The new Audi Q7 is heading to the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit for its world premiere.
The second generation luxury SUV boasts significant weight savings and a lower centre of mass as well as an engine range that is, on average, 26 percent more fuel efficient than before. Thanks to the lower weight and more efficient drivetrains, the Q7's CO2 emissions is reduced by as much as 50g per kilometre.
Audi's expertise in lightweight construction is further demonstrated in the new Q7. Equipped with the 3.0-litre TDI engine, the new Audi Q7 tips the scales at just 1,995kg, which is 325kg lighter - the equivalent of a concert grand piano.
Lightweight construction has been applied in all areas, from the electrical system to the luggage compartment floor. The key is the body structure, where a new multimaterial design reduces its weight by 71kg. This places the new Q7 among the best in its segment.
Scheduled to follow shortly after the world debut is the Audi Q7 e-tron quattro - the world's first plug-in hybrid with a six-cylinder diesel engine and quattro all-wheel drive in the premium SUV segment. It impresses with a system output of 368bhp and 700Nm of torque, yet returning a fuel economy of 70.6km/L and less than 50g of CO2 per kilometre. It can also travel up to 56km on a single full charge.