2017 Audi Q7
Matured refinement
The first-generation Q7 was Audi’s first SUV, bringing the German luxury brand into a new and popular segment. Considering how much new ground the original Q7 broke for Audi, the completely redesigned 2017 model has a tough act to follow.
The 2017 Audi Q7 is a great sophomore effort, though. Riding on an all-new platform, it features advanced technology like a four-wheel steering system and Audi’s Virtual Cockpit display. It was engineered to deliver a smooth yet sporty ride to carry people in comfort. The new Q7 looks ready to build on the success of its predecessor.
Powertrains and Performance
For its inaugural model year, the second-generation Q7 will only be offered with one powertrain, although others will likely be added in the future. For now, the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 and eight-speed automatic transmission are more than adequate.
The 2.0-liter TFSI® four-cylinder engine will make 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, while the larger 3.0 TFSI® V6 produces 333 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque. Naturally, Audi’s quattro® all-wheel drive system is standard. Despite its 4,938-pound curb weight, the Q7 can do 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 5.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 130 mph. It also gets an EPA-rated 21 mpg combined (19 mpg city, 25 mpg highway).*
Audi is known for its quattro® all-wheel drive systems, but it takes things to a new level with the Q7. A self-locking center differential is integrated with the eight-speed automatic transmission, making for a lighter piece of hardware than the transfer case of the previous model. Under normal driving conditions, it distributes power 40/60 front/rear, but it could send 70 percent of power to the front wheels, or 85 percent to the rear, depending on conditions.
The 2017 Q7 also adopts four-wheel steering. The system can steer the rear wheels up to five degrees, depending on the situation. At low speeds, the rear wheels steer opposite the fronts to make the big SUV more agile. At higher speeds, they follow the front wheels to enhance stability.
Features and Trims
The 2017 Audi Q7 is a seven-seat, five-door crossover. It’s available in three trim levels, priced starting from $54,800.**
Standard equipment on the base Q7 Premium includes Xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights, automatic headlights, LED taillights, power-adjustable, power-folding heated exterior mirrors with memory, power tailgate, three-zone automatic climate control, three-spoke multifunction steering wheel, ambient LED interior lighting, leather seating surfaces, heated power front seats, 10-speaker audio system, and 7.0-inch display screen.
In addition to the applicable standard features from the Q7 Premium, the Premium Plus includes hands-free release for the power tailgate; power tilt and telescopic steering column; stainless steel cargo area protection; Audi’s MMI® infotainment system with navigation, voice control, and handwriting recognition; Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ smartphone integration; Audi Advanced Key with keyless start, stop, and entry; and other features.
The top Q7 model is the Prestige, which encompasses the applicable standard features of the other models and adds full LED headlights; four-zone automatic climate control with diffuser vent; additional ambient interior LED lighting; 19-speaker Bose® 3D sound system; and the Audi Virtual Cockpit display, which replaces the traditional instrument cluster with a 12.3-inch LCD display.
Optional features include all-wheel steering; adaptive air suspension; towing package; night vision assistant; Bang & Olufsen® 3D sound system; pre-wiring for rear seat entertainment; a Cold Weather package that includes a heated steering wheel and rear seats; and a Luxury Package with Alcantara headliner, 18-way power front seats, four-way power lumbar adjustment and massage for the front seats, power soft-closing doors, and Valcona leather.
Design
In the case of the Q7, Audi had to convey the thoroughness of the redesign without altering the styling that proved so appealing on the previous model. So the 2017 Q7 gets a bolder version of Audi’s signature single-frame grille, headlights with LED elements, and an overall shape that’s more chiseled and muscular than before.
The interior is sensibly designed, with some sporty features like a three-spoke multifunction steering wheel. There’s also plenty of tech, including an available MMI® infotainment controller with handwriting recognition, and Audi’s new Virtual Cockpit display. Launched on the 2016 TT sports car, the Virtual Cockpit combines the functions of a traditional gauge cluster and center stack display so it can show everything from a speed readout to a full navigation map, right in front of the driver.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2017 Audi Q7 includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, parking system with rearview camera, Audi pre sense® and Audi pre sense® city, and a full array of airbags. Optional features include rear side airbags, adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go and Traffic Jam Assist, high-beam assistant, and traffic sign recognition.
Bottom Line
The 2017 Audi Q7 returns with more tech, style, and utility, making it one of the most impressive luxury crossover SUVs around.
For more information, or to schedule a test drive, contact or visit us at Audi Silver Spring today.
*All fuel economy figures are EPA estimates unless otherwise posted. Your mileage will vary. Check www.fueleconomy.gov for more information.
**Prices listed are the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the vehicle and options you chose. These prices do not include transportation, taxes, title, other options, dealer installation costs or other dealer charges. Dealers set actual prices.
Image: Audi