For 2018, the Audi Q7 moves into its second year following a major redesign that gave this mid-crossover a new look, but also, more importantly, a new architecture that allowed the manufacturer to cut this big utility's curb weight by up to 300 kg.
That was what allowed Audi to introduce a new entry-level model powered by the brand's 2.0L TFSI turbocharged four-cylinder engine. That motor is well known in Audi circles, but never before has it been asked to haul around so large a vehicle. But while its 252 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque don't sound like a lot, this 2.0L has always punched above its weight, performance-wise.
The news for 2018 is minor: the mid-range Progressiv trim gains blind spot warning and pre-sense rear, a system that detects probably rear-end collisions and takes measures to mitigate potential injuries to those in the car. And in the top-end Technik model, the Audi Connect suite of smartphone interface, concierge service and security features is now standard.
Audi has four-cylinder company in this class in the form of Volvo's XC90, but those two are about it if the idea of a roomy luxury crossover with four-banger power appeals to you: Competitive three-row models from Mercedes-Benz, Land Rover, Infiniti and Acura all come with V6 power as standard.
Naturally, there's a six-cylinder on offer in the Q7, too, a 3.0L V6 that makes 333 hp and 325 lb-ft. Both come hooked up to an eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi's Quattro AWD system as standard.
We suspect the inclusion of the four-cylinder has more to do with allowing Audi to offer a lower base price, as that smaller engine's fuel consumption estimates aren't much lower than those for the V6: 11.9/9.6 L/100 km (city/highway) for the 2.0L versus 12.6/9.4 for the V6.
The four-cylinder is available in Komfort and Progressiv trims, while the V6 is the only one on offer in the top Technik model.
The Q7 starts out in Komfort trim, with features like 19-inch wheels and tires, heated steering wheel, power front seats with memory and driver four-way lumbar, three-zone climate control, leather seating, power tailgate, pre-sense basic, panoramic sunroof, heated side mirrors with power-fold feature, front and rear parking sensors and xenon self-levelling headlights with washers.
Progressiv models add a 360-degree camera system, four-zone climate control, heated rear seats and ventilated front chairs, passive keyless entry, auto-dimming rearview and side mirrors, smartphone integration, navigation, electric-adjustable steering wheel, four-way power front passenger lumbar and Audi's slick virtual cockpit digital gauge cluster.
Finally, Technik trim adds 20-inch wheels, LED headlights, Audi connect and a Bose 3D surround-sound stereo.
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