Unveiled way back in September 2005, the Audi Q7 is the longest living German model in recent years and continues to soldier on till this day, armed with just minor updates over time. The big German’s days are numbered now, as Audi prepares to bring on its successor to NAIAS in January or in March at the Geneva Motor Show next year.
To start off, the second generation Q7 will end up looking less bulky than its predecessor, and is expected to go on a significant weight loss estimated at around 363 kg (800 lbs). The completely new front fascia constitutes primarily of what Audi likes to describe as, a ‘3D-effect Singleframe’ grille housing a few slats, the four rings and the front registration plate- like on the new face-lifted Q3. While matrix LED headlights will be optional fare, the new Q7 will come with all LED headlamps as standard. On the inside there will be a new four-spoke steering wheel, a larger touch-pad, possible all digital instrumentation and a “floating” touchscreen display.
Updated six- and eight-cylinder engines from the current range will power the new Q7, and there are rumors of a new SQ7 variant pairing a twin-turbo V6 3.0-liter TDI with an electric turbocharger and a lithium-ion battery. It’s a system borrowed from the RS5 TDI concept where it employs three turbo-chargers, and one of those being an electric turbocharger. With these three turbos spooling, the SQ7 will make 385 HP and a crazy 553 lb-ft out of the diesel V6.
Images courtesy: Worldcarfans