The Audi Q7 is one of the most refined and opulent SUVs on the market. It offers world-class styling, a plush cabin, and amenities galore—not to mention a 280 horsepower engine that launches the Q7 in a rocket-like fashion. Unfortunately, the Q7’s fuel economy is dismal. The average city/highway EPA-rating for the 3.6-liter Q7 is 16 mpg, making Audi Q7—the largest of all Audis—about as eco-unfriendly as a vehicle can get. Audi is attempting to nullify the green penalty when it releases the hybrid version of the Q7 in late 2008.
Audi’s full hybrid system, developed in partnership with Porsche and Volkswagen, will utilize the same 3.6-liter powerplant found in the current model. The gas engine-electric motor combination will offer various enhancements over the standard powertrain. The hybrid system will add an extra 50 horsepower thanks to the electric motor, which will draw its energy from a 288-volt nickel metal hydride battery pack. That means more torque and more pulling power. The seven-seat Audi Q7 Hybrid is expected to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than 8 seconds.
The pairing of this hybrid system to Audi’s advanced quattro all-wheel-drive system will make the Q7 one of the most stylish, capable, all-condition, full-size hybrids on the market. Porsche is likely to introduce its Cayenne Hybrid a year or two after the Q7 Hybrid arrives on the scene.
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