- audi is updating the q7 suv with a fresh look and plenty of new features.
- in europe, its diesel engines get 48-volt mild hybrid systems, but we're not sure if any powertrain changes will be in store for the u.s.
- we expect to hear more about the u.s.-spec audi q7 later this year, as it will likely arrive on our shores as a 2020 model.
a few years into its life cycle, the second-generation audi q7 is getting some updates. the main changes for the u.s. will be its new styling, which incorporates an imposing new front grille, new taillights, and a few other details changes to give it a fresh look.
there are plenty of new technology features offered, although we do not know which of these will make their way to the united states. matrix led headlights with lasers, for instance, may not fit u.s. requirements, as is the case with other audi models. there is also a new rear-wheel-steering system which may or may not make it to our shores.
as for powertrains, the european model will be getting new mild hybrid setups for its diesel and gasoline engines that we doubt will be offered in the u.s. market. the q7 currently soldiers on with an older supercharged 3.0-liter v-6, while several other audi models have transitioned to a turbocharged v-6. it is possible that audi will swap out that engine in the u.s. market as part of this update, as the related audi q8 has the turbo v-6, but audi has not yet detailed its u.s. plans for this freshened q7. a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four is likely to remain the a base engine.
inside, the q7 follows other audi models in getting rid of its mmi central knob controller in favor of a fully touch-sensitive interface with a dual screen layout. a lower touchscreen controls functions such as climate control and vehicle settings, while an upper screen handles audio, navigation, and other functions. it makes for a more streamlined dashboard design, but we question its user-friendliness given how easy the old mmi system was to operate.
we aren’t likely to hear more u.s. details for a few more months on the q7, but pricing should remain similar to the current car, which starts at $54,545. as a 2020 model, we expect the facelifted q7 to go on sale by the end of 2019.
