Audi Q7 makes India comeback after two years

Audi India has re-introduced the Q7 in India, this time in a facelifted avatar. The SUV was absent from the luxury carmaker's portfolio following the advent of BS VI norms in April 2020. Introductory prices for the updated Q7 start from Rs 79.99 lakh for the base Premium Plus variant, going up to Rs 83.33 lakh, ex-showroom, for the Technology trim.

The Q7 has been thoroughly updated with aesthetic tweaks and interior updates, while still retaining its quintessential estate-oriented look. The most prominent exterior change includes a larger, single-piece grille which is now octagonal in shape. The Matrix LED headlamps have been revised too and get integrated LED DRLs.

The front bumper gets larger side air intakes compared to its predecessor and the rear sports an updated bumper as well. The tail lamps have also been reworked with a new chrome applique running across the width of the tail gate. The updated Q7 is also longer than before by 11mm to now measure 5,063mm in length. It gets 19-inch five-arm star-styled alloy wheels.

Changes on the inside include a twin-touchscreen multimedia interface (MMI) setup with a 10.1-inch infotainment on the upper half of the dashboard followed by an 8.6-inch lower climate-control touch panel in the centre console.

The refreshed Q7 features two new interior colour options -- Saiga Beige and Okapi Brown. There is use of gloss-black embellishments as well as brushed aluminium highlights that liven up the cabin ambience.

Standard set of features includes a panoramic sunroof, a four-zone climate control system and a Bang & Olufsen 3D surround sound system. Buyers can also opt for a rear-seat entertainment package from Audi’s accessory list.

In terms of safety, the updated Q7 comes equipped with 8 airbags, ESC, Audi’s Park Assist Plus with a 360-degree 3D surround camera, as well as ADAS features like lane-keep assist with steering intervention.  While adaptive air suspension continues to remain a standard fitment, Audi has eliminated a spare tyre by switching to run-flat tyres on the refreshed Q7.

Under the hood is where lies the biggest change with the refreshed Q7 becoming a petrol-only model. It comes powered by a 3.0-litre, turbocharged V6 petrol engine that produces 340hp and 500Nm of peak torque.

The engine also gets a 48V mild-hybrid system, allowing it to be turned off for a maximum of 40 seconds while coasting to enhance fuel efficiency. The engine comes mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox, with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive system coming as standard.

According to Balbir Singh Dhillon, head, Audi India, "The Audi Q7 has been an icon of our Q-range for several years and we are confident that the latest model will be as successful with its new look and upgraded features."

"CY2022 will see the launch of high-volume models, in addition to some top-end products. With a diverse product portfolio, we are looking forward to a strong sales performance during the calendar," he added.

The updated Audi Q7 is available in five exterior colour options – Carrara White, Mythos Black, Navarra Blue, Samurai Grey and Floret Silver.