Facelifted Audi Q7 Begins Rolling Out Ahead Of Likely January 2022 Launch

• Will gets a bolder front bumper, snazzier lighting, and new alloy wheels.

• Features will include a 10.1-inch MMI touchscreen, digital driver’s display, a Bang and Olufsen sound system and a panoramic sunroof.

• Petrol engine to be a 340PS 3-litre motor with mild-hybrid tech, paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission driving all four wheels.

• Prices likely to start from Rs 80 lakh (ex-showroom, India).

After the Q5 SUV returned to India, Audi is set to bring back the Q7 SUV via a midlife refresh. And now, the carmaker has begun local assembly of the full-size SUV at the Skoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited (SAVWIPL) plant in Aurangabad ahead of its expected January 2022 launch timeline.

With the update, the Audi Q7 sheds the estate-like identity from before and goes for a more SUV-like look. The front grille is larger, and flanked by snazzier LED headlights. The air dams are a bit busier than before with more slats added onto it. The other changes will be limited to new alloy wheels and updated tail lamps and rear bumper. 

The cabin is where the Q7 will get the biggest changes, with a new dashboard layout being more in line with its larger sibling the Q8. It’s got three digital screens comprising the 10.1-inch MMI touchscreen infotainment system, the digital driver’s display, and climate controls. It will be packed with features such as a Bang and Olufsen sound system, panoramic sunroof, four-zone climate control, and an electric tailgate.   

Passenger safety should be taken care of by multiple airbags, electronic stability control, front and rear parking sensors, a parking camera, and a tyre pressure monitor. We also hope it comes with a raft of assists including adaptive cruise control, adaptive speed assist, active lane assist, and emergency assist.

Unlike the mode before it, the 2021 Q7 will be a petrol-only offering. It will have a 3-litre petrol engine developing 340PS and 500Nm with a  48v mild hybrid system offering torque assist under hard acceleration. It will be paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drivetrain.

Expect the facelifted Audi Q7 to be priced from 80 lakh (ex-showroom) and take on the Mercedes-Benz GLE, BMW X5, and Volvo XC90