2007 Audi Q7 Preview Update

But size isn't the only area where the Q7 will differ from the Touareg and Cayenne. The key difference is that Audi will not be fitting it with the same heavy-duty

At higher speeds, the optional ride height adjustable air suspension system automatically lowers, reducing the centre of gravity and coefficient of drag. (Photo: Audi Canada)

equipment which the Cayenne or Touareg has. The grounds for this decision are based on making the Q7 one of the best handling sport utility vehicles on the market. By reducing weight, on-road performance, handling and better fuel consumption are expected. The optional ride height adjustable air suspension system allows the Q7 to vary its ground clearance, as it does in the Touareg and Cayenne. At higher speeds, it automatically lowers, reducing the centre of gravity and coefficient of drag. When called upon, the system can also be raised to provide extra ground clearance or lowered to assist in loading heavy objects into the trunk.

The heart of the Q7's traction system will not be the typical heavy-duty part-time transfer case with locking hubs and differentials. Instead, its system

The Q7's traction system is comprised of the same Torsen permanent all-wheel drive as used in the RS4 Quattro high performance sedan, with a 40:60 rear-wheel drive bias in normal driving conditions. (Photo: Audi Canada)

is comprised of the same Torsen permanent all-wheel drive system as used in the RS4 Quattro high performance sedan, with a 40:60 rear-wheel drive bias in normal driving conditions. Audi has cleverly integrated a form of hill descent control into the Q7's electronic stability control program allowing it to tackle steep inclines with little trouble. The ESP also features a trailer stabilization system that automatically applies the vehicle's brakes, intervening to stop a fishtailing trailer.

At launch, the Q7 will be offered with two large engines, a 3.0-litre TDI turbodiesel and a 4.2-litre FSI V8, the latter bound for North American markets. The piezo-injector diesel engine generates 230-horsepower, backed by an impressive 369 lb-ft of torque. As for gasoline-power, the V8's big displacement generates 345 horsepower pavement-conquering horses, boosted by FSI direct injection technology. This is the same engine featured in the latest V8-powered A6 and A8 models. Eventually, Audi will add an entry-level 3.2-litre FSI V6 and range-topping 4.2-litre V8 TDI, but that won't be until later in the year. All engines will be mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox before being routed through the brand's legendary Quattro all-wheel drive system.