The Q7 is the large Audi for the sporty individualist – the high-performance SUV for sport, leisure, family and business. Now Audi has made it even more powerful and efficient, with a choice of three new V6 engines and an 8-speed tiptronic transmission.

Engines: a new range

Even more power, even higher efficiency: Audi has revised the engine lineup for the Q7. The two gasoline engines, both V6 units but with different power outputs, are new, and so is the second-generation V6 TDI. A mighty V8 diesel completes the range. All the engines for the Q7 combine two technologies: forced induction and direct fuel injection. A high-performance recuperation system that recovers energy during braking is also a standard item with all six- and eight-cylinder engines.
The new 3.0 TFSI gasoline engine embodies Audi’s downsizing strategy: replacing engine displacement with supercharging. Within the 90-degree angle formed by its cylinder blocks there is an engine-driven supercharger that compresses the intake air. Two charge-air intercoolers prevent the air temperature from rising, so that the engine draws in more oxygen for the combustion process. Vigorous thrust and spontaneous throttle response make the 3.0 TFSI engine, with its sonorous note, an ideal source of power for the large high-performance SUV from Audi.

Two versions of the supercharged V6 are available. The basic version develops 200 kW (272 hp) and has a maximum torque of 400 Nm (295.02 lb-ft) over a broad engine-speed range from 2,250 to 4,750 rpm. It accelerates the Q7 in 7.9 seconds from a standing start to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) and gives it a top speed of 222 km/h (137.94 mph), or 225 km/h (139.81 mph) with adaptive air suspension.
The more powerful version of the 3.0 TFSI delivers 245 kW (333 hp) and a torque of 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) between 2,900 and 5,300 rpm. 100 km/h (62.14 mph) are reached in 6.9 seconds, with powerful forward progress continuing until 243 km/h (150.99 mph) are reached; with adaptive air suspension the top speed is 245 km/h (152.24 mph). Both versions of the 3.0 TFSI are impressively efficient: in the EU fuel consumption test cycle they are content with 10.7 liters per 100 kilometers (21.98 US mpg). Compared with the previous engines, the 3.6 FSI and the 4.2 FSI, fuel consumption has been reduced by 1.4 and 2.0 l/100 km – 12 and 16 percent respectively.

The second-generation 3.0 TDI, a new development, has effectively nothing in common with its predecessor – apart from plenty of power! It has a rated output of 176 kW (240 hp) and a constant 550 Nm (405.66 lb-ft) of torque all the way from 1,750 to 2,500 rpm. This V6 diesel accelerates the Q7 from a standstill to a typical main-road speed of 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 7.9 seconds and reaches its top speed at 215 km/h (133.59 mph) or, with adaptive air suspension, 218 km/h (135.46 mph). Its fuel consumption is impressively low, averaging 7.4 liters per 100 km (31.79 US mpg), which is equivalent to CO2 emissions of 195 grams per kilometer (313.82 g/mile). This is an improvement of 1.7 l/100 km or 19 percent.

The latest 3.0 TDI engine weighs much less than before: 198 kilograms (436.52 lb), a reduction of 20 kg (44.09 lb). A new chain-driven timing gear and a complex cylinder wall machining process have reduced internal friction. The new turbocharger is exceptionally responsive, making itself felt as rapid torque buildup. The common rail injection system has also undergone further development: it has a maximum operating pressure of 2,000 bar and can therefore inject fuel in an extremely precise spray pattern.

The crankcase and cylinder heads of the new 3.0 TDI have separate cooling water circuits connected together by valves. During the warm-up phase and when loads are not high, the coolant is not circulated in the engine block. This saves energy and raises the oil more quickly to its regular operating temperature. The new start-stop system switches off the engine when the Q7 comes to a standstill.

Audi also offers its customers a second version of the V6 TDI: the 3.0 TDI clean diesel. It already meets the exhaust emission limits laid down in the Euro 6 standard, which does not come into force until 2014, and the tough US regulations as well. Sensors in the combustion chambers, a common-rail fuel injection system with a delivery pressure of up to 2,000 bar and a high-performance exhaust gas recirculation system keep untreated exhaust emissions to a minimum. A DeNox catalytic converter in the exhaust system reduces the remaining oxides of nitrogen by means of an additive. The 3.0 TDI clean diesel also develops 176 kW (240 hp) and has an impressive 550 Nm (405.66 lb-ft) of torque between 2,000 and 2,250 rpm. It takes the Q7 from a standstill up to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 8.1 seconds and gives it a top speed of 215 km/h (133.59 mph), or 218 km/h (135.46 mph) with adaptive air suspension. Its average fuel consumption is 8.4 liters per 100 km (28.00 US mpg).

The Q7 4.2 TDI has also had its fuel consumption drastically reduced – from 9.9 (23.76 US mpg) to 9.2 liters per 100 km (25.57 US mpg) – by installing a 2,000-bar fuel injection system and minimizing internal friction. Yet at the same time the V8 diesel, with its unchanged power output of 250 kW (340 hp), delivers more torque than before. It now supplies a vigorous 800 Nm (590.05 lb-ft) between engine speeds of 1,750 and 2,750 rpm. The big TDI engine gives the Q7 performance figures worthy of a sports car. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 6.4 seconds and has a top speed of 242 km/h (150.37 mph).

Power transmission: eight speeds are standard

Audi has given all six- and eight-cylinder Q7 versions a new automatic transmission. The eight-speed tiptronic lowers fuel consumption by about five percent. It is based on the six-speed unit, but with another friction-clutch shift element added. Being able to shift between eight ratios keeps the jumps in engine speed low: the engine always runs close to its ideal operating point. All gear shifts are fast, flexible and take place extremely smoothly without delay.

At 7.25 to 1, the overall spread of ratios in the eight-speed tiptronic is unusually wide. In the lower ratios the Q7 accelerates powerfully; in the higher ratios it rolls along efficiently at low engine speeds.

To cut fuel consumption still further, the torque converter lockup clutch eliminates slip even at low engine speeds. Any engine vibration that could occur as a result is suppressed by the new damper in the torque converter until scarcely any trace can be detected.

Drivers can choose between the D and S programs – or make their own gear shifts at the transmission selector lever or the optional steering-wheel paddles. In combination with the 3.0 TDI the new eight-speed tiptronic achieves an exceptionally high level of efficiency. Its oil cooler is heated after a cold start by hot coolant from the engine’s cooling system. An electric oil pump makes operation of the Q7’s start-stop system possible: it maintains oil pressure in the hydraulic circuit when the engine stops, and closes the clutch for restarting.

The eight-speed tiptronic transmission transfers engine power to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive train. This splits the power in a sporty manner, with 40 percent going to the front and 60 percent to the rear wheels, but in certain on- or off-road situations, the mechanical-action center differential can direct up to 65 percent of the power to the front or up to 85 percent to the rear.

The chassis: agile and safe

The Q7 is one of those personalities who are at home wherever they may be. On the road it excels with its precise, sporty handling, and where the hardtop surface ends it demonstrates impressive offroad characteristics. The suspension uses double wishbones made of aluminum, attached to separate subframes. The wheel bearings have been optimized to reduce friction. The servotronic steering varies the degree of power assistance according to the vehicle’s speed.

The optional adaptive air suspension (standard on the Q7 4.2 TDI and Q7 V12 TDI) with electronic shock absorber control varies the ride height to suit the actual situation. On a high-speed road it lowers the body for enhanced stability and lower fuel consumption. Across rough terrain it raises the body if a button is pressed. At the standard MMI terminal the driver can choose between five operating modes: comfort, automatic, dynamic, offroad and lift. The adaptive air suspension is also available as a dynamic S line version.

