The latest version of Audi’s big Q7 is available to order now with a range of new engines and transmissions.
All versions now come with an eight-speed automatic gearbox as standard as opposed to the outgoing version’s six-speed.
The old 3.6 and 4.2 litre petrol engines are replaced by two new 3.0 litre supercharged units.
The first of these develops 272hp, powering it from 0-62mph in 7.9 seconds (a 0.6 second improvement on the 3.6 litre unit) and on to a top speed of 140mph.
The more powerful version delivers 333hp, will do 0-62mph in 6.9 seconds and has a top speed of 152mph. Both units return 26.4mpg, an improvement of 12% and 16% respectively over the models they replace.
Of most relevance in the UK is the new 3.0 litre diesel engine. It’s 20kg lighter and employs start-stop technology, with the result that it returns 38.2mpg on the combined cycle and emits 195g/km of CO2.
Performance remains impressive, with 0-62mph dispatched in 7.9 seconds and a top speed of 135mph.
Prices for the new Q7 range from £40,135 to £54,055 and the first customers’ cars will be ready in June.
