It’s hard to believe that the second-generation Audi
Q7 is now four years old, which makes it ripe for a midlife update. Styling wise, the Q7 ditch the old Singleframe grille with horizontal slats, in favour of the more
rugged chequered unit with thicker surrounds. The lower apron will also feature
two air inlets – expect the headlights to be redesigned as well, featuring new
LED DRL graphics.
Round the side, the changes aren’t visible
through these photos. The rear end however, looks to get brand new tail lights
with multiple diagonal LED bars that guide the eyes to the Audi badge. The
lower valance appears to be redesigned as well, and bears greater resemblance
to the one seen on the Q8 – right down to the larger trapezoidal exhaust exits.
It remains to be seen if the Q7 will
get an overhauled cabin. However, it makes sense to think that the Q7 will get
the more modern cabin of the Q8, with dual touchscreen displays in the centre –
a 10.1-inch MMI infotainment unit positioned above, and a smaller 8.6-inch
panel below for HVAC controls.
Performance-wise, expect the existing range of
petrol, diesel and hybrid powertrains to be offered, from a 2.0 litre
four-cylinder TFSI petrol to the hot triple-charged 4.0 litre TDI V8 in the
SQ7. The latter, combined with a 48-volt electrical system, makes 435 hp and a
whopping 900 Nm of torque. That’s enough for a 0-100 km/h time of 4.8 seconds,
and it manages 7.4 litres per 100 km (13.5 km/l) in the NEDC.
Cr : Paultan
