2016 Audi Q7 Revealed Before Detroit Debut

Audi’s latest Q7 SUV has been fully revealed before it takes center stage at the brand’s booth at the 2015 Detroit Auto Show.

New from the ground up, the Q7 has shed roughly 716 pounds compared to its predecessor thanks to the use of lightweight materials like aluminum, and now weighs in with a curb weight of 4,398 pounds when equipped with the small diesel engine.

Three powertrains will be available, a 3.0-liter TDI with 272 hp, a 3.0-liter TFSI engine that makes 333 hp and finally an all-new diesel plug-in hybrid variant that offers 373 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. A full charge will get the SUV 34 miles of all-electric driving range. Audi says that the diesel engine is expected to be 23 percent more efficient than the previous generation while the gas engine will be about 26 percent more efficient.

SEE ALSO: Audi Q7 Plug-In Diesel Coming to US

Of course, the Q7 has an all-new look as well along with four new color options. While the exterior dimensions have been made slightly smaller, the interior volume has been increased. Audi says all passengers have more head and leg room, while the cargo capacity sits at 10.4 cu ft with the seats in the upright position.

Technology in the new Q7 includes Audi’s new MMI infotainment system along with the brand’s new virtual cockpit. A large touchpad in the center console allows the driver to control the center-mounted screen, while even backseat passengers get a tablet to control their individual climate and entertainment settings. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will be available with the Q7 for further smartphone integration.

Audi’s latest adaptive cruise control complete with the traffic jam assistant which fully drives the vehicle in stop-and-go traffic is also available.

Watch for live coverage of the Audi Q7’s debut from the upcoming 2015 Detroit Auto Show.