2011 Audi Q7 Receives New Engines and Eight-Speed Trans

Audi has announced numerous mechanical changes for the 2011 Q7.

Primarily, the 3.6-liter V6 and 4.2-liter V8 have been replaced by a supercharged 3.0-liter TFSI V6. Available in 2 versions, the base 3.0-liter unit produces 200 kW (272 PS / 268 hp) as well as 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. It enables the Q7 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 7.9 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 222 km/h or 225 km/h with the optional adaptive air suspension.

The more influential 3.0-liter V6 is lifted from the S4 sedan, it produces 245 kW (333 PS / 329 hp) and 440 Nm (325 lb-ft) of torque. 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 6.9 seconds and the top speed is 243 km/h or 245 km/h with the adaptive air suspension.

Both engines are rated at 10.7 l/100km (21.98 US mpg) in the EU test cycle - an enhancement of 12 percent and 16 percent (over the previous engines).

If petrol isn't your thing, you will be glad to know Audi will offer a new 3.0-liter TDI. Having "effectively nothing in common with its predecessor", the engine cranks out 176 kW (240 PS / 236 hp) and 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) of torque. It enables the Q7 to accelerate from 0 to100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.9 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 215 km/h or 218 km/h with the adaptive air suspension and the fuel consumption is rated at 7.4 l/100 km (32 US mpg), an improvement of 19 percent.

All 3 engines are connected to a new 8-speed automatic. Based on the previous 6-speed unit, the 8-speed gearbox features an additional friction-clutch shift element for improved fuel efficiency.