So far, the Q7 Hybrid is a one-off test bed for Volkswagen-Audi technology, and a guide for gauging market
interest. But like Mercedes-Benz, with its new-shape M-Class hybrid, it will maintain its concept status until the green light has officially been given. Of course, the fact that Porsche has announced that it will be producing a hybrid Cayenne, co-developed with Volkswagen and Audi, should help doubters accept that this electrified Q7 is no fantasy project.
Interestingly, Audi's new hybrid sport utility vehicle actually marks the return of the four rings to hybrid technology. In 1989 an experimental Audi 100 Avant was created, while several TDI-powered Audi 90 Avants were fitted with hybrid powertrains in 1997 for a limited scale production run. Audi's Q7 shows that the brand has come a long way since then, even if it's "just a concept".
Specifications:
Body Type: 5-door SUV, unibody
Layout: front engine, AWD
Gasoline Engine: 350-hp, 325 lb-ft of torque, 4.2L, 48-valve, DOHC V8
Electric Motor: 32 Kw (43 hp) motor with 148 lb-ft of torque
Combined Gasoline-Electric Hybrid Output (estimated): 378-hp, 473 lb-ft of torque
Acceleration (0-60 mph): 6.7 seconds
Transmission: Electronically-Controlled Continuously Variable (ECVT)
Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
Seating Capacity: 7
Fuel Economy (combined city/hwy): 19.6 mpg
Emissions Rating (estimated): SULEV / Tier 2/Bin 3 and Zero evap
Potential Competitors: Lexus RX 400h, Mercedes-Benz M-Class Hybrid, Porsche Cayenne Hybrid, Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid
Web Site: www.audiusa.com
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| Of course, the fact that Porsche has announced that it will beproducing a hybrid Cayenne, co-developed with Volkswagen and Audi,should help doubters accept that this electrified Q7 is no fantasyproject. (Photo: Audi of America) |
Interestingly, Audi's new hybrid sport utility vehicle actually marks the return of the four rings to hybrid technology. In 1989 an experimental Audi 100 Avant was created, while several TDI-powered Audi 90 Avants were fitted with hybrid powertrains in 1997 for a limited scale production run. Audi's Q7 shows that the brand has come a long way since then, even if it's "just a concept".
Specifications:
Body Type: 5-door SUV, unibody
Layout: front engine, AWD
Gasoline Engine: 350-hp, 325 lb-ft of torque, 4.2L, 48-valve, DOHC V8
Electric Motor: 32 Kw (43 hp) motor with 148 lb-ft of torque
Combined Gasoline-Electric Hybrid Output (estimated): 378-hp, 473 lb-ft of torque
Acceleration (0-60 mph): 6.7 seconds
Transmission: Electronically-Controlled Continuously Variable (ECVT)
Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
Seating Capacity: 7
Fuel Economy (combined city/hwy): 19.6 mpg
Emissions Rating (estimated): SULEV / Tier 2/Bin 3 and Zero evap
Potential Competitors: Lexus RX 400h, Mercedes-Benz M-Class Hybrid, Porsche Cayenne Hybrid, Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid
Web Site: www.audiusa.com
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