The Audi Q7 has 18-inch wheels with 235/60 or 255/55 tires, depending on the chosen engine. But other wheels up to 21 inches in diameter can be selected as optional extras. Braking is looked after by large ventilated disks. With the two most powerful engines even larger disks made from lightweight carbon-fiber reinforced ceramic material are available. They are gripped firmly when the need arises by black callipers with “Audi ceramic” lettering. The ESP stabilization program includes an off-road mode as standard that gives priority to traction on a loose surface. And when the driver encounters a steep downhill slope off-road, the hill descent assist is a useful aid.

Design and body: sculpture in motion

The design of the Q7 stands for power and presence; it is the visual expression of this large SUV’s character. Flowing surfaces create a moving sculpture, with the coupé-like roofline, the low window strip and the tautly curved panel surfaces being distinctive visual features. The outlines are sporty, strong and elegant.

The Audi Q7 is 5.09 meters (16.70 ft) long, 1.98 meters (6.50 ft) wide and 1.74 meters (5.71 ft) high. Its wheelbase of 3 meters (9.84 ft) creates a luxurious amount of space inside. The front-end styling is dominated by the large singleframe grille with chromed surround, and the headlamps. As an optional extra Audi can supply a xenon plus version with LED daytime driving lights and LED flashers, and also an adaptive light version with integrated turning and cornering lights as well as the low, full and highway beams.

Standard LEDs in the rear lights create a distinctive lighting pattern. The tailgate, which wraps around the rear roof posts in an S-shaped outline, and also the hood and the front fenders are made of aluminum. Audi supplies the add-on parts in a contrasting color as standard, or, if desired, in the same color as the body. The Audi Q7 always leaves the assembly line with a high-gloss package. Optional extras are the black styling package or the aluminum-look exterior package, which consists of an all-round chrome trim strip on the bumpers, door capping strips and door handles, and gives the Q7 even greater sophistication. The optionally available S line exterior package also adds further visual emphasis to this SUV’s sporty potential.

The interior: abundant space

The Q7 sets standards for flexibility: no fewer than 27 seat configurations are possible. Depending on the wishes of the customer, Audi can supply its large SUV as a five-, six- or seven-seat version. This last version has comfortable single rear seats and a third row of seats at the back for occupants up to 1.60 meters (5.25 ft ) tall. As a standard feature, the seat backs in the second row can be folded down to provide a level cargo floor. This increases load capacity from 775 liters (27.37 cubic ft) to 2,035 liters (71.87 cubic ft) in volume.

Operation of the controls is simple and logical, and the clearly marked instruments are easy to read. For the driver and front passenger there is a choice of three seat versions: standard seats, electrically adjustable sport seats and climatized luxury seats that can be both heated and ventilated. The elegant lines of the interior, with many restrained details, communicate the typical feeling of wellbeing that the Audi driver or passenger enjoys. The ambient lighting provides subtle highlights, and many of the control elements have fine chrome trim. The workmanship is typical of Audi – quality with no compromises.

The choice of colors and materials emphasizes the distinguished character of the interior of the Q7. A variety of leather grades, headlinings and inlays are available, and for the individualist there are leather and design packages of various styles. The S line sports package uses cool black throughout the interior, with subtle accents in the trim and upholstery. Among the items it includes are sports suspension and 20-inch wheels.

Equipment and trim: the highest standards of luxury

The Audi Q7 comes with an opulent array of standard equipment features, including two-zone deluxe automatic air conditioning, high-beam assistant, an MMI radio operating system complete with audio system and eight speakers, a double load floor in the cargo area with storage compartment and a dirt tray. Roof rails are also fitted.

A standard item when the optional driver information system is chosen is the on-board computer with efficiency program. This monitors the vehicle’s energy flows and displays the requirements of the most important consumers, with hints on how to reduce consumption.

