The Audi Q7 came into existence almost 10 years ago and the call for an encore has been long overdue. Call it taking their own sweet time, but Audi has put much effort into making the second-generation model an improvement all-around.
Audi dubs the Q7 as the Great Quattro and for good reason; it features the marque’s almost-primordial legendary all-wheel drive system that forged in the crucible of motorsport – the World Rally Championship. Audi set the industry benchmark by which all premium SUVs are measured by sticking the quattro system in the Q7.
| Name | 2015 Audi Q7 3.0 TFSI |
| Engine | 3.0-litre supercharged V6 |
| Transmission | 8-speed TipTronic |
| Max Power | 333 hp @ 2,900-5,300 rpm |
| Max Torque | 440 Nm @ 2,900-5,300 rpm |
| 0-100 / Top Speed | 6.3s / 250km/h (limited) |
| Price | RM589,900 |
EXTERIOR
On the surface, the Q7 seems to have lost its curves and subsequently gave way to a more angular and menacing outlook. Good start so far. Illuminating the path ahead is a pair of energy efficient LED headlights, though the Matrix LED headlights are optional. Both headlights feature Audi’s new double-arrow LED DRLs as standard, and completing the new fascia is Audi’s signature Singleframe grille.
Along the sides however, it isn’t all ruler-straight but rather, the Q7 has retained some of its curves that houses the chunky and altogether masculine 20-inch die-cast aluminium wheels which lends to the Q7’s stance. Moving along to the rear reveals a sculpted rear end that’s coupled with the wrap-around tailgate that extends around the D-pillar. The exhausts tips are integrated into the design of the diffuser for that sporting touch.
Dimensionally, this all-new seven seater measures up 5.05 metres long, 1.97 metres wide and 1.74 metres tall. The end result of this numbers is that interior space is boasted as one of the biggest in the segment. In keeping with the times, Audi put the Q7 on a diet which means it now tips the scales at a whooping 325kg less than its predecessor.
INTERIOR
The 2015 Audi Q7 really brings forth the Ingolstadt-based carmaker’s interior prowess here, and features some of the brand’s most advanced technologies. The driver is cosseted in a full electric adjustable front seat with four-way lumbar support.
As mentioned earlier, interior space is a stronghold for this all-new model and this is evident with the sheer amount of legroom you’ll find in the second row – one that slides, mind you. Meanwhile, the 50:50 split seats in the third row are now electrically operated for greater ease and can transform the 770 litre space into a cavernous 1,955 litre space in a matter of seconds.
When all the dust finally settles, the words conjured to mind when describing the interior are crisp and clean; minimalist might be taking the notion too far but it’s a fine line and Audi has gotten the formula bang on point. Like many other recent models, the centrally-mounted 8.3-inch high-res screen can be retracted to sit flush within the dashboard. Audi has chucked the MMI Navigation plus and MMI Touch as standard as well. The screen is also a hub for the infotainment system, but what is it without a banging stereo to go with, right?
The Q7 benefits from a Bose 3D sound system that sports 19 speakers paired up to a 15-channel amplifier with total output of 558 Watts, which is great for keeping the kids occupied on long drives but still worthy enough to brag at a bar with your mates.
PERFORMANCE
Only one powertrain is offered at launch and that’s the tried and tested 3.0-litre supercharged TFSI V6 engine that’s mated to an eight-speed shift-by-wire TipTronic transmission. The V6 lump churns out 333 hp and a total of 440 Nm of torque. This is courtesy of the supercharger that lives atop the V6 which can be deactivated when under partial load for greater fuel economy.
The dieting regime seems to have paid off well considering this new Q7 does the century sprint in just 6.3 seconds, which is almost 1.6 seconds faster than its predecessor. To put things into perspective, that’s just 0.4 seconds slower than the Audi TT 2.0 TFSI! And in typical German fashion, its top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. But despite the blistering figures, the Q7 sips fuel at just 7.9 litres per 100km. Needless to say, drive is sent to Audi’s famed quattro all-wheel drive system.
As much as the Q7 is billed toward sporting agility, there isn’t rock-hard suspension to be found here but rather it utiliwes an adaptive air-suspension that’s fitted as standard. The system is paired up with a continuously variable, electronically controlled air spring dampers. The result of which is a ride that always remains level, regardless of the load distribution and ride quality to rival most.
SAFETY
As with all Audi’s, the new Q7 comes jam-packed with numerous acronyms that we’ve come to be accustomed with such as ABS, ESC, TCS and EBD. Apart from the eight airbags, this family mover comes kitted out with a tyre pressure loss sensor, Hill Decent Control and Electronic Differential Lock for that additional peace of mind.
WHAT ELSE ?
“The Audi Q7 is a game-changer not just for the brand but for the entire premium SUV segment and I am confident that much like its predecessor, the Great Quattro will be a resounding success for Audi in Malaysia,” says Mr. Immo Buschmann, Managing Director of Audi Malaysia.
The all-new Q7 is offered here in ten colour choices, Carrara White, Glacier White, Floret Silver, Carat Beige, Argus Brown, Ink Blue, Graphite Grey, Night Black, Orca Black and a special pearl-effect Daytona Grey. The 2015 Audi Q7 is priced from RM 589,900.
IMAGE GALLERY
