MUNICH, GERMANY—Audi is having a bit of an SUV renaissance lately. Over the past 18 months, it has brought out a new electric Q6 and replaced the midsize Q5, and later this summer we’ll get to see the Q9, a full-size leviathan with the Escalade in its sights. But today it’s the turn of an all-new version of the Q7, and the North America-only SQ7, both of which go on sale later this year for model year 2027.
The standard Q7 will come to the US with a twin-turbo 2.9 L V6 that generates 429 hp (320 kW) and 442 lb-ft (600 Nm). Meanwhile, the SQ7 borrows the 591 hp (441 kW), 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) V8 as found under the hood of the RS7. But there’s no plug-in hybrid version slated as far as we know.
Both models use an eight-speed automatic transmission (ZF’s very capable 8HP) and all-wheel drive. Audi says these are the quickest-accelerating Q7 and SQ7s it has made, and it also says they should be much better to drive, too. Standard Q7s will ride on steel springs or can option the adaptive air suspension that’s standard on the SQ7—this gets an optional third mode that lowers the car by more than an inch (30 mm).
The new Q7’s body has more curves and more subtle creases than before.
Audi
Audi
The D pillar is taller than before.
Audi
Audi
The US gets a powerful SQ7, presumably thanks to our weaker emissions laws.
Audi
The D pillar is taller than before.
Audi
The US gets a powerful SQ7, presumably thanks to our weaker emissions laws.
Audi
Audi
Audi
Last month we wrote about the digital matrix LED headlights that Audi finally got permission to use on US roads with the Q9. Since the Q9 and Q7 share quite a lot, those same 25,600-pixel headlights are fitted to the smaller three row as well, as are the OLED rear lights that can display hazard icons. US-spec Q7s, though, will only do that when parked, unlike in Europe where the feature can communicate warnings to other road users while on the move.
However, US-spec Q7s will get another advanced new lighting feature. If fitted with dynamic turn signals, the car can also project turn signals onto the road surface at night (as seen in the image) to better warn other road users like pedestrians and cyclists.