The list of optional extras includes such luxury features as the convenience key, four-zone automatic air conditioning, a dark glass panoramic roof and a cool box. Items of interest for sport and leisure include an electric tailgate mechanism, baggage retaining rails and a sliding storage box. In the program of accessories are such items as a pivot-head tow hitch – the large SUV can tow a trailer weighing up to 3.5 metric tons (7,716 lb).

In the infotainment area Audi also offers a complete modular system. The top-of-the-line version has an integral hard disk drive for navigation, music, and telephone data, a color monitor with 3D graphics, a DVD player, and voice control. It can be expanded into a luxury media center with features such as a Bluetooth telephone, TV tuner, digital radio tuner, plus rear seat entertainment. A special highlight is the Advanced Sound System from Bang & Olufsen with its 14 channels, 1,000 watts of power and 14 speakers. In the cockpit area two acoustic lenses reproduce the treble frequencies; when the system is started, they extend out of the dash panel.

The range of optional equipment is rounded off by advanced driver assistance systems. The adaptive cruise control system regulates speed and following distance by means of targeted accelerating and decelerating. If a risk is detected, the integral Audi braking guard provides a warning. Audi lane assist helps the driver to stay in lane; Audi side assist employs radar to help drivers change lanes more safely. The Audi parking system advanced assists parking by means of a rearview camera.

The Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro: the most powerful diesel SUV in the world

The Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro is the most powerful diesel SUV in the world. Its 6-liter twelve-cylinder TDI engine develops 368 kW (500 hp) and delivers 1,000 Nm (737.56 lb-ft) of torque between 1,750 and 3,250 rpm to the six-speed tiptronic transmission. With a time of just 5.5 seconds from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) and a governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph), the Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro matches the performance of a powerful sports car, but is content with a fuel consumption of only 11.3 liters per 100 kilometers (20.82 US mpg).

The luxurious standard equipment specification of the Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro includes 20-inch wheels, Audi ceramic brakes, xenon plus headlights, adaptive air suspension, a Bose sound system, sport seats and many other features. This top version also has a number of striking body details that identify it immediately.

The equipment, data and prices specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.

- Audi AG

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• Audi Q7 TDI clean diesel selected as ‘Most Environmentally Progressive Truck of the Year’
• TDI clean diesel engines deliver 30 percent better fuel economy and reduce carbon emissions by 20 percent over gasoline engines
• TDI technology has been proven by dominant Audi Le Mans racing teams

Audi’s Q7 TDI, its first clean diesel vehicle to hit U.S. streets this year is turning heads, most recently with a nod from the Earth, Wind & Power Awards, which selected it as ‘Most Environmentally Progressive Truck of the Year.’

The Earth, Wind & Power Awards recognize vehicles that contribute to the reduction of global warming, are conducive to promoting a cleaner environment, and that help reduce dependence on foreign oil through alternative energy sources. Finalists for the 2010 Earth, Wind & Power Car and Truck of the Year were selected by nationally renowned automotive editors and journalists. ‘Most Environmentally Progressive Car and Truck of the Year’ winners were announced on December 1, in Los Angeles.

‘Energy independence and fuel efficiency are serious issues that need to be addressed. We are thrilled that TDI clean diesel technology is getting the recognition it deserves for the significant impact it can have on building a cleaner planet and reducing dependence on foreign oil,’ said Johan de Nysschen, President, Audi of America. ‘We are heavily invested in clean diesel technology and have worked over the past 20 years to create technology that is unsurpassed in the delivering raw power while promoting efficiency.’

Introduced in June 2009, the Audi Q7 TDI clean diesel meets emissions standards in all 50 states, offers 600 miles of driving range and, with 12 percent more power in each drop of diesel fuel, doesn’t sacrifice performance for fuel efficiency. TDI clean diesel technology delivers 30 percent better fuel economy than a comparable gasoline-powered engine and produces 20 percent less greenhouse gas.

‘With climate change and dependence on foreign oil a major concern, more people than ever are turning to fuel-efficient or alternative fuel vehicles,’ said Courtney Caldwell, EWP’s creator and executive producer. ‘It’s become of vital interest to consumers, automakers to produce vehicles that are compatible with our planet.’

