We first saw the 2010 Audi Q7 when it made its debut at the 2009 Shanghai Motor Show in April. The facelifted Q7 may not look much different from the current model at the first glance, but look a little closer and you’ll notice a slightly redesigned front end with new LED headlamps, chrome trims, new wheel designs and an updated front and rear bumper.

The U.S. will get a 3.6L FSI V6, a 4.2L FSI V8 along with a 3.0L V6 TDI clean-diesel. The 2010 Q7 TDI returns an estimated fuel economy of 17/25 mpg (city/highway) and more than 600 miles on a full tank.

2010 Audi Q7 (excluding $825 destination charge, taxes, title, options and dealer charges):
2010 Q7 3.6 quattro (Tiptronic): $46,900
2010 Q7 TDI® quattro (Tiptronic): $50,900
2010 Q7 4.2 quattro (Tiptronic): $61,000

Sales will begin next month.

Click through for the high-res image gallery.

2010 Audi Q7:

Press Release:

Audi sets 2010 MY availability and pricing for its redesigned Q7 models

- Distinctive new LED front and rear lighting complemented by exterior updates
- 2010 Q7 models include 3G MMI 3D navigation screen and SIRIUS traffic
- Interior enhancements include additional ambient lighting, decorative inlays and available ventilated front seats

HERNDON, Va., Aug 25, 2009 – Audi today announced the U.S. manufacturer’s suggested retail prices for its redesigned 2010 Q7 models, scheduled to arrive at U.S. Audi dealers in September 2009.

The modern philosophy of the new Audi Q7 reflects the attention to detail requested by customers, especially with markedly updated exterior and interior features. The 2010 Q7 lineup presents the most innovative execution to date of the Audi signature LED lighting. The redesigned Q7 SUVs offer standard LED taillights with available LED turn signals and daytime running lights.

Exterior enhancements include a new wheel program, updated front and rear bumpers, distinctive new front headlamps and tail lights, single frame grille in gloss black with vertical chrome strips, exterior mirror housings, and a new lower body panel strategy featuring contrast paint for the Q7 3.6 quattro, full body paint with Chrome package on the Q7 TDI quattro clean diesel, and S line treatment on the Q7 4.2 quattro. The equipment packages for the 2010 Q7 3.6 quattro and the 2010 Q7 TDI begin at the Premium level, while the 2010 Q7 4.2 quattro starts with the Prestige level packaging.

The Q7 3.6 quattro comes equipped with the V6 3.6 FSI engine, the Q7 TDI quattro comes with the 3.0 TDI clean diesel engine, while the Q7 4.2 employs the V8 4.2 FSI engine. Now all of the Q7 engine offerings meet stringent California ULEV emissions regulations.

Interior upgrades include optional ventilated front seats, a new decorative inlay on the passenger side of the dashboard, additional ambient lighting on all four doors, an upgraded MMI system, additional interior chrome accents, and a new instrumentation font.

The redesigned 2010 Audi Q7 features technological advancements as available features that enhance both interior and performance luxury. The 3G MMI (Multi Media Interface) provides richly detailed 3D map courtesy of an automotive grade NVIDIA^TM chip for graphics processing, along with SIRIUS® traffic and joystick control. The system also features voice-based destination input control and voice inputs, such as “I’m hungry,” “I need gas” and “I need coffee” that will point to the closest options.

Audi Q7 is also one of the safest SUVs on the road with a NHTSA 5-star crash safety rating and IIHS “Top Safety Pick” designation. Safety continues to be a top priority for Audi, which offers more models earning “Top Safety Pick” recognition from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety than any other German luxury car brand.*

In Spring 2009, Audi launched its first-ever TDI clean diesel model in the United States in the form of an Audi Q7 TDI. Using the long-standing 20-year expertise of the Audi brand with TDI Power, this vehicle uses an innovative system that provides ULEV (Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle) clean emissions available in all 50 U.S. states. In addition, this vehicle provides over 600 miles per tankful in highway driving and has an EPA fuel economy estimate of 17 mpg for city driving and 25 mpg for highway driving, which equates to 30% better fuel economy than a comparable V6 gasoline engine. Audi has a history of refined TDI clean diesel performance engines with the Le Mans-winning R10 TDI race car that won all three 24 Hours of Le Mans races from 2006-2008 in which it competed. The Audi Q7 TDI qualifies for a $1,150 Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit from the Internal Revenue Service for a limited time due to the fuel efficiency and reduced greenhouse gas emissions of its clean diesel technology.

