The Performance SUV by Audi to be Launched in June in North America
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AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Sept. 12 -- Audi continues the 25th anniversary celebration of their quattro all-wheel drive system with the unveiling of an all-new vehicle today at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The Audi Q7 marks a new development in the sport utility vehicle segment by ingeniously combining sportiness, versatility, sophisticated technology and the luxury of a premium-class vehicle. On the road it excels with the driving performance and dynamics of a sports car; off-road it redefines the benchmark in its category. A vehicle that outwardly makes no secret of its qualities and whose technology delivers on its promise -- on any road and in all conditions. The Audi Q7 -- the performance SUV from the creator of quattro.
Design
The Audi Q7 sets new trends through its design alone. Characteristic Audi styling is reflected in the broad curve of the roof and the distinctive high body surface in relation to the flat window area. The dynamic sweep of the front section and the powerful rear end with its sharply sloping D-posts fashion a coupe-like silhouette.
Equally typical of the current Audi design language are the shoulder line and dynamic line, which define the side section. The paintwork of two contrasting body colors creates a striking look and is standard on the Q7 V8 and optional on the V6 model.
Seen from the front, the single-frame grille and the wide headlight units with visible light tubes behind clear-glass covers identify the Q7 as a latest-generation Audi model. The V-shape of the engine compartment lid sets a dynamic, pioneering trend in front design -- a clear indication of the power of each of the available engines.
Typical for a vehicle with the genes of an off-roader are the high ground clearance of 7.9 inches or 200 millimetres (with steel-spring suspension) and the 18-inch wheels (up to 20-inch on request) in the striking, broad curve of the wheel arches. Off-road capability is also enhanced by a distinctly short overhang at the front and the sturdy underride protection at the front and rear.
Clear architecture and ergonomic design, combined with the finest materials and excellent craftsmanship: these are the first and lasting impressions conveyed by the interior of Audi's first SUV. The feeling of generous spaciousness from every seat is due in no small measure to the colors chosen for the materials. Large surfaces in the same color and material dominate. In addition to aluminum and high-quality plastic, three different wood options are available for the horizontal trims in the instrument panel and doors.
This ambience serves to reveal the vehicle's kinship with the Audi A6 and A8 sedans. The styling of the controls was clearly inspired by the interior of the A6, as was the driving area with teardrop-shaped frames for the instruments.
The driver-integrating cockpit with the MMI multimedia interface impresses with the ergonomic qualities of Audi's current interior design. Broadly curved and encompassing the upper part of the center console, the controls and switches form a central operating and information unit designed with the driver in mind.
A total of ten cup and bottle holders enhance the traveling comfort for every passenger.
The seats in the Q7 are of a new design and ensure excellent comfort on long journeys and a relaxed seated position throughout. Depending on the configuration chosen, up to seven people can be accommodated in three rows of seats. Exceptional head, shoulder and -- most notably -- leg room is provided by the middle seat row, which can be adjusted forward and back by up to 3.9 inches or 100 millimetres -- here Audi's Q7 offers the maximum in its class.
The Audi Q7 is equipped as standard with backrest angle adjustment over three seats in the second row and a load-through hatch with ski bag. As an alternative, two comfort seats can be ordered for the second row in conjunction with a large center console. Here, under the fold-up, adjustable center armrest is a large storage compartment; two cup holders provide an additional stowage option.
In addition, a third seat row can be ordered, which can accommodate passengers up to 63" or 1.6 m tall. Thanks to the easy-entry feature for the rear seats, access to the third row is simple and convenient.
The seats in the second and third row can be folded flat, providing -- along with up to 28 different loading configurations -- a load area with a maximum volume of 71.9 cu. ft. or 2,035 liters by European measures, without the seats having to be removed. If the third seat row is omitted the Q7 has a load area of 27.4 cu. ft. or 775 liters -- the best in its class. Even if all three seat rows are in use, a load capacity of 11.7 cu. ft. or 330 liters remains. (Please note: These cu. ft. numbers are not SAE, we simply don't have the SAE numbers yet. The result may be higher on the SAE numbers than what we're showing.)
