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Audi to launch Q7 Diesel and Q7 Hybrid this year in U.S.

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Khatir Soltani
German luxury automaker Audi yesterday announced plans to join the green SUV market with their Q7 model. A Q7 Hybrid will go on sale soon- joining other green SUV's like the Ford Escape Hybrid and Lexus RX400H.

The Q7 Hybrid will likely be the first of several such models- though Audi hasn't yet disclosed which other machines will run the advanced hybrid system which is being developed with Volkswagen and Porsche. The Q7 hybrid can run on electricity, gasoline or both, depending on the situation and driver intentions.

Audi's latest hybrid technology on display at the 2007 Frankfurt Auto Show.

In electric mode only, the Q7 can move as fast as about 60 kilometres per hour. During coasting when the 3.6 litre gasoline engine shuts off, this electric-only speed threshold is even higher so long as the driver doesn't press the accelerator. The added weight for the hybrid drive system in the Q7 is a reasonable 309 lbs, and Audi claims it will use about 23% less fuel than a gas-only model.

Additionally, U.S. shoppers can expect to see a diesel-powered Q7 variant in showrooms, powered by a 3.0 litre engine with about 230 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft of torque. A low-volume model, the Q7 diesel will go on sale later in 2008.
photo:Audi
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
As a car enthusiast, he tests and compares vehicles from different categories through the eyes of the consumer, ensuring relevant and objective reviews.
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada