Audi’s desire to fill every possible car and engine gap looks set to continue with a new entry level diesel that’s now available in the Q7.
Producing 201bhp, this latest 3.0-litre TDI engine will sit alongside the 242bhp version currently available in the big off-roader. Despite the lower power it will still go from 0-62mph in a relatively rapid 9.1 seconds, around 1.2 seconds slower than the higher-powered version. It also comes fitted with the manufacturer’s eight-speed tiptronic automatic gearbox, as found in the current diesel models.
The trade-off from the drop in power is improved economy, up from 38.2mpg to 39.2mpg. Emissions also fall, from 195g/km of CO2 to 189g/km of CO2. You’re unlikely to see any major savings, however. Firstly, both fall into tax band J meaning you’ll pay £245 per in road tax, whichever model you go for. At the same time you’re unlikely to benefit much from a 1mpg difference.
The new engine will be available in S, SE and S Line trim as well as the new S Line Plus spec. Buyers opting for this new trim level will get 21-inch alloys, metallic paint, privacy glass from B-pillar back and electronically powered boot opening as standard.
On the inside, S Line Plus buyers get an upgrade to Verano leather upholstery as well as hard disk sat nav, Bluetooth connectivity, access to Google mapping and Wi-Fi for in-car internet browsing, an Audi music interface with iPod connection, an upgraded stereo and parking sensors with a reversing camera.
The S Line Plus model carries a £4,500 premium over the standard S Line option, and it’s available with a total of five engines including the new entry level diesel.
This latest Q7 model is available to order now with prices starting at £39,995 for the S spec model, rising to £49,120 for the S Line Plus version.