The broad, wide-opening tailgate can be operated electrically if desired. Naturally for an Audi, the finest materials finished to the highest standards are found in the load area too, as well as numerous types of fastening and securing elements.
Another useful convenience feature is that every Q7 will be pre-wired for a trailer hitch and will be capable of towing up to 2.5 tons, or just over 5,000 lbs.
Body and safety
In contrast to earlier SUV generations that were based on a ladder-type chassis frame in the tradition of an all-terrain vehicle, the Audi Q7 has a self-supporting body of lightweight steel construction. The drag coefficient of only 0.34 is the best in its class and is evidence of the aerodynamic qualities of the lines.
With regard to occupant safety, too, the body of the Audi Q7 provides a standard that lives up to the high claim of the brand. Zones of defined deformation in all sections direct the impact energy specifically away from the high-strength passenger cell which offers maximum survival space.
In the event of a frontal collision, front sensors behind the radiator grille, in conjunction with other sensors and control units, register a crash within the space of a few thousandths of a second. A few milliseconds later, the belt tensioners are triggered to minimize any possible belt slack.
A belt-force limiter yields at a particular load threshold to allow occupants to sink into the inflated airbag. The full-size front airbag functions in two stages: during the first stage -- when it ignites in low- speed accidents -- there is less load on the occupant. At higher speeds, the deployment of the second stage fully utilizes the protective potential of the front airbag.
The Audi Q7 is also equipped as standard with side airbags at the front as well as the sideguard head-protection airbag system, which virtually covers the entire side window area up to the third seat row.
Sensors in doors and C-pillars ensure reliable and fast deployment in the event of a side or oblique collision.
The Audi Q7 also affords occupants excellent protection against the consequences of a rear-end collision. It already meets the requirements of future standards, i.e. it withstands an impact against a deformable barrier at 49.7 mph or 80 km/h and with 70 per cent overlap.
Powertrain
The Audi Q7 will be introduced in North America with a 4.2 liter 350 horsepower V8 FSI engine. This V8 is a close relative of the equally large power plant that will drive the most dynamic Audi in the near future, the RS 4.
Like the RS 4 engine, the V8 in the Q7 has FSI direct injection, which -- following five victories in the Audi R8 Le Mans racing car -- is now being introduced in a production eight-cylinder model.
FSI engines deliver more power and dynamism than the conventional power plant with manifold injection -- and they do so with outstanding fuel economy. With this remarkable achievement, Audi is opening up a new dimension in the efficiency of standard petrol engines, demonstrating once again the brand's proverbial "Vorsprung durch Technik."
The V8 has been retuned for use in the Audi Q7. A fuller torque curve up to nominal speed and spontaneous response -- these are the characteristics of this new engine.
The engine excels not only with its dominant power output (350 hp) at 6,800 rpm and a maximum torque of 324.5 lb. ft. at 3,500 rpm. The resultant driving performance is excellent, even in the face of tough competition.
In just 7.4 seconds the new 4.2 quattro variant of the Audi SUV sprints from zero to 60 mph and accelerates superbly up to a top speed of 154 mph. (European times, North American times not yet available).
The V8 will be joined by a 3.6 FSI V6 version in September which will generate 280 hp.
New quattro generation
A typical feature of all high-performance Audi vehicles is quattro permanent all-wheel drive -- a drive principle that is now celebrating 25 years of success in motor sport and standard production. More than two million Audi quattro models have left the assembly line so far -- a number that speaks for itself.
quattro ensures excellent traction and lateral stability and minimizes the effect of propulsive power on the vehicle's self-steering properties. This is the prerequisite for high cornering speeds and a high degree of driving stability -- on and off-road. Hence, it was a given that the Audi Q7 would be a showcase for the company's most advanced development of quattro all-wheel drive.
