Audi updates Q7 and Q8 SUV flagships

BY PETER BARNWELL | 16th Jul 2024

AUDI Audi Australia has announced details of its revised Q7 SUV and Q8 Coupe-SUV large SUVs with prices starting from $117,284 for the Q7 45 TDI quattro and up to from $178,815 for the SQ8 TFSI quattro, all excluding on-road costs.

Competitors include the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class and the BMW X5 and X6 models.

Audi says the “popular” large SUVs features several enhancements to their design, styling, and technology integration along with improvements to their performance.

The revised range is already available and is said to highlight Audi's “dedication to delivering innovative technology and considered mobility solutions to the Australian market”.

What we are looking at are revised Q7 in the 45 TDI, 50 TDI S line, and 55 TFSI S line variants while the Q8 will be available in the 50 TDI S line, 55 TFSI S line, and an updated plug-in hybrid 60 TFSI e S line.

Topping out the portfolio are the sporty SQ7 TFSI and SQ8 TFSI models, with an even higher performance RS Q8 due later.

Starting with the Q7, we find it has undergone design, comfort, and technology updates with the 45 TDI, 50 TDI S line sharing the same 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine with mild-hybrid (MHEV) technology rated at 170kW/500Nm and 210kW/600Nm respectively with the 55 TFSI S line running a turbocharged 3.0-litre petrol V6 rated at 250kW/500Nm again with mild-hybrid (MHEV) technology.

Its external appearance has been revised incorporating a redesigned Singleframe grille with an octagon shape mesh and vertical inlays, modified front air inlets and new headlight graphics. Down back, the bumper and diffuser have been re-sculpted.

New available colours include Ascari Blue, Sakhir Gold, and Chilli Red to go with new alloy wheel designs.

The cabin has been upgraded with new materials and finishes providing what Audi says is a more refined and upscale environment. A versatile seating configuration can accommodate up to seven passengers, offering ample legroom and cargo space, ensuring comfort on long journeys.

In technological terms, the Q7 now includes an enhanced MMI touch response system which features more intuitive controls and expanded connectivity options.

Central is the Audi virtual cockpit that has been updated to offer high-resolution displays and customisable information screens, making it easier for drivers to access crucial information.

On the safety side, the Q7 is equipped with advanced driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise assist, emergency assist, and intersection assist, and for the first time in the range(s), traffic sign recognition.

Adding to the comfort factor is adaptive air suspension included as standard across the line-up for Australia as is quattro all-wheel drive.

Moving to the higher performance SQ7, we find it is powered by a 4.0-litre V8 TFSI (turbo injected petrol) engine outputting 373kW and 770Nm of torque capable of propelling the big SUV from 0-100km/h in 4.1 seconds.

Over the Q7, the SQ7 has improved driving dynamics through tweaked adaptive air suspension and quattro aided optionally by a sport differential when the Dynamic Package is chosen while exterior styling has a sporty flavour with S-specific bumpers, quad exhaust tailpipes and red brake callipers, which emphasise its performance credentials.

Inside gets a similar sporty flavour with S sport seats, contrast diamond patterned stitching and high-quality inlays in matte brushed aluminium with linear embossing creating a sophisticated and sporty interior.

Like the ‘lesser’ model, the SQ7 includes the latest MMI touch response system with dual displays, Audi Virtual Cockpit and a Bang & Olufsen 3D Premium Sound System; not forgetting the advanced driver assistance systems including traffic sign recognition for the first time on this model.

Regarding the Q8 we note similar enhancements in design and technology as the Q7 reinforcing its status as a flagship luxury SUV in 50 TDI S line and 55 TFSI S line that share the same turbo-diesel and turbo-petrol powertrains as the comparable Q7s.

The exterior has what Audi calls a “more expressive front end” featuring a new octagonal Singleframe grille and redesigned air intakes that give a bolder and dynamic appearance… with something similar at the rear with its new light strip and reworked diffuser.

A key highlight for this models’ comprehensive update is the introduction of innovative lighting technology. The Q8 now offers digital matrix LED headlights said to not only improve safety but also add a distinctive visual element to the vehicle.

As expected, the Q8 and SQ8 will emulate the (possibly defunct) Q8 e-tron featuring the new Audi corporate identity with a two-dimensional, flat design of the rings on both the front and rear. Also new is the model’s name designation etched on the vehicle B-pillar.

Like the Q7, inside the coupe style Q8 we find the cabin has been upgraded with new materials and finishes, including high-quality leather and wood trim options, the Q8 equipped with the latest MMI touch response system featuring dual high-resolution screens that provide intuitive control of the vehicle's functions.

The Audi virtual cockpit offers sharper displays and customisation options while a comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise assist, lane departure warning, and traffic sign recognition is fitted as standard.

Nestling within the Q8 range is the plug-in hybrid 60 TFSI e S line that combines a 3.0L V6 TFSI engine with a powerful electric motor, delivering a total system output of 360kW capable of pushing the model from 0-100km/h in 5.0 seconds.

Equipped with a largish 25.9kWh lithium-ion battery, the PHEV has an electric-only range of up to 74km (WLTP)with charging options including standard household outlets, wall boxes, and public charging stations.

It is denoted externally by specific badging and a charging port.

Inside, the 60 TFSI e S line features Audi's latest technological advancements and luxury accoutrement as per the other Q8 models.

Finally, the SQ8 performance/luxury coupe SUV reflects similar spec’ as the SQ7 in a fastback idiom instead of a boxy wagon running the same 4.0-litre V8 twin turbo petrol engine, with similar performance credentials, drive feel, and safety kit along with all-wheel steering (and quattro).

“The new Q7 and Q8 range epitomises Audi’s dedication to continuous improvement and performance, particularly in the areas of design, technology, and efficiency,” said Audi Australia director Jeff Mannering.

“These vehicles are not just evolutions of their predecessors; they represent a step forward in our commitment to a premium driving experience.”

The SQ7 and SQ8 models are arriving now to be followed soon by the Q7 and Q8.

2024 Audi Q7 pricing*: