Total Package?

The once super-popular Audi Q7 gets another refresh for its second generation and brings in smoother styling and more equipment in this new "Technology" line. How does it fare in this day and age? Read on

-  Jim Gorde

THE AUDI Q7'S STORY IS SOMETHING OF A roller-coaster. From establishing the brand as a mainstream luxury car-maker a decade ago and fuelling their rise, to witnessing their fall from grace after the "Dieselgate" phase. What followed was a move to purely petrol power, with all-electric models following soon enough. But it is safe to say Audi are not where they would like to be and while they have much to look forward to in the future-and massive present potential, subject, however, to ever-changing regulations that determine the fate of them and many other manufacturers― their present is now. And it involves this 3.0 TFSI V6 turbo-petrol engine and revered seven-seat Q badge right here.

The new Q7's exterior has seen a revamp with a bolder front grille, sharper styling elements, and a more distinctive design, marked by the HD matrix LED headlight clusters with piercing beams and a distinct light signature. The proportions are vastly similar with the wheelbase at an even three metres. The overall length has increased slightly to 5,072 millimetres with the width consistent at 1,970 mm. This "Technology" trim now gets 20-inch wheels with 285/45 rubber-a first for the big SUV. The ground clearance is also a generous 164 mm and that is aided further by the active air suspension which has five levels of lift, the last two of which are available in the "offroad" drive mode, which is one of the many drive modes present.