Audi introduced the Q7 TDI clean diesel this summer with a public awareness campaign about the positive effects that clean diesel can have on America’s dependency on foreign oil. A U.S. EPA analysis found that if one-third of Americans fueled their cars, pick-ups and SUVs with clean diesel instead of gasoline, the United States could send back 1.5 million barrels of foreign oil per day.

American consumers are responding positively to the performance and efficiency of Audi’s TDI clean diesel technology. Vastly exceeding the original expectations for TDI demand, sales in November increased to 49 percent of all Q7 models sold during the month.

Twenty years ago, Audi developed TDI clean diesel technology, signifying the brand’s commitment to trailblazing automotive performance executed in an environmentally responsible way. This winter, Audi’s groundbreaking TDI 2.0 engine is available in the popular A3 model achieving an unprecedented EPA-estimated 42 MPG highway.

- Audi USA

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The overwhelming demand that propelled the Audi Q7 to the position as best seller for Audi Abu Dhabi has now been passed on to the remastered new generation Audi Q7, according to recent sales figures.

‘After its launch three-and-a-half years ago the Q7 skyrocketed in sales and now represents about 35% of all Audi passenger vehicle sales in Abu Dhabi, followed closely by the popular Audi A6,’ comments Andrew Hellyar, Brand Manager of Audi Abu Dhabi.

‘The official figures for car sales in the premium SUV segment rank the Q7 second among its core competitors. Considering that Audi is still relatively new to the market, it’s a strong vindication of how sought-after and highly respected this SUV is,’ says Hellyar.

The product improved Audi Q7 was highly anticipated well ahead of its introduction. The official marketing campaign kicked off this week and will be visible in various media across the UAE and elsewhere in the region.

The latest Audi Q7 sports a single frame grille with vertical chrome bars that have been absorbed in the impressive front of the new Q7, while restyled bumpers and xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights add a further touch of class. The rear has also been given a distinct 3D shape, emphasised by LED rear lights.

The sporty exterior design of the Audi Q7 continues to impress while many interior improvements add to the luxury SUV’s sense of elegance: the new instrument cluster, ambient lighting in the door linings, new inlays and leather choices, as well as many chrome enhanced elements.

The most exciting addition is the new Multimedia Interface with navigation plus, a user-friendly interface with hard drive for music storage, 7-inch color display with high-quality resolution and 3D city models within the navigation. Mobile phone connectivity with phonebook access as well as easy iPod connection via the Audi Music Interface are also available.

In the Middle East the Audi Q7 is available either as a 3.6 quattro or a 4.2 quattro. The 3.6 FSI engine boasts a power output of 280 bhp, 360 Nm torque between 2,500 and 5,000 rpm. The 4.2 FSI, a V8, delivers 350 bhp, 440 Nm torque at 3,500 rpm.

AMEinfo.com

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1. Audi market share continues to grow through September 2009

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• Audi sales total 7,209
• Clean diesel Audi Q7 mix at 38 percent of model line sales
• A5 Coupe sales driven by new 2.0 engine
• U.S. market share CYTD hits 8.3 percent in segment

Audi today announced sales of 7,209 vehicles for the month of September. Johan de Nysschen, President, Audi of America, expects the brand to record another increase in market share, to 8.9 percent for September in the import luxury segment.

Audi dealers continue to see strong demand for the Audi Q7 TDI clean diesel. TDI sales were 38 percent of the model mix for the Q7, well above company projections and an indication that American consumers are interested in efficiency and function.

The all-new Audi Q5 crossover is one of the fastest vehicles to leave the lot of any model in the U.S. Dealers reported that the Q5 stayed on their lots 13 or fewer days during September. The A5 Coupe proved a top brand performer, also, up 19 percent year-over-year. Much of the model’s success is attributed to its new 2.0 turbo fuel injected engine, sales of which comprised half of the total number sold. Additionally, the A3 model sales were up 26 percent year-over-year.

