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New Audi Q7 goes on a 325kg diet

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Audi Q7

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19 December 2014

Audi Q7
Slim-fast – The Q7 sheds a whopping 325kg compared with earlier models

New Audi Q7 factfile

  • 3.0 TDI engine – 272PS
  • 0-62mph in 6.3secs
  • Economy of 47.8mpg
  • CO2 emissions  of 153g/km
  • Company car tax band 2015/16 of 28%

AUDI will unveil an all-new next-generation Q7 at next month’s Detroit Motor Show.

The big news – a huge 325 kg weight saving compared with the previous models, and a host of other efficiency measures designed to boost economy and performance.

Some versions of the new car will squeeze below the 2,000kg mark, a remarkable figure for a large SUV, particularly one such as the Audi Q7 which has previously often been criticised for its size and bulk.

The key to the weight saving is the body structure, where a new “multimaterial” design saves 71 kilograms. Ultra-high-strength parts made of hot-shaped steel form the backbone of the passenger compartment, while aluminium castings, extruded sections and panels are used in the front and rear ends as well as the superstructure. The doors are also made entirely of aluminium, saving a further 24 kilograms, as are the front wings, the bonnet and the rear hatch.

The new Audi Q7 will arrive in the UK in the summer of 2015. Initially, all UK cars will be fitted with the 3.0 TDI engine with 272 PS, which is capable of taking the Q7 from 0 to 62 mph in 6.3 seconds with a combined fuel consumption of up to 47.8 mpg and CO2 emissions of 153 g/km – a 28% company car tax banding for 2015/16. Compare that to the current car, which has CO2 emissions of 195g/km and a benefit in kind company car tax banding of 37% for the same period. Some weight saving – some company car tax saving!

A less powerful 3.0 TDI with 218 PS and better fuel consumption and emissions will follow at a later date.
Audi is also promising a plug-in hybrid version, the Audi Q7 e-tron quattro, which is expected to return up to 166 mpg with CO2 emissions of less than 50 g/km. The lithium-ion batteries can store 17.3 kWh of energy, providing a range of up to 34.8 miles in pure electric mode.

Audi Q7

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