A Torsen differential in the new Audi Q7 -- with its longitudinally installed engines -- automatically ensures optimum power distribution to all four wheels. The name Torsen is a combination of the terms "torque" and "sensing." The Torsen differential is a self-locking worm gear.
Like the RS 4 performance sedan, the Q7 is equipped with the latest- generation quattro drive technology. Here the torque split between front and rear axle is 40:60. This provides the basis for even more agility -- most notably when steering into bends -- with practically no perceivable torque steer.
Together with direct servotronic steering -- standard in all versions -- this means that the driver enjoys a level of steering precision and clearly defined handling that up to now has been unimaginable in an SUV and which has only rarely been experienced in a sports car.
Suspension
The dynamic suspension of the Audi Q7 uses proven sports technology with double wishbones at the front and rear as well as standard steel springs and twin-tube shock absorbers. Long spring travel, ample ground clearance and robust components take into account the application spectrum of off-road driving. All this results in a driving performance that welcomes any comparison in respect to driving dynamics and which sets the standard with regard to ease of control, even on rough terrain.
The double wishbones at the front axle are made of aluminum, a clear advantage in terms of reducing unsprung masses: ride comfort and driving dynamics are thus enhanced. The lower wishbone and anti-roll bar are attached to a subframe of high-strength steel, on which the steering is mounted.
All Q7 models are equipped as standard with speed-dependent servotronic steering. This helps the driver to maneuver in or out of a parking space with minimum steering effort, and its directness and precision ensure good road contact and clear feedback at high speeds.
At the rear axle, the upper wishbone and the spring strut cross bar are made of forged aluminum. The tie bar on the other hand is made of weight- optimized tailored rolled blanks, which thanks to steel plates of varying thicknesses combine low weight with high rigidity for sections under particular loads and strain. All control arms are attached to a subframe which also supports the final drive. The tilted position of the spring and shock absorber unit reduces overall height and creates more room in the vehicle interior.
The use of rubber-bonded metal mounts with low torsional rigidity at the front and rear axle means that occupants can enjoy exceptional ride comfort.
The Audi Q7 is fitted with 18-inch aluminum wheels as standard, with 235/60 tires (eight-cylinder: 255/55). As an alternative, other wheels (sizes 18, 19 and 20-inch) can be ordered on request. An optical highlight is unquestionably the new 20-inch 5-arm double-spoke cast aluminum wheel with the bicolor design. If the SUV is configured as a 5-seater with 18-inch wheels, a full-size spare wheel is available. All wheel sizes up to 20" will have all- season tires designed specifically for the North American market.
Option: adaptive air suspension
The latest-generation adaptive air suspension is available as an option on the Audi Q7. The combination of air suspension and an electronically controlled damping system produces the perfect synthesis of truly sporty handling and supreme ride comfort. An important feature for an automobile with off-road capability: ground clearance is variable between the minimum dynamic level of 6.5 inches or 165 mm and a maximum of 9.4 inches or 240 mm (when in lift mode).
For normal driving, a choice of three different characteristics can be selected via the central multimedia interface (MMI) control panel, ranging from very sporty to comfortable, namely dynamic, automatic and comfort. The system control unit varies the spring and damping characteristics according to the mode selected and vehicle speed.
In parallel with this, the trim is lowered by up to 1.4 inches or 35 millimetres (dynamic mode at high speeds), optimizing drag and lateral dynamics at the same time.
Driving dynamics also benefit from the dynamic roll stabilization function of the adaptive air suspension system -- an innovation in the Q7: the system actively responds to steering movements and thus counteracts body roll.
In addition, the driver can activate two additional modes off-road: 1 inch or 25 millimetres higher than at normal level, the Audi Q7 can reach speeds of up to 60 mph in the off-road mode. In lift mode, with 2.4 inches or 60 millimetres of extra ground clearance (absolute value 9.5 inches or 240 millimeters), even major obstacles can be negotiated. The automatic function's control mechanism intervenes to lower the vehicle's center of gravity to achieve ride comfort and driving dynamics at higher speeds.
