It is not the largest Audi SUV anymore, but the Q7 still has a lot of fans waiting for the new model to arrive. The facelift of the current edition brought a fresh look, so designers won’t have too much job on the upcoming 2021 Audi Q7. Or maybe they will if the new version arrives next season. For some while, we can hear rumors about the performance-oriented Q7 RS model, but for now, these are just speculations. Whatsoever, the enthusiast wouldn’t mind if it steps into the market.
After the facelift, the German carmaker will look for more options on how to improve its position in the mid-size premium segment. The competition is stronger than ever, but Audi is ready to change its approach and bring some radical novelties. One of them could be an all-electric SUV. We already know that the carmaker is testing the E-Tron, but no one knows the size of the vehicle and whose shape it is going to borrow. Some say the 2021 Audi Q7 E-Tron could be presented next year. Also, we could see a lighter electric motor supporting the engine with internal combustion, making a sort of hybrid with a better fuel economy.
There are a lot of possibilities for the upcoming SUV. But, not all of them will be here in 2021. Even if a few happen, there will be a lot of options ahead of buyers – starting from an engine choice, drive method, trim levels, and up to additional packages.
2021 Audi Q7 Hybrid
A couple of drivetrains were added for the current model. Both of them are paired with an electric motor, making powerful hybrids. The carmaker is catching up with competition and in 2021 they could raise everything to another level.
A 45TFSI is a model based on a 2.0-liter displacement. Combined with electric support, it can deliver 252 horsepower. The mild-hybrid system is not exactly what everyone expected from this setup. But, the German carmaker is delivering something special (we will talk about E-Tron later). Still, the entry-level engine is not delivering enough power for a mid-size vehicle, so most buyers will opt for a V6.
In this case, you can again count on more power than before. 333 ponies are more than enough for the premium SUV to get on the line with most of its rivals. Audi is pairing this motor with an eight-speed automatic transmission and the hybrid system will help it improve a fuel economy. Also, this engine is capable of towing, so you can gain 3,300 pounds compared to a four-pot engine, able to pull 4,400 lbs.
2021 Audi Q7 E-Tron PHEV Specs
The biggest change of the recent facelift is the implementation of the PHEV system. The E-Tron configuration is combining a diesel engine with electric motors to maximize power. You will get a total of 373 hp and 515 lb-ft of torque. Sadly, the E-Tron based on such a unit won’t be available in the USA any time soon. On the other hand, this means Audi is in the business, and we can expect the petrol version pretty soon. More specs of the current PHEV setup will make you want it – 35 miles of electric range, and fuel economy of 138 MPGe.
Other Engines
The 2021 Audi Q7 is going to be available in other markets with more options. The diesel unit is not only a part of the E-Tron PHEV configuration. Alone, you can find it as 3.0 and 4.0. the other one is the SQ7 performance-oriented version, another one not available for the USA. Still, buyers in this part of the world will see a 4.0-liter displacement in gasoline mode with 510 hp and 570 lb-ft. It is going to compete with BMW X6M and Mercedes AMG GLE 63.
Accessories and Equipment
Experts are giving the highest grades for the level of comfort inside the 2021 Audi Q7. The seven-seat SUV offers plenty of space. Now, its third row is roomier than before. The cargo capacity is only 15 cubic feet with all seats up. But, if you need more space, by folding the second and third row, you can get up to 71 cu.ft.
Automatic emergency brakes are one of the highlights of the safety system. The IIHS rates it with the best grades. Audi also offers a new technology – the SUV will stop if it detects any medical issues with a driver. Upper trims come with traffic sign recognition and lane change assist feature.
The base trim offers more features than the average luxury mid-size SUV. All the infotainment features are displayed on a 10-inch screen. Tri-zone climate control, even larger driver display, power-adjustable front row and power-folding rear seats are all standard. If you want to make it even more luxurious, Audi offers Prestige package with a 23-speaker audio system or genuine leather. The HUD is also added, while the interior is getting premium accents all over the cockpit.
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