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2017 Audi Q7 now available with 2.0-liter TFSI turbo-charged four-cylinder engine; lower entry point to premium SUV

Audi of America is offering a new 2.0-liter TFSI four-cylinder engine on 2017 Audi Q7 models. This new model, when equipped with the 2.0-liter engine, is half a second faster on the 0-60 mph sprint; nearly 500 pounds lighter; and up to 22% more fuel-efficient than the previous generation Q7 3.0T V6.

With the 2.0 TFSI, Audi is creating a value proposition that makes entry into the luxury full-size SUV more accessible. The starting MSRP ($49,000) (Premium trim) is $5,800 below the current entry point of $54,800 for the Premium 3.0 TFSI; pricing for the 2.0L Premium Plus trim starts at $53,000 ($1,800 below the current entry point and $5,800 below the Premium Plus 3.0 TFSI). The specifications of the 2.0- and 3.0-liter engined cars are virtually the same except for the engine; the inlays which are a mix of aluminum and wood on the lower and upper dash vs all wood; and 18-inch wheels instead of 19-inch wheels.

With 252 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, the Q7 with 2.0T engine reaches 60 mph a half-second faster than the previous generation 2015 Q7 3.0T V6 model. The Q7, with standard seating for up to seven passengers and quattro all-wheel drive, is also 22% more fuel efficient, with an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city/highway combined. And while it is nearly 500 pounds lighter than the previous model, the Q7 2.0T has 4,400 pounds of towing capacity with the optional towing package.

The redesigned 2.0T engine stands out for its exceptional driving dynamics and efficiency. Based on the Millerized 2.0L turbo introduced in 2015 on the A4 (earlier post), the engine features enhancements to the exhaust manifold integration; improvements to the Audi valvelift system; and the use of innovative thermal management, all helping to reduce fuel consumption and improve overall engine efficiency.

2017 Premium 2.0 TFSI 2015 Premium 3.0T 2017 Premium 3.0 TFSI
Power 252 hp 280 hp 333 hp
Torque 273 lb-ft 295 lb-ft 325 lb-ft
Transmission 8-speed Tiptronic with quattro all-wheel drive
0-60 mph 7.2 sec 7.7 sec 5.7 sec
Towing capacity 4,400 lbs 5,500 7,700 lbs
Fuel economy (comb.) 22 mpg 18 mpg 21 mpg
Base MSRP $49,000 $48,300 $54,800

Carrying over from the 3.0-liter engine, the Q7’s eight-speed Tiptronic transmission melds efficiency with dynamic shifting characteristics to help optimize fuel consumption. Improved handling and comfort enhancements have been made possible through the reduced unsprung weight of lightweight aluminum control arm components and revised elastokinematic attributes.

While the exterior dimensions have remained similar to the outgoing model, all 2017 Q7 models offer substantially more interior space—with more headroom, legroom and shoulder room in the second and third rows. The Q7 also offers the latest MMI and infotainment options including Bose 3D Sound System and the available Audi virtual cockpit (earlier post) which helps make viewing and navigating via the large Google Map images supported with 4G LTE (where available) easier on the driver’s eyes.

In addition to infotainment and connectivity features, the advanced Q7 driver assistance systems are designed to help drivers navigate the road and traffic with confidence. Standard Audi pre sense city, an automatic emergency braking system, can detect stationary vehicles and pedestrians and if necessary, initiating full braking at speeds of up to 52 mph when a potential collision is detected. Available adaptive cruise control with stop & go automatically maintains distance from the vehicle in front, including braking and accelerating. Between 0-40 mph, traffic jam assist combines acceleration, braking and steering guidance, which can help take the stress out of driving in congested traffic.

The Model year 2017 Q7 with available 2.0-liter engine will go on sale in early 2017.

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