work on the next Audi Q7 continues apace, with two heavily disguised variants caught testing by our spy photographers on the continent.
One shakedown seemed to be a fairly conventional high-altitude run in southern Europe, but what looks like a plug-in hybrid model, complete with suggestive electrical safety badges, was also snapped lapping the Nurburgring.
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These images are the best indication we’ve had so far that Audi plans to add an e-tron powertrain to the Q7 line-up, alongside revised 3.0-litre and 4.2-litre TDIs, 3.0-litre and 4.0-litre turbo petrols, and possibly a new entry-level four-cylinder diesel. Each engine setup is expected to come with four-wheel drive and an eight-speed car gearbox.
New MLB-based underpinnings will feature, too – made up of steel and aluminium, it ought to help account for weight reductions in the region of 350kg, as well as discussing a small increase in width. The next Porsche Cayenne and forthcoming Bentley SUV will also use a version of this platform.
As you can see, visual changes are still very much under wraps, but even Audi’s deceptive camouflage can’t conceal a much more compact front end, complete with narrow headlights, trapezoidal grille and revised intakes. round the back there’s the same broad tailgate, although this now flows into a less pronounced rear bumper, resulting in a smoother overall look.
Audi isn’t giving much away at this stage, but the Q7 is on course for a full reveal towards the middle of next year, with prices expected to start from around £45,000.
