Audi will aim to keep the Q7 SUV competitive with a technology update and an exterior redesign
The current second-generation Q7 was launched way back 2015 and received what we thought would be its mid-life facelift in 2020. It now appears Audi will extend the lifespan of its large SUV with yet another facelift – spied here for the very first time.
Given Audi will only launch all-electric models from 2026, it’s certain this will be the last internal-combustion engined Q7. The name could transition to ‘Q7 e-tron’ for the next generation, providing a pure-electric rival to the Mercedes EQS and Volvo EX90. The new Q8 e-tron is also only a five-seat model so there’s room for a seven-seat Q7 e-tron in the Audi range.
Back to this camouflaged prototype and we can already see new grille inserts, a reshaped bumper and fresh headlight design – all features that were tweaked in the extensive 2020 facelift. The headlights themselves should incorporate the Digital Matrix LED technology seen on the latest A8 limousine. The overall layout of the rear won’t change too much, but we expect to see a resculpted bumper and potentially a new rear light signature.
The current Q7 has a 12.3-inch driver’s display which Audi calls its ‘Virtual Cockpit’, along with a 10.1-inch central touchscreen for infotainment uses and a lower 8.6-inch touchscreen reserved for the climate control. This same set up is utilised in the newer Q8 e-tron so we don’t expect huge changes, although Audi may install a fresh update to its infotainment system and add new functions to its ‘myAudi’ smartphone app.
In terms of powertrains we’re not likely to see any new engines introduced to the Q7 lineup, with Audi’s focus aimed more towards its all-electric e-tron range. Currently, the standard Q7 has two diesel engines and one petrol – all 3.0-litre V6 units with 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance.
The plug-in hybrid Q7 e-tron has been removed from the UK lineup, but we could see it return with a new battery. Previously it came with a 14.1kWh battery with just over 26 miles of electric-only range, but since then the Q5, A6 and A7 have all gained 17.9kWh batteries for their plug-in hybrid versions – which should easily fit within the much larger Q7’s body.
Keyword: Audi Q7 set to get another new facelift