The 3rd-generation Audi Q7 has been revealed, debuting a luxury interior and 3-row practicality. Here’s your first look.
The Audi Q7 has been quite the success story for the Ingolstadt-based brand but the 2nd-generation model had been getting on its years despite some facelifts. Speaking of face, this new Q7 adopts the new Audi design language, complete with intricate grille, smart digital lighting and minimalist approach.
This new Audi Q7 rides on the Premium Platform Combustion setup, and will be available in 5- or 7-seater configuration. Additionally, for the 1st time, the Q7 will be offered with 2 individual seats in the 2nd row, essentially a 2x2x2. If you need even more space, Audi will be revealing the Q9 in July.
The Q7 has always been about space and practicality, but this new iteration has some interesting premium touches, like an illuminated panoramic sunroof with switchable transparency.
As is the case with most of the premium car brands, the cabin is filled with screens, but it’s unclear how much of the content you see in the marketing photographs will be standard or optional equipment.
Audi South Africa has yet to confirm which powertrains our market will receive, but globally the new Q7 is available with a choice of petrol or diesel motors offering mild-hybrid assistance (MHEV). It appears the European market will make do with the Volkswagen Group’s 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 diesel, with a choice of two outputs: 180 kW/500 Nm, and 220 kW/630 Nm.
The 48 V MHEV system temporarily sends 18 kW and 370 Nm to the wheels. Again, the Q7 features quattro all-wheel drive and there’s an 8-speed automatic ‘box on duty. Air suspension is likely an option. The North American market goes the petrol-only route, sourcing a 2.9-litre turbocharged V6 making 320 kW and 600 Nm.
Audi SQ7
For those wanting a helping of performance to their big premium Audi Q7 experience, the brand also confirmed a new SQ7. It features a sporty body kit, the usual fare of big bumpers, prominent exhausts, large wheels and so on. It’s powered by a 4.0-litre turbocharged V8 petrol engine and outputs are an impressive 441 kW and 800 Nm. The previous version had 373 kW and 770 Nm, so this is quite the step up.
When will the 3rd-generation Audi Q7 come to South Africa?
As part of the Volkswagen Group Africa’s Indaba held in the early part of 2026, Audi confirmed the new Q7 and Q9 will be coming to South Africa in 2027.
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