Audi’s, fast-selling, mid-size, three-row Q7 SUV received a thorough mid-cycle update for the 2020 model year and the next 2021 Audi Q7 doesn’t have much room for the improvement. The upcoming version comes with a limited number of changes related to equipment availability and convenience features.
For the new model year, the Audi Q7 gets more standard safety equipment and the blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is now available from the entry-level trim. The model goes on sale in the Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige versions. The base trim’s Convenience package adds a surround-view camera system and heated steering wheel. The mid-grade trim will be available with the new Executive package that includes elements of the last model year’s Warm Weather, Cold Weather and Driver Assistance packages. The top-grade version gains heated rear seats and leather treated armrests and center console.
The 2021 version remains the same mechanically and visually. All models get Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system while two turbocharged engines provide more than adequate power. There are also optional four-wheel steering system and adaptive air suspension.
2021 Audi Q7: Design
The 2021 Audi Q7 will continue to live on the last model year’s styling updates and there won’t be any notable visual change until the next redesign.
The model has a more muscular presence thanks to the recent mid-cycle refresh. The Q7 has trapezoidal grille than mixes vertical slats and mesh pattern for a sportier appearance. The brand’s signature grille is flanked by the modern-looking headlights updated for the current season. Specific trims get LED matrix headlights with better illumination and reduced glare.
The profile of the model has sleek body lines while the rear features horizontally oriented design. The taillights have modern design updated last year and the quad exhaust setup contribute also to the model’s sports presence.
The wheel range starts at 19- inches and grows in upper grades to 20 and 21 inches.
Interior:
The cabin of the model is stylish and well-equipped from the entry-level version. There are no significant changes for the new model year.
The model starts with the leather upholstery and several premium convenience features. The base version goes also on sale with comfortable and heated front seats. The second row is also comfortable while the third row isn’t generously sized.
The model can be had with the upgraded heated and cooled Valcona leather seats with more power-adjustable options.
Every 2021 Audi Q7 gets also modern, dual-screen MMI infotainment system with navigation.
The cargo capacity is up to 70 cubic feet behind the first row. Behind the middle row, the cargo room measures 35 cubic feet.
Equipment:
The base Premium version comes with the hands-free tailgate, a panoramic sunroof, three-zone climate control, and leather upholstery. The entry-level Q7 gets also the brand’s advanced MMI infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen sitting above a smaller 8.6-inch unit that controls climate and vehicle settings.
Every Q7 comes also with an array of active safety systems including automatic emergency braking, active lane control, automatic high beams, a driver-attention monitor, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. This list can be upgraded with the optional systems such as adaptive cruise control, surround-vision camera system, traffic jam assist and traffic sign recognition.
The upper grades pack the most optional features by default and add more premium lather and sound system, ambient lighting and more.
2021 Audi Q7: Performance
The 2021 Audi Q7 goes on sale with three familiar turbocharged engines and standard Quattro all-wheel drive. Every version relies on an 8-speed automatic transmission. The Audi Q7 uses a four-wheel independent suspension system and there is upgrade to the air suspension.
The entry-level performance delivers a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine good for 248 hp and torque of 273 lb-ft.
The next-level power provides a 3.0-liter turbocharged V-6 engine capable of delivering 335 hp and torque of 369 lb-ft.
For even better performance, the Audi SQ7 relies on the mighty 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 engine. This version has 500 hp and 568 lb-ft of torque at disposal.
The Q7 can tow up to 7, 700 pounds.
At the efficiency level, the turbo-4 equipped version will provide 21 mpg combined. A more powerful turbo-6 powered Q7 will manage 18 mpg combined.
2021 Audi Q7: Release, Price
The 2021 Audi Q7 will go on sale later in the year. The price range will start from $55, 945.