New 218PS version of advanced 3.0-litre TDI engine maintains polished V6 refinement while further reducing consumption in reworked Q7

  • New 218PS version of all-new Q7 joins 272PS model – available with SE and S line specification priced at £47,755 OTR and £51,250 OTR respectively
  • Available to order now – UK first deliveries from October
  • 3.0 TDI 218PS: 0-62mph in 7.3 secs, top speed 134mph, combined MPG 49.6 (18-inch wheel), CO2 148g/km (18-inch wheel)
  • Standard specification includes MMI Navigation Plus with MMI Touch, Audi connect, Audi drive select, keyless go, parking system plus, powered tailgate
  • S line versions fitted with all-weather LED headlights, 20-inch alloy wheels, privacy glass and S line styling enhancements
  • Options include Audi Virtual Cockpit, adaptive air suspension and all-wheel-steering

By jettisoning up to 325kg in weight compared with its predecessor the all-new Audi Q7 is perfectly placed to capitalise on the fuel-saving capabilities of advanced new engines like the 218PS V6 TDI, which has just joined the range. Complementing the 272PS version of this remarkably efficient and refined 3.0-litre unit, which spearheaded the launch of the re-engineered seven-seat luxury SUV, the new lower output option is capable of returning in excess of 49mpg with CO2 emissions of as little as 148g/km. The new Audi Q7 3.0 TDI quattro 218PS is available in SE and S line specification priced from £47,755 OTR, and is due with its first UK customers in October.

Despite its even more intensive focus on efficiency the new entry point to the Q7 range isn’t short-changed on performance. The EU6-compliant unit’s 218PS peak output, available from 3,250rpm through to 4,750rpm, and the 500Nm torque maximum it delivers between 1,250rpm and 3,000rpm, are slickly converted by the eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission into a 0-62mph time of just 7.3 seconds and a potential top speed of 134mph.

Yet thanks in part to modifications to the water pump, oil cooler and combustion process, among other things, the SE version with its 19-inch alloy wheels and the S line with its 20-inch upgrade can deliver up to 48.7mpg according to the combined cycle test, equating to CO2 output of 150g/km. Customers who choose the SE, and who place particular emphasis on economy and efficiency, can specify a smaller 18-inch wheel as an alternative to further reduce consumption and emissions – with their help up to 49.6mpg is possible with emissions of 148g/km.

Another significant contributing factor to these impressive returns is the intensive weight optimisation programme that has shaved precious kilograms from the Q7 in every area from the suspension and drivetrain components to the body panels. The most notable savings were made in the multimaterial body-in-white, which is 71kg lighter than its predecessor, in the all-aluminium doors which strip away 24kg and in the chassis with its sophisticated new five-link suspension, which subtracts 67kg.

Adaptive air suspension now available individually

With the seven-seat configuration which is standard for UK models the Q7 weighs in a total of 240kg lighter than the same set-up in the outgoing model, and the weight discrepancy between old and new five-seat versions (a no-cost option in the UK) is an even more impressive 325kg. This not only gives a freer rein to the V6 TDI units but also reduces unsprung masses to enable the newly developed suspension to deliver the best possible ride comfort.

For the ultimate in unruffled travel an adaptive air suspension system, which itself weighs 10kg less than before, can be added at extra cost to keep the body consistently level and suppress the worst effects of the roughest of surfaces, no matter what the Q7 carries and where it ventures. The system was previously available only as part of the Dynamic Pack but can now also be ordered as a standalone option.

For consummate control in all weathers and on all surfaces quattro all-wheel-drive is fitted as standard. Managed by a self-locking centre differential which apportions 40 per cent of power to the front and 60 per cent to the rear under normal driving conditions, it can shift up to 70 per cent forwards and up to 85 per cent rearwards if either axle becomes overburdened.

All-wheel-steering as a segment first

All-wheel-drive can also be supplemented as an option in the new Q7 by all-wheel-steering – a unique feature in the SUV segment. At low speeds, the front and rear wheels turn in opposite directions, reducing the turning circle by up to one metre for noticeably easier manoeuvrability when parking and turning at low speeds. At higher speeds the rear wheels turn with the front by up to 3.5 degrees to enhance steering response and improve stability.

This ground-breaking technological sophistication is carried over into the interior. As a starting point, the latest MMI navigation plus incorporating an ultra-clear 8.3-inch electrically retractable monitor and large fingertip-reactive MMI Touch pad serves as a portal for a wealth of entertainment and infotainment content in the Q7, and trial access to the internet-based services and in-car web browsing opportunities offered by Audi connect is also included.

SE and S line models also feature the MMI radio plus incorporating a DAB module and linked to the 10-speaker Audi sound system, electrically operated and heated front seats with four-way electric lumbar support, cruise control, light and rain sensors, the Audi parking system plus with front and rear visual and acoustic guidance, hill descent control and keyless go. S line models add front sports seats upholstered in pearl Nappa leather and Alcantara and privacy glass.

The Audi drive select adaptive dynamics system is standard for all versions, and enables the driver to alter the operating characteristics of the engine, transmission and new fuel-saving electromechanical steering across five driving modes – auto, comfort, efficiency, dynamic or individual.

When efficiency mode is selected, the S tronic transmission is disengaged from the driveline whenever the driver eases off the throttle to enable the Q7 to ‘coast’ in the interest of further fuel savings. When the adaptive air suspension system is specified, Audi drive select also enables the driver to select an allroad and lift/offroad function to increase ground clearance by 25mm and 60mm respectively.

The Audi virtual cockpit, which has already set a new benchmark in the TT and R8 sports cars, is available to replace the analogue dials in the binnacle with a 12.3-inch fully digital TFT display capable of presenting a classic view with high-quality rendered dial instruments or an infotainment view with an extended display area for lists and navigation mapping.

The Audi virtual cockpit can be specified individually or as part of a Technology pack which also includes a head-up display for projection of key information onto the windscreen in the driver’s eye line, high beam assist for sensor-controlled alternation between dipped and main beam (standard for S line models), the Audi phone box for wireless connection of mobile phones to the Q7’s aerial, plus inductive charging of Qi-enabled handsets, and a three-year subscription to Audi connect services.

Detachable touch-screen tablets

Two high quality audio systems from Bose and Bang & Olufsen can also be specified to deliver remarkable 3D sound through the use of additional speakers in the A-pillars which provide the spatial dimension of height. Rear seat passengers can also be treated to the Audi Entertainment Mobile, which includes two detachable 10.1-inch high definition touch screens which can be attached to the front seat backs. These can stream content from iPhone or Android smartphones via different sources, including an Audi app, the integrated SD card reader, USB, Miracast WiFi or Bluetooth.

Later this year the Audi smartphone interface will also become available on the options list, integrating many of the functions of iOS and Android mobile phones into the Audi MMI system and replicating the distinctive look of each operating system on the MMI screen using “Apple Car Play” and “Google Android Auto”. If a compatible iOS or Android cellular phone is connected to the USB port, the respective environment opens in the Audi smartphone interface. Both platforms offer navigation functions, missed call/appointment reminders and messaging functions, as well as a wealth of music playback options. Over time, these will be augmented by numerous third-party applications such as Pandora, Spotify and WhatsApp.

LED daytime running lights are common to both versions, and in the S line, LED headlights also replace the SE version’s standard Xenon plus units. These are also complemented as part of S line specification by a high beam assist function and dynamic rear indicators, which sweep sequentially from the inside out for better visibility when turning.

Optional Matrix LEDs

Both light sources can also be replaced as an option by Matrix LED units comprising banks of LEDs capable of reacting individually to the presence of oncoming and leading cars. When high beam is activated and sensors detect cars in the vicinity they can dip or fully extinguish individual LEDs, directing corridors of light around the traffic to maintain maximum visibility of the road and surrounding environment without causing disruption to other drivers. The Matrix LED option also includes dynamic rear indicators for SE models.

An array of innovative optional driver assistance systems can also act as a second pair of eyes for the driver of the new Q7 during a wide range of everyday manoeuvres such as reversing out of a perpendicular parking space into moving traffic, pulling out of a junction into crossing traffic and exiting the car on a traffic-clogged road. Thanks to an evolution of adaptive cruise control incorporating a traffic jam assistant the Q7 can even take over steering duties on marked roads if traffic is moving at below 37mph.

Cabin space and the archetypal Audi quality of finish have always been Q7 virtues, and both are improved upon in the new model. Across the three rows of seats, upholstered in supple Twin leather in the SE or leather and Alcantara in the S line, headroom has increased for both front and second row passengers, and when the third row is surplus to requirements it can now be more easily stowed to make room for luggage thanks to a new powered folding mechanism which is standard. A total of 770 litres of luggage space is available when seven passengers are on board, or up to 1,955 litres if only the front seats are occupied.

