Audi is not saying whether the introduction of the new Q7 will usher out the Audi allroad crossover wagon, derived from the A6 Avant sport wagon. While the two vehicles are extremely different in purpose, if sales of the older model decline dramatically as the new model is selling well the allroad would likely be discontinued.
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| There has been no word from Audi on any additional Q7 engines, just the 4.2-liter V8. (Photo: Audi Canada) |
There is also no information on optional powertrains however. The Touareg is offered with Audi's 3.2-liter V6, coupled to the same sophisticated 6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission that controls the V8, as well as an extremely powerful turbodiesel V10. Audi may choose to offer an upgraded V6, similarly to what Porsche has done with its entry Cayenne, but if it chose to also retail the diesel it would be the first application of the fuel efficient engine-type ever sold under the German nameplate in North America. Likely is a 12-cylinder Q7, also becoming available in the Touareg.
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| With the high standard already set by VW's Touareg, can the Q7 be that much better to win over buyers at the expected higher price? (Photo: Audi Canada) |
Will the Q7 be as capable off-road as the Touareg or Cayenne. Again, not much is mentioned, but most likely Audi wouldn't want to be shown up by Volkswagen.
In the end, Volkswagen group will have two luxury SUVs targeting much the same audience. It will be difficult for the premium brand to beat the Touareg's fit and finish by any significant margin, as it is not only one of the best SUVs on the market but also features greater luxury and improvements in switchgear and tactile quality than some more expensive Audi products, and therefore the Q7 may be left fighting for customers on performance gains, higher tech electronics features as well as the marques prestigious brand name. Audi will launch the new Q7, with the V8 at least, in early 2006.