Watch Out, BMW and Mercedes! Audi’s Redesigned Q7 Steals the Show

New Audi Q7 spotted
It could be launched as early as this year
Will it showcase the power of the flagship?

The Q7, Audi’s flagship model, is causing a stir in the industry with news that it could be released in a new form by the end of this year or early next year. The Audi Q7 is a mid-size SUV within the brand’s lineup that shares a platform with vehicles like the Lamborghini Urus and Bentley Bentayga. As a result, it’s often referred to as the “budget-friendly Urus” or “budget-friendly Bentayga.”

The vehicle unveiled its second facelift model in January this year. Following Audi’s latest design trends, the front DRL has been moved up, and the tail lamp has been fitted with OLED. The entirely changed model spotted this time will also likely reflect these features. Let’s find out the fresh news related to the Audi Q7.

Single-frame grill similar to Q3
Boomerang-style OLED tail lamps

The Q7’s awkward proportions, which have been criticized, are expected to be amended to reflect the Q3’s design. Therefore, it will use a single-frame grill similar to the Q3 and may feature split-level matrix LED headlights. In addition, the new curvy body of the Q7 will have a distinct shoulder line, flush-set door handles, and a clamshell hood.

The OLED tail lamps in boomerang style are expected to be connected to a full-width light bar, enhancing their aesthetic appeal. It’s also anticipated to feature large wheels, dynamic trim elements, and quad exhaust devices. The interior of the new Q7 will be more spacious than the previous model, providing ample room for passengers and cargo.

New Q7 Plug-in Hybrid
Capable of traveling over 100 km on pure electricity

Like the Q6 e-tron, the next-generation Q7 will feature an 11.9-inch digital instrument panel and a 14.5-inch infotainment system powered by Android Automotive on its dashboard. In addition, it may feature a 10.9-inch front display with shutter technology to prevent driver distraction. It also includes an augmented reality head-up display, a virtual reality (VR) assistant, and a premium 22-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system.

The new Q7 will offer various powertrain options to cater to multiple consumers. According to speculation in the automotive industry, it will use a 6-cylinder gasoline or diesel engine with 48-volt mild hybrid technology. A plug-in hybrid model of the new Q7 is also expected to be released, offering a driving range of over 100 km on pure electricity in the WLTP cycle.

No pretensioners in Korean model
Can it overcome public backlash?

The new Q7 is against various premium mid-size SUVs, including the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Cadillac XT6, and Range Rover Sport. To survive in the fiercely competitive luxury SUV market, the new Q7 must significantly enhance its competitiveness. Meanwhile, controversy over the Q7 models sold in Korea from March 2020 to September 2021, released without pretensions about the second and third-row seat belts.

When a displeased Audi Q7 owner contacted Audi Korea about this, they were told there was no violation, and no action was taken. As public opinion worsened, models equipped with pre-tensioners in all seats started arriving in the second half of 2021. It remains to be seen whether the new Q7 can overcome the negative public sentiment and win the hearts of Korean consumers.