New Audi Q7 review, test drive

There’s quite a lot to talk about in the mechanicals as well. As before, the Q7s for India will come powered by Audi’s 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel. However, power is now up to 268bhp and torque is a healthy 61kgm. An eight-speed gearbox will be standard fit on all Q7s and paddles will be standard too. Of course, power is channeled to the wheels via Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system. Also, the double wishbones of the previous Q7 have made way for five-link units at each end. And India-bound Q7s should get air suspension as standard as we had on our test vehicles. On the road, it comes together very well. 

 

Within the first few minutes of driving, I could tell this is a very different Q7. It felt light, more responsive to throttle inputs and generally more of a ‘sport’ utility vehicle now. Audi claims this version of the Q7 will do the 0-100kph sprint in just 6.5 seconds, which is seriously quick. That it can do so much with little noise from the diesel engine entering the cabin is a highlight.  

Even around the twists and turns of our route, the Q7 felt more willing and quicker to change direction. This is still no Cayenne in steering feel or body control, but with the steering and suspension set to their sportiest, it will be involving enough for the rare hard drive. Speaking of rare outings, we didn’t have a chance to venture off-road, but if the new Q7 is comparable to the old one on that front, it should be sufficient for the bulk of its Indian clientele. These buyers are sure to be more interested in the Q7’s easy to drive demeanour and generally absorbent ride.  

 

So, in brief, that’s the new Audi Q7 for you. Likely to go on sale from about Rs 68 lakh (estimated ex-showroom) onwards, the new Q7 has more in substance than the outgoing one. What will be interesting to see though is how Indian buyers will take to the new style.