By Sala Masindane

Although we are behind the international market (that’s probably due the current pandemic and internal process), Audi has finally taken off the covers of the facelifted Q7 and we were part of the contingent to drive the larger than life SUV at launch.

What’s New?

The enhancements are notable with an aggressive front that bears an octagon shaped singleframe grille with six upright slats that firm up the proportions of the updated Q7, making it  appear more muscular. If ticked, Audi’s Matrix LED headlights will provide better illumination of the road. The rear has been restyled with a striking chrome strip that will bring the Q7 in line with Audi’s newer models. This connects the rear lights with their technical graphics. This is rounded off by the 19-inch allow wheels.

The option of the S Line exterior enhancements can make your Audi Q7 even more striking. These will include a blade in the front bumper, radiator grille in titanium black with vertical slats in aluminium sliver matte, sportily accentuated underbody protection at the rear along with full paint finish, high gloss package, roof rails in aluminium and 20-inch wheels which all come standard.

Interior

Inside, the large SUV has grown 11 millimetres to 5,063 millimetres long. The cockpit gains a new infotainment system with dual touchscreens. This is a fully digital operating system with MMI touch. The driver benefits from a virtual cockpit and MMI navigation Plus. The new Q7 will also come standard with the Audi Connect which includes:

• Car2X service (safety and service) in the event of emergency;
• Connected infotainment, navigation, weather and traffic; and
• Remote features and functionality through myAudi app.

Other comfort features include four-zone automatic air conditioning and an optional Bang & Olufsen 3D Premium Sound System.

Overall

The local market will get one engine in the range being the 3-litre V6 45 TDI quattro engine. It produces 183kW and 600Nm. The engine is paired with an 8-speed Tiptronic transmission.

The overall look of the Q7 is new and modern. The touchscreen system can be distracting to use while driving. Depending on which one you opt for, buyers of the updated Audi Q7 can choose from the 5 or 7-seater configuration. The former will offer between 865 and 2,050-litres of luggage space.

The Q7 offers supreme levels of comfort and the V6 carries it rather effortlessly. The ride is also smooth and comfortable ensuring your family will love being in the car for long hours moving through long distances. The standard 19-inch wheels can show a bit of discomfort on rough surfaces but that is a slight on the state of our roads rather than the German premium SUV.

Local Packages

The updated Audi Q7 will be offered in a new package concept for the upcoming models. This will assist with the complexity of ordering a new vehicle for potential customers. It groups all the classes of key options according to a specific customer. The packages include Comfort, Black Styling and S Line interior.

Pricing, Warranty and Maintenance

Pricing of the updated Q7 is as below:

Audi Q7 45 TDI Quattro Tiptronic                                  R1,328,500

Audi Q7 45 TDI Quattro S line Tiptronic                        R1,388,500

Both models come standard with a 5 year / 100,000km Audi Freeway plan.