A new feature in the Q7 is the facility to lower the body at the touch of a button via the rear axle only. The loading lip is lowered significantly, making it much easier to load items into the luggage area.
The fully-supporting air springs at the front and rear axle keep the body level constant, regardless of the load situation.
Added to this is a quality specific to this air suspension concept: the occupants benefit from a smooth ride at all times, regardless of the load the vehicle is carrying. The firmness of the springs always adapts to the weight of the vehicle.
All driving modes and height levels can be read off the MMI screen. The ride height also appears in the central driver information display.
New ESP generation
All Audi SUV models are equipped with a latest-generation electronic stabilization program. This includes the antilock brake system ABS with electronic brake force distribution EBD and hydraulic brake assist which automatically increases brake power when the driver applies the brakes in an emergency. The traction control system ASR and the electronic differential lock EDL, in conjunction with yaw control, form the basis of the ESP safety concept.
Important -- particularly for off-road operation, is the hill descent assist feature. It automatically keeps the speed constant when driving slowly on steep downhill stretches, allowing the driver to concentrate on steering the vehicle. The roll stability program (RSP) intervenes during critical driving maneuvers that could cause the vehicle to overturn and takes the necessary corrective braking action.
Large vehicles are often used to tow trailers -- with a trailer weight of up to 5,000 lbs. from the factory and 7,700 lbs. with the optional towing package the Audi Q7 is clearly destined to be used this way.
Equipment: high tech for safety and comfort
The Audi Q7 sets trends not only with its powertrain and driving dynamics but also as a technology carrier. It introduces electronic systems in standard production that provide the driver with important information with a view to enhancing active safety.
Adaptive cruise control system
Audi's radar-assisted distance control system, adaptive cruise control which operates from 25-90 mph, is available on the Q7. The benefits of this sensitive control function -- particularly in slow-moving traffic -- are quite clear. Using sensors, the system is able to brake the vehicle to a standstill behind the vehicle ahead. In the future, a new generation of the radar- assisted distance control system, adaptive cruise control plus, may be available in North America. As an extension of conventional adaptive cruise control, that system would control distance and speed from 0 to 124 mph.
The sensor for the adaptive cruise control system is located out of sight behind the license plate trim. By taking continuous differential measurements it determines whether distance and speed in relation to the car in front have changed, and adjusts the vehicle's own speed by manipulating the accelerator or brakes accordingly.
Audi development engineers have deliberately designed the system, in respect of possible acceleration and deceleration, as a convenience system.
Audi side assist
Incorporating radar sensors, Audi side assist monitors the area next to and behind the vehicle to warn the driver -- additionally to the image in the rear-view mirror -- of any approaching vehicles. The driver is alerted by a warning light on the outside mirror, followed by an additional acoustic signal should he/she nevertheless switch on the direction indicator.
The sensors have a range behind the vehicle of 54.7 yards or 50 meters and have also been designed to monitor the blind spot next to the vehicle. The system can be switched on and off at the touch of a button and operates from a speed of 37 mph or 60 km/h. Audi side assist does not intervene in the driving and control functions.
MMI and Infotainment
Still a benchmark with regard to intuitive operation -- the integrated user interface MMI, the multimedia interface in the new Audi Q7. Already established in the Audi A8 and A6, the infotainment platform is notable for its ease of operation, ergonomic positioning and consistent inherent operating logic.
In North America, the MMI comes with a color monitor, a double tuner and a 6-disc CD changer. On request the MMI can be rounded off with a DVD navigation system.
Cornering lights and daytime running lights
Already featured on the A8 and A6, some highly innovative technology will be found under the clear-glass covers of the Q7's front headlights: the combination of the dynamic cornering light system adaptive light, energy- saving daytime running lights and Bi-xenon technology -- an offer unequalled by competitors.