Audi is also the first car company in the United States to equip 100% of its gasoline engines with FSI direct injection technology beginning with model year 2010. Audi began racing with FSI direct injection technology in 2000 at the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the American Le Mans Series with the R8 FSI prototype racing sports car. Once this technology first became available for U.S. Audi customers in late 2004 with the introduction of the 2005 A6 3.2 FSI quattro, the list of Audi vehicles sold in the U.S. with FSI direct injection technology has continued to grow.

- By: Stephen Calogera

We’ve seen all the press shots of the 2010 Audi Q7 and earlier this week we saw live shots from the 2009 Shanghai Motor Show. Well, now its time to see the facelifted 2010 Q7 in action.

Refresher: U.S. market will get a choice of a 3.6L FSI V6 and a 4.2L FSI V8. The V6 TDI clean-diesel will also join the lineup. The 2010 Audi Q7 TDI gets 25 mpg on the highway and over a 600 mile range. Sales will start later this month.

Click through for the video.

2010 Audi Q7:

2010 Audi Q7 in Action:

2010 Audi Q7:

- By: The Daily Auto Editor

The slightly facelifted 2010 Audi Q7 has made its world premiere at the 2009 Shanghai Motor Show today. Look closely and you’ll see a slightly redesigned front end with new LED headlamps, chrome trims, new wheel designs and an updated front and rear bumper.

The U.S. will get a 3.6L FSI V6 and the 4.2L FSI V8 along with a V6 TDI clean-diesel which gets 25 mpg on the highway and over a 600 mile range. Sales will start later this month.

Click through for the high-res image gallery.

2009 Shanghai: 2010 Audi Q7:

2010 Audi Q7:

- By: Omar Rana

Look closely and you’ll see the new 2010 Audi Q7 (just a little closer). Audi has just unveiled the 2010 Audi Q7 which receives minor exterior updates including a new front lighting design and LED daytime running lamps, LED taillamps, chrome trim, two-tone exterior mirrors, new wheel designs and an updated front and rear bumper.

Along with the 3.6L FSI V6 and the 4.2L FSI V8, the V6 TDI clean-diesel will also join the Q7 family lineup when it goes on sale later this month. The Q7 TDI gets 25 mpg on the highway and over 600 highway miles of range.

Audi said it will announced pricing details closer to launch.

Follow the jump for the high-res photo gallery and the press release.

2010 Audi Q7:

Press Release:

2010 Audi Q7 Product Improvement Quick Reference: USA Data

Product Improvement Summary

• Exterior updates:
o New front lighting design and LED daytime running lights
o New full LED rear lights (LED running lights, brake lights, and turn signals)
o Added chrome finishes on bumpers, door panels, and door handles
o Two-tone exterior mirrors
o New wheel designs
o Updated front/rear bumpers
o New paint colors (Teak Brown, Graphite Gray)
o Rear tailgate has new shape for worldwide license plate acceptance
• Interior updates:
o Ventilated Premium Cricket leather front seats
o Ambient interior door lighting and additional chrome enhancements on switchgear
o Additional wood decorative inlay on passenger side dash
• Infotainment:
o New MMI navigation system – third generation MMI shows latest evolution of 3D navigation, joystick control for navigation map destination finding, updated graphical clarity, SIRIUS artist/title preview, SIRIUS traffic-based navigation, voice-based destination input control, and voice inputs such as “I’m hungry,” “I need money,” “I need gas” and “I need coffee” that will point to closest options within current vicinity.
• Launch Timing and Pricing:
o Audi Q7 with product improvement features launches in Fall 2009 as a 2010 model year vehicle. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.
FSI gasoline direct injection summary

• Audi FSI direct injection gasoline technology was born in the R8 Le Mans-winning sports car found on racetracks from 2000-2005, with its first U.S. application in the 2005 A6 3.2 FSI V6 sedan launching in late 2004 calendar year. Using many of the same principles as TDI clean diesel technology, its high compression ratios allow for more power and torque with better fuel economy, while increasing performance levels from previous engine generations. Audi Q7’s 3.6 FSI V6 engine and its 4.2 FSI V8 engines complement the TDI clean diesel engine joining the Audi Q7 family in April 2009.