Article source: www.audi.co.uk

Audi drive select integrates the technical components that determine the quality of the driving experience, the engine, transmission, steering (optional), shock absorbers (optional) and the sport differential (optional). 

Audi drive select enables drivers to adjust the characteristics of the technical components. 

Depending on their vehicle configuration these include the engine, transmission, steering, shock absorbers and the sport differential. Via a button on the centre console, the driver selects one of three modes for Audi drive select – 'comfort', 'auto' or 'dynamic' – for characteristics ranging from outstandingly comfortable to intensely sporty. 

In combination with the optional MMI, the driver can put together their own personal profile. Audi drive select is only available in conjunction with dynamic steering, damper control and/or sport differential.

Article source: www.audi.co.uk

Laser diodes emit a monochromatic and coherent light with a wavelength of 450 nanometers. Naturally presenting a bluish shimmer, a phosphor-coated film covers the diode, creating a white light suitable for automotive applications.Even smaller than LED diodes, they’re just a few micrometers in diameter and come very close to the theoretical ideal of a high-output, point light source for use in cars.

In the Audi Sport quattro laserlight concept show car, which Audi displayed at the CES, the high beam produced by the laser diodes is three times as bright as the LED high beam. Because the light beam is tightly bundled, laser diodes are not currently suitable for wide, low-beam light.

Article source: www.audi.co.uk

Lightweight and energy efficient OLED lights could signal the future of production rear lights and even brake lights or indicator units

  • Matrix OLED technology makes its debut in a concept car at the IAA
  • Light attains a new level of homogeneity
  • Flat light sources open up new design possibilities

Audi is presenting the next step in its pioneering automotive lighting programme at the IAA in Frankfurt. The Vorsprung durch Technik brand is forging ahead with new Matrix OLED lights that open up further creative opportunities for design due to their thin and flat composition and significantly increased homogeneity, which makes them even more adaptable within today’s lighting installations than point light sources like conventional LEDs.

As the leading brand in automotive lighting technology, Audi has systematically developed all aspects of OLED technology over the years. Matrix OLED lights are a perfect synthesis of high tech engineering and design – initial projects are currently underway to implement OLED technology in production rear lights. They are being shown for the first time in a concept car at the IAA.

In each Organic Light Emitting Diode or OLED unit, two electrodes – of which at least one must be transparent – incorporate numerous thin layers of organic semiconductor materials. A low DC voltage – between three and four volts – activates the layers, each of which is less than one thousandth of a millimetre thick, to light them. The colour is based on the molecular composition of the light source.

In contrast to point light sources – such as LEDs – which are made of semiconductor crystals, OLEDs are flat light sources. Their light attains a new level of homogeneity, and its dimming is continuously variable. The lights do not cast any shadows and do not require any reflectors, light guides or similar optical components – and this makes the OLED units efficient and lightweight. In addition, they hardly need any cooling.

Progress in OLED technology is being made rapidly – in part due to the driving force of Audi. As soon as further increases in light density are realised, OLEDs will soon be able to generate turn signal and brake lights too. The thin glass sheets that are used today to encase the organic material will be replaced by plastic films. These new flexible substrate materials will lend themselves to three dimensional forming, and this will open up entirely new creative spaces for designers.

Audi has already shown the potential of OLED technology in many models and demonstrators. Special highlights are “OLED lighting” with transparent, multi-colored OLEDs in the silhouette of the car and “the swarm” with a three-dimensional OLED display.

Another benefit of OLEDs is that they can be subdivided into small segments that can be controlled at different brightness levels. In addition, different colours and transparent OLED units will be possible. This enables new lighting scenarios with extremely fast switchover times. The illuminated sub-surfaces exhibit very precise boundaries with one another. This is what distinguishes OLED technology at Audi, transforming it into the Audi Matrix OLED technology that supplements Audi Matrix LED and Matrix Laser technologies for headlights.

Article source: www.audi.co.uk

The Audi quattro Cup is the largest amateur golf tournament worldwide. During 2014, Audi Centres from 52 different countries organised a total of 965 tournaments, with more than 100,000 amateur golfers participating.

Audi introduced the Audi quattro Cup in 1991 and it’s been running annually ever since. More than 1.4 million golfers have competed throughout the event's history, with participation numbers growing each time.

Article source: www.audi.co.uk