Rearview camera with rear advanced parking system
The Audi parking system aids the driver when approaching obstacles, using four sensors at the rear and an acoustic warning signal. The parking system monitors both front and rear areas around the vehicle and alerts the driver to a potential collision during parking maneuvers. In addition, the Audi parking system advanced features a rear-view camera; the images captured appear on the MMI screen. Parking lines projected on to the camera image provide extra support for the driver when maneuvering into parking spaces. Audi is introducing this option in its program for the production launch of the Q7.
Access and authorization system: advanced key
Drivers of the new Audi Q7 with an automatic transmission will seldom have to use their car key: "advanced key" is the name of the optional system that functions as an electronic access and authorization system.
The key -- which can remain safely in the pocket -- has an electronic pulse transmitter and its signal is registered and verified by a proximity sensor in the door. If identified, the doors are unlocked as soon as the driver pulls the door handle.
The central locking system can be activated and deactivated at every door on the vehicle. The driver merely has to have the key on his/her person within a range of around 1.6 yards or 1.5 meters of the vehicle and pull the door handle. If required, the passengers can also open the door first. Via the MMI you can choose whether the central locking should release only the door opened manually or whether all doors should be unlocked.
Before starting out, the steering and ignition are released electronically with advanced key, through wireless remote control. Provided the driver has the key on his or her person inside the vehicle, the steering is released by lightly pressing the starter button. At the same time, the ignition is turned on and the electronic immobiliser released.
The engine is then started by pressing the starter switch in the center console once again. For safety reasons the automatic selector lever must be in position P or N, while the driver operates the foot brake at the same time. The advanced key system is already popular on Audi A6 and A8 models in North America.
Air and light: open sky system and 4-zone climate control
The open sky system, available as an option, gives all occupants a feeling of generous spaciousness and ensures an excellent supply of fresh air, along with a high level of versatility. The large panorama glass sunroof extends in three segments, reaching virtually from the front roof edge to the third seat row. The front segment of the 1.6 square meter open sky system can be raised and moved to the rear electrically. The rear segment is designed as a tilting roof.
Two optional rear sun shades can be ordered and provide sun protection whenever required. Each element can be operated by occupants seated in the first and second row. The acoustic qualities of the open sky system are also exemplary; the drumming noise typical of many a sliding/tilting roof during a journey remains absent in the Audi Q7 thanks to precision work undertaken in the wind tunnel.
The four-zone climate control delivers optimum climate to all passengers, particularly extending to the 3rd row passengers.
About Audi of America
Audi's history in North America dates to 1969, when the brand was first introduced to the U.S. market. Always an innovator, Audi offered a range of front wheel drive sedans to a market that scarcely understood the advantages to this now well-established concept. In 1980, Audi introduced quattro permanent all-wheel-drive to the world and 2005 marks the 25th anniversary of this legendary system.
Audi's success on the road has been matched by its success on the track. The Audi R8 has won the American Le Mans Series Championship for five consecutive years and the 24 Hours of Le Mans five times, a racing dynasty begun in the year 2000. The Audi RS 6 returned in 2004 to the SPEED World Challenge and captured its second consecutive manufacturer's title.
The network of over 260 Audi dealers currently offers a line of premium vehicles that include the category-defying Audi A3, the sporty A4 sedan, Avant and Cabriolet models; the high performance S4 sedan, Avant and Cabriolet models; the design-leading A6 sedan and the all-new A6 Avant; the premium flagship all-aluminum Audi A8, A8 L and A8 L W12; the crossover allroad quattro and the award-winning TT Coupe and Roadster.
Audi of America is headquartered in Auburn Hills, Michigan, and markets a line of luxury cars built in plants in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm, Germany and Gyor, Hungary. The parent company, AUDI AG, is headquartered in Ingolstadt, Germany.
More information about Audi of America, Inc. is available at http://www.audi.com/ .
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