2027 Audi Q7 Brings Matrix Lighting to the USAAudi (Audi)The Audi Q7 has become a venerable mainstay in the luxury SUV segment, having first entered the U.S. market for the 2007 model year. The current offering has remained unchanged for nearly a decade at this point, owing largely to the fact that it has remained a compelling choice. That said, the automaker is finally ready to show off the overhauled 2027 Audi Q7 and SQ7 lineup, two new models that bring revised styling, improved powertrains, and the U.S. debut of the brand's adaptive driving beam Digital Matrix headlights.The 2027 Q7 and SQ7 are underpinned by the automaker's Premium Platform Combustion architecture, which in itself is an evolution of the outgoing MLB Evo hardware Audi customers are already familiar with. As such, the proportions of the SUV remain largely similar; there are slight increases in length and width, while a more upright roofline brings a noticeable increase in height.Every Q7 model comes equipped with Audi's twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V-6 engine, which the brand says will provide 429 hp and 442 lb-ft. An 8-speed automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive are also standard fare, supplemented by a new limited-slip center differential; thanks to added preload, Audi says the diff not only increases traction but also improves steering response and handling when load limits are pushed. The Q7 retains a multilink suspension at both ends, with steel springs coming as standard. Customers can option adaptive air suspension should they require a bit more comfort from their family hauler.Audi (Audi)The new 2027 SQ7 is a much more serious proposition, thanks in no small part to the twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 under the hood. Audi says the sporty SUV will provide customers with 591 hp and 590 lb-ft, which allows the SUV to rocket from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 3.7 seconds. An eight-speed automatic backs the V-8, as well. The SQ7, of course, also adopts all-wheel drive, but it features a rear-biased setup with an electronically controlled locking differential out back. Torque flow at the front axle is monitored by an electro-mechanical clutch pack. Suffice it to say, the SQ7 should prove significantly more dynamic than the standard Q7.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe lighting adjustments to the Q7 lineup are fairly comprehensive for the new model year. The arrival of the brand's Digital Matrix headlights is a welcome change, albeit one that is dramatically overdue. Having spent time testing the units in Germany ahead of this announcement, I can tell you they do work as advertised; that said, they can't do much to prevent your own nighttime discomfort caused by other drivers. The rear lights have been replaced with the third generation of Audi's OLED units, which are configurable with eight different signatures. The three-dimensional effect is rather unique, and each of the signatures has a distinct look. (You will have to key cycle the vehicle if you plan on adjusting the design here in the States, however.)Audi (Audi)As with the previous Q7 and SQ7 models, the interior of the SUV is a well-appointed and tech-forward place to spend time. The latest version of Audi's Digital Cockpit is beautiful to look at, and is well-matched to the revised infotainment software. The SUV comes as standard in a seven-seat configuration, though second row captain's chairs are on offer for the first time. While that does drop total capacity to just six passengers, the added comfort in the second row should make these a popular option. Keep all three rows in place and the Q7 twins provide 15.1 cubic feet of cargo space, which jumps to 43.9 cubic feet with the third row down. Fold both rear rows and the Q7 provides an immense 78.1 cu. ft.Audi (Audi)Audi is not quite ready to share pricing details for the updated Q7 lineup, but the automaker will start selling these SUVs before the year is out. That means we should get more info about the trim and pricing breakdown as we head into the fall .You Might Also LikeIf You Can Only Own One Car, Make It One of TheseThese Are the Most Popular Cars by State
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