This is only the third new Audi Q7 since 2005, and it still comes with diesel power.
The Audi Q7 is currently Audi's flagship SUV, although perhaps not for long – we understand an even bigger Audi Q9 is in development.
If you decide the Q7 is the big Audi for you, orders open in July and first deliveries are scheduled for September.
At launch, the Q7 is only available with a 299hp 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine, mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox and permanent quattro all-wheel drive. The engine now features Audi's MHEV Plus tech: a 48V mild-hybrid system plus a powertrain generator with an integrated electric motor. Parking and low-speed manoeuvring can be done on electric power. This will make the Q7 more efficient than before; you could potentially see 40mpg in careful driving, which is a good figure for a car this size.
Later on, Audi will introduce petrol and plug-in-hybrid engines to the new Q7 lineup, plus a range-topping SQ7 model with a more powerful engine. While most cars will come with seven seats, it's thought that the plug-in hybrid will continue to be sold as a five-seater, with the battery pack taking up space where the third row of seats would otherwise be.
The Q7 comes with adaptive air suspension as standard, plus four-wheel steering and 'trained' parking – meaning the car can learn somewhere you commonly park and automatically slot you in to the space.
You'll have spotted the Q7's big headlight units. These are immensely clever, with features such as illuminating pedestrians at night and connectivity with the driver assistance features. The indicators are beamed onto the floor to highlight an imminent change of direction, and the rear lights can change to communicate different things to road users behind – although we'll have to wait to see how obvious these are and whether you would understand what's going on.
Inside, the Q7 shares the same screen layout as other recent Audi models. A 12.3-inch digital driver's display and a 14.5-inch touchscreen are combined into one curving panel, and you can have an extra touchscreen for the passenger if you wish.
There aren't many physical controls – even the air vents are adjusted through the touchscreen – but the Q7's cabin impresses with wood, fabric and leather. Black plastic has been banished, thankfully. A new panoramic sunroof includes sections that can individually be made opaque or clear. The wireless phone chargers are magnetic, and you can opt for a 22-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system.
Average-sized adults should be able to fit in the third row, while the second row of seats looks very spacious indeed. Audi says the middle row can be tilted forward even with a child seat on (presumably one without a trailing leg), so you don't have to remove a booster seat every time you need access to the rear. As before, all passenger seats have Isofix points.
The Q7 will start from 'under £82,000' when orders open next month.
Once again, the Q7 will go up against the Mercedes GLE, Volvo XC90 and BMW X5.
Astonishing Audis available ASAP
Can't wait for the new Audi Q7? Shop used Audi Q7 cars for sale at Motorpoint, or read our Audi model guide.