TDI clean diesel Summary
• Audi TDI clean diesel is clean, quiet, efficient, and fast. Customers buy this technology because it saves them time and adds convenience because of its city/highway range, all in a very clean and high-tech manner.
• Audi TDI clean diesel engines are held to the same emissions standards as gasoline engines in the U.S., plus offer the advantages of 30% better fuel economy than V6 gasoline engines of similar displacement. Audi recommends premium gasoline fuel for FSI direct injection engines, with similar pricing for ultra low sulfur diesel fuel available in the U.S.
• With 25 mpg highway and over 600 highway miles of range, Audi has chosen the Audi Q7 to launch diesel to demonstrate the best of qualities of fuel efficiency and technology in a vehicle segment that is not known for these attributes.
• Audi has been preparing the U.S. market for TDI clean diesel by racing the R10 TDI LMP1 prototype for the past three seasons within the American Le Mans series, with proven and equally consistent victories for all three competing years at the famed 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race. The 650 hp and 800 lb-ft of torque within the R10 TDI is proof of Audi endurance, reliability, performance, and high levels of technology. It has always used the futuristic and high-potential GTL (gas-to-liquid) clean diesel fuel and has experimented with BTL (biomass-to-liquid) fuel in the 2008 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race. The new R15 TDI sports car with a V10 TDI clean engine won its maiden competition at the March 2009 12 Hours of Sebring endurance race. Preparations are well under way for its first 24 Hours of Le Mans racing debut in June 2009.
• Audi TDI clean diesel development since 1989: output up 100%, torque up 70%, cleaner by 95%, particulates reduced by 98%.

Market
• Key competitors are BMW X5 xDrive30i, xDrive35d, and xDrive48i and Mercedes GL320 BlueTEC, GL450, and GL550.

Why TDI clean diesel in the United States in 2009 with the new Audi Q7 TDI?
• Audi has achieved Bin5/ULEV (ultra low emissions vehicle) II 50-state status. Audi clean diesel is measured on the same emissions basis as gasoline-based engines, but with 30% better fuel efficiency.
• Advantages include very American driving aspects such as long range with over 600 highway miles between fueling stops for a convenient lifestyle, off-the-line power/torque, smooth and quiet ride.
• When comparing diesel fuel prices 1:1 to Audi-recommended Super unleaded gasoline, the price differential will pay for itself over a few years time, and even sooner if resale value, and the Alternative Motor Vehicle credit is taken into consideration.
• Clean diesel is progressive, in line with Audi worldwide brand values, with its advanced technology and performance without sacrificing efficiency.

Design
• Sporty coupe-like roofline and dynamic sill line divides vehicle into a sporty looking upper section and a sturdy / substantial lower section.
• One-piece wraparound tailgate made of aluminum with dynamic S-joint; unique to Audi.
• Striking single-frame grille is a symbol of power and presence.
• Typical Audi interior design is modern and sophisticated, with clear attention to detail; 14 cupholders, including 1 liter bottle holders in each door; up to 28 rear seat configurations possible.
• 5-star crash test ratings from NHTSA NCAP, “Top Safety Pick” from IIHS
• Interior design was developed with the U.S. in mind, with ample storage room, numerous cupholders, and overall spaciousness.
• 3.0 TDI V6 clean diesel advantages include superior packaging over competitors, with AdBlue filling area secured next to fuel filling area within exterior fuel door (not in the interior).

Dynamics
• S line package option provides up to 21 inch wheels with 295/35 tires
• Six-piston front and four-piston rear brakes provide ample stopping power
• Turbocharger optimized for US market, with torque peak arriving sooner than current EU model.
• Clean, fun-to-drive, responsible, with excellent range fits U.S. Audi customer profile

Powertrain
• 3.6 FSI V6 specifications:
o FSI direct injection technology
o 280 hp / 266 lb-ft
o 0-60 in 8.2 seconds
o Fuel economy: 14/20 city/highway, 16 mpg combined
• 3.0 TDI V6 clean diesel with 50-state specifications joins the U.S. Audi Q7 lineup in April 2009:
o TDI clean diesel technology and Bin 5 federal and ULEV II California emissions rating
o U.S. version: 225 hp / 406 lb-ft
o 0-60 mph in 8.5 seconds (USA estimated)
o Range: over 600 miles per tank (25mpg x 26.4 gal tank = 660 miles)
o Common rail engine design for smooth and quiet operation, injection pressure up to 2,000 BAR / 29,001 psi = the weight of an SUV within the size of a fingernail.
o Piezo injectors can be varied and optimized almost at will, reducing emissions, and acoustic benefits of the engine (especially at low engine speeds).
o Variable turbine geometry generates 23.2 lbs of boost (1.6 BAR), with its vanes powered by an electric servo motor to improve propulsive power at low speeds.
o Engine block made from a high strength vermicular graphite iron. Cylinder heads made from aluminum, which weighs 15% less than traditional cast iron.
o Quickstart heater plugs are adapted to extremely cold temperatures, heating up to 1800°F within 2 seconds of ignition.
o AdBlue tanks can be refilled under normal Audi U.S. maintenance cycles.
o AdBlue tanks do not compromise the ability to carry a collapsible spare wheel (same as Audi Q7 gasoline models).
o Fuel economy: 17/25 city/highway, 20 mpg combined
• 4.2 FSI V8 specifications
o FSI direct injection technology
o 350 hp / 325 lb-ft
o 0-60 in 7.1 seconds
o Fuel economy: 13/18 city/highway; 15 mpg combined
• quattro® AWD – latest generation with asymmetric rear-biased torque split (42% front / 58% rear under normal conditions)

