology fitted as standard, xenon plus headlights with daytime running lights or, additionally, with adaptive light (dynamic cornering lights). The ellipsoidal module for the dipped and main-beam headlights swivels according to the line of the road or bend. This distinctly improves illumination of the road in the direction of travel and to the side of the vehicle, making predictive driving even simpler.

Audi parking system plus and advanced Two parking assistance systems are available as options for the Audi Q7. The Audi parking system aids the driver when approaching obstacles, using four sensors at the rear and an acoustic warning signal. The Audi parking system plus monitors both the front and rear areas around the vehicle and additionally alerts the driver to a potential collision during parking manoeuvres by means of a bar representation in the MMI display. In addition to these options, the Audi parking system advanced features a rear-view camera; the images captured appear on the MMI display. Parking lines projected on to the camera image provide the driver with extra assistance when manoeuvring into parking spaces. Audi is introducing this option in its programme for the first time with the launch of the Audi Q7.

Access and authorisation system: advanced key Drivers of the new Audi Q7 with an automatic transmission will seldom have to use their car key: "advanced key" is the name of the optional system that functions as an electronic access and authorisation system.

The key - which can remain safely in the driver's pocket - incorporates an electronic pulse generator whose signal is registered and checked by a proximity sensor in the door. If the signal is accepted, the doors are unlocked as soon as the driver pulls the door handle.

The central locking can be activated and deactivated at any door of the vehicle. All the driver has to do is carry the key on his or her person within a range of about 1.5 metres from the car and actuate the door handle. The passenger can also be the first to open the door if necessary. It is possible to select via the MMI system whether the central locking should only open the door opened manually or unlock all of them.

Thanks to advanced key, the steering and ignition can also be released electronically and wirelessly before setting out.

Provided the driver has the key on his or her person while inside the vehicle, the steering is released by gently pressing the starter button. At the same time, the ignition is activated and the electronic immobiliser released.

Then the engine can be started by pressing the starter switch on the centre console again. For safety reasons, the selector lever must be in position "P" or "N" and the driver must actuate the foot brake simultaneously.

Air and light: open sky system and 4-zone climate control The open sky system, available as an option, gives all occupants a feeling of generous spaciousness and ensures an excellent supply of fresh air, along with a high level of versatility. The large panoramic glass sunroof extends in three segments virtually from the front roof edge to the third seat row. The front segment of the 1.6 square metre open sky system can be raised and moved to the rear electrically. The rear segment is designed as a tilting section.

Two blinds provide protection from the glare of the sun whenever required. The acoustic qualities of the open sky system are also exemplary: the drumming noise typical of many a sliding/tilting sunroof during a journey remains absent in the Audi Q7 thanks to precision work undertaken in the wind tunnel.

The well-being of all passengers can be enhanced with deluxe automatic air conditioning plus. In addition to separate air distribution and temperature control for the driver and front passenger, it also offers draught-free indirect ventilation and an air quality sensor.

Other features include the residual heat function, automatic air recirculation and additional ventilation for rear passengers through the door pillars. In addition, the Audi Q7 can be ordered with four-zone deluxe automatic air conditioning, an option that provides individual climate zones for rear passengers.

Temperature, air distribution and air volume can be adjusted separately for the left and right side. On top of this, an additional air conditioning unit - located behind the load area trim - ensures consistent and steady cooling even for the third row of seats.