Audi is shrinking the Q7 SUV.
By reducing the size slightly and constructing the body with a mixture of high-strength steel and aluminum, the three-row SUV drops 716 pounds.
Audi plans a world debut for the vehicle Jan. 12 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
The Q7 has an ultra-high-strength steel backbone in what Audi calls the “occupant cell,” and aluminum castings, extruded sections and panels are used in the front and rear of the body.
Audi plans to offer a plug-in diesel hybrid version of the Q7 after the gasoline and diesel models are launched.
Two engines will be available -- a 3.0-liter supercharged gasoline V-6 and a 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel V-6. Audi says the Q7’s fuel economy will improve as much as 26 percent. All versions will be equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
To reduce weight, Audi used aluminum for the doors, fenders, hood and rear hatch -- saving more than 150 pounds. The doors alone shave 52 pounds off the curb weight.
The Q7 has an ultra-high-strength steel backbone in what Audi calls the “occupant cell,” and aluminum castings, extruded sections and panels are used in the front and rear of the body.
Audi plans to offer a plug-in diesel hybrid version of the Q7 after the gasoline and diesel models are launched.