The Audi U.S. market share has also continued to grow throughout 2009, reaching 8.3 percent calendar year-to-date, which de Nysschen attributes to sustained consumer brand resonance in light of ongoing product evolution.

‘There is an unmistakable sentiment of enthusiasm coming from consumers,’ said Johan de Nysschen, President, Audi of America. ‘This active response fuels the sustained demand for Audi vehicles and explains the steady market share growth that we are seeing. That multiple vehicles set sales records in September is a testament to the momentum Audi is experiencing in the marketplace. We firmly believe that superior design and unmatched efficiency lay the groundwork for widespread appeal. Our sales results confirm this.’”

- Audi USA

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• Audi confirms the efficiency of its cars on a long-distance trip
• Over 4,000 kilometers through Europe with 20 models from the Audi product range
• Efficiency: standard in every Audi

4,182 kilometers through Europe in nine days, from Å on the Lofoten archipelago in Norway to Bée in northern Italy – Audi is proving the efficiency of its vehicles on the ‘Efficiency Challenge A to B.’ 120 journalists and customers of the brand are taking the wheel in 20 cars from five model series for the tour.

The saying ‘driving from A to B’ also stands for daily mobility – for the variety of individual transportation that we take for granted. Audi is now taking this literally, with the ‘Audi Efficiency Challenge A to B.’ The tour starts in the north of Europe, in the Norwegian town of Å on the Lofoten islands, and runs through eight countries to Bée on Lake Maggiore in northern Italy. Efficiency is an on-board standard in every Audi, which is why the company is sending not only the particularly optimized fuel-efficient models from five model series on the Efficiency Challenge, but also the sporty top models of each line.

The fuel-saving Audi A3 1.6 TDI with CO2 emissions of 99 grams per kilometer (159.33 g/mile) is joined by the S3 Sportback; the A4 2.0 TDI e by the S4 with 333 hp; and the A5 Sportback 2.0 TFSI by the A5 Sportback 3.2 FSI. Representing the Audi Q7 model series are the Audi Q7 3.0 TDI clean diesel quattro and the Audi Q7 6.0 TDI quattro; and the TT 2.0 TDI quattro is hitting the road along with the dynamic TT RS.

The efficiency leader

Audi is the efficiency leader among the premium manufacturers, with 32 models currently emitting less than 140 grams of CO2 per kilometer (225.31 g/mile). The latest version of the Audi A3 1.6 TDI, which emits only 99 grams of CO2 per kilometer (159.33 g/mile), is making its world premier at the ‘A to B’ challenge and can demonstrate its efficiency under real-world conditions. The A4 2.0 TDI e with its 100 kW (136 hp) 2.0 TDI power unit emits only 119 g of CO2 per kilometer (191.51 g/mile). Audi’s modular efficiency platform plays a decisive role in this impressive achievement, bundling a broad portfolio of effective technologies.

Audi uses these new solutions in a variety of ways across the entire product line. The S4’s mechanically supercharged V6 engine produces 245 kW (333 hp), yet consumes only 9.7 liters of fuel per 100 km (24.25 US mpg) in the EU driving cycle. The TT RS, whose five-cylinder, turbocharged engine produces 250 kW (340 hp), consumes on average only 9.2 liters/100 km (25.27 mpg).

The Audi Efficiency Challenge kicks off today, September 22, and ends on September 30. It is broken down into three stages, each consisting of several days. The first runs from Å to Trondheim in southern Norway; the second to the German capital city of Berlin; and the third ends at the final destination, the town of Bée overlooking Lake Maggiore. The tour includes a wide range of roads and landscapes, taking participants along the coastal roads on the Lofoten islands and across Germany’s autobahns. The route encompasses impressive cities such as Oslo, Copenhagen and Prague as well as the towering mountains of the Alps.

- Audi AG

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