The New Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro: Masterful Technology

INGOLSTADT, Germany - September 8, 2008: For two decades Audi has driven forward the advancement of diesel technology – from the very top. Now the brand with the four rings is presenting another world first: the first V12 TDI in a passenger vehicle. The diesel, which generates an output of 368 kW (500 hp) and 1,000 Nm of torque (737.56 lb-ft) from a capacity of six liters, gives the new Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro the performance of a sports car. It catapults from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in only 5.5 seconds and has an electronically capped top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph).

The V12 diesel is opening up entirely new horizons in the diesel sector. The big-performance SUV from Audi completes all intermediate sprints with fascinating ease; in every driving situation it boasts superior reserves of power. The engine captivates its drivers not only with its sheer inexhaustible power but also with its highly cultivated manner of operation – the subtle engine sound takes on a voluminous, strong note when the throttle is open. In terms of fuel consumption the six-liter TDI, which features a completely redeveloped common rail injection system, requires an average of only 11.3 liters/100 km (20.82 US mpg), substantially less than the gasoline units produced by the competition. No competitor is able to match this achievement.

Audi is taking TDI technology to new heights: the Q7 V12 TDI quattro is the world’s most powerful diesel-engined SUV, its powerplant another technical milestone. With a completely redeveloped common rail injection system the twelve-cylinder delivers a mighty 368 kW (500 hp) and 1,000 Nm (737.56 lb-ft) of torque from a capacity of six liters – giving the big SUV the performance of a sports car.

In everyday use the twelve-cylinder diesel impresses with another highlight – its astounding efficiency. Thanks to a package of innovative technologies it requires an average of just 11.3 liters of fuel per 100 km (20.82 US mpg) – astonishingly little, considering the power of the engine. The six-liter TDI therefore clearly undercuts all of its gasoline-engined competitors in the field of high-performance SUVs.

The world’s first V12 diesel engine in a series-production vehicle moves this ultimate, high-performance SUV with supreme confidence and composure. On demand, the six-liter engine catapults the Audi Q7 from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.5 seconds like a top-class sports car. Speed is electronically capped at 250 km/h (155.34 mph).

The agile chassis of the Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro, developed and produced by Audi subsidiary quattro GmbH, is another indication of the vehicle’s dynamic potential. Striking modifications to the design and the range of luxurious standard equipment underline its status as the exclusive top model of the series. The world’s most powerful diesel-engined SUV will make its way to dealers towards the end of 2008.

The design

The visual styling of the Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro gives the vehicle an unmistakable look. Daytime running lights consisting of twelve white LEDs per headlight announce the vehicle’s presence even at a distance. They are located on the upper edge of the air intake slots, replacing the turn signals that were moved to the bi-xenon headlights. Further honing the vehicle’s profile are vertical chromed bars in the grid of the single-frame radiator grill and an underbody protector made of stainless steel. The newly designed bumper groups the highly polished side air intake slots into large units.

When viewed from the side, both the 20-inch wheels and the matt aluminum caps on the exterior mirrors catch the eye. The wheel arches have been widened a total of 26 millimeters (1.02 inches) at the front and 30 millimeters (1.18 inches) at the rear; the lower edges of the doors flaunt striking new moldings. The windows are framed by matt aluminum cover strips; the roof rails sport the same look. The taillights are set in a dark-colored background, while the newly designed bumper incorporates two large, oval exhaust tailpipes. At the rear, the underbody protector is also made from stainless steel. A metallic or pearl effect finish comes as standard.

The Q7 V12 TDI quattro impresses with its elegant and dynamic styling. The ultimate performance SUV from Audi has a powerful and elongated look; with a length of 5,063 millimeters (199.33 inches), a width of 2,000 millimeters (78.74 inches) and a height of 1,737 millimeters (68.39 inches) it boasts the sportiest dimensions in its class.

High side panels lend the vehicle body a muscular appearance, particularly in contrast with the flat, sporty window area. The dynamic line above the wheel arches, the powerful shoulder section and the flowing roof line together with the standard roof rails underline the vehicle’s athletic looks. The pronounced tapering of the front section and the rear end with its sharply sloping D-posts fashion a coupe-like silhouette.

The interior and the cockpit area create a sense of light and airy spaciousness, perfect ergonomics and excellent quality. Audi offers customers a choice of four, five, six or seven highly versatile seats. Depending on seating capacity, the cargo area can hold up to 2,035 liters (71.87 cubic feet).

Aluminum inlays shine in the door sill trims and the carpet is made of velour. Carbon fiber covers and the aluminum-look selector lever give the center tunnel a high-tech ambience, exclusive wood trim is available as an option. The buttons of the MMI operating system, which has proven a superior concept in numerous independent tests, gleam in silver, the air vents in aluminum, the pedals and footrest in stainless steel.

Verano leather covers the electrically adjustable sport seats; the deluxe center armrest and the armrests in the doors are upholstered with leather as well. The front and rear seats can be heated; a special lighting package softly illuminates the interior.

The equipment, specifications, and prices stated herein refer to the model line offered for sale in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.