Innovations and available features
• Advanced key keyless entry and starting
• Bluetooth hands-free telephone interface
• Audi music interface – iPod adapter
• Audi parking system advanced w/ rearview camera (includes front & rear acoustic sensors)
• 6,600 lbs towing capacity with available towing package
• Audi side assist blind spot detection system (activates at 19 mph)
• Bang and Olufsen 1001 watts / 14 speaker Advanced sound system
• Four zone climate control
• Heated front & rear seats, and steering wheel
• Audi adaptive air suspension (height & damping adjustment)
• Audi adaptive cruise control (0-90 mph, can bring car to a complete stop)

- By: Omar Rana

Audi’s Mileage Marathon kicked off on Monday and the group has already traveled from New York to Washington. The whole event focuses around the Audi Q7 3.0 TDI which will go on sale in the U.S. earlier next year.

Audi says that from New York to Washington, the 3.0 TDI Q7 averaged a fuel-consumption of 7.4 liters per 100 kilometers (31.79 mpg). Other teams in the marathon managed to average between 28 mpg and 31 mpg. The 2009 Audi Q7 3.0 TDI is powered by a 225-hp diesel engine with a maximum torque of 405 lb-ft.

The 3.0 TDI Q7 is also joined by an Audi A3 2.0 TDI which averaged 47 mpg, an A4 3.0 TDI which averaged 39 mpg and a Q5 3.0 RDI which averaged 38 mpg. Audi has not said when or if the other three TDI models will come to the U.S. All four cars left Cleveland yesterday and will arrive in Chicago later today.

Audi Q7 3.0 TDI at Audi’s Mileage Marathon:

Press Release:

The cleanest diesel is also ultra-efficient

   – First leg of Audi Mileage Marathon started in New York
   – Audi Q7 with ultra low emission system taking part in major real-life test
   - Best actual fuel efficiency from 7.4 liters per 100 kilometers (31.79 US mpg)
The new Audi Q7 3.0 TDI with ultra low emission system is the cleanest diesel in the world, and an extremely economical form of propulsion into the bargain. This was demonstrated on the very first leg of the Audi Mileage Marathon on Monday, from New York to Washington. The best participants in this major real-life test criss-crossing the American continent achieved an average fuel consumption of an impressive 7.4 liters per 100 kilometers (31.79 US mpg).

The starting flag went up on the Audi Mileage Marathon at nine o’clock on Monday morning, in New York’s Central Park. The endurance test for this fleet of 23 vehicles from the Audi Q7, Audi Q5, Audi A4 and Audi A3 car lines started with a battle through the heavy traffic of Manhattan. Between now and October 20, the fleet will be covering almost 8,000 kilometers (around 5,000 miles) on its way to Los Angeles, passing through major US cities and the natural wonders of the West. 184 drivers from all over the world will be testing both the supreme sportiness and the extraordinary efficiency of the TDI models on this tour.

The Audi Q7 3.0 TDI with ultra low emission system is putting in its first public appearance here. Its exhaust emission control system reduces nitrogen oxides by as much as 90 percent, and thus complies with the world’s toughest emission standard, California’s ULEV II BIN 5. And it already undercuts the limit values of the Euro 6 standard that will not come into force until 2014.

The very first leg of the tour, which was a particularly challenging combination of urban traffic and stop-and-go conditions on the highway, showed that fuel efficiency has not been sacrificed in the process. The most successful representatives of this model achieved fuel consumption of 7.4 liters per 100 kilometers (31.79 US mpg), while other teams managed figures ranging between 7.6 and 7.9 liters (29.77 to 30.95 US mpg) – an outstanding achievement for an SUV with up to seven seats, quattro drive and excellent road performance thanks to an engine output of 165 kW (225 hp) plus peak torque of 550 Nm (405 lb-ft). Volume production of the Audi Q7 3.0 TDI with ultra low emission system will start later on this year, and its market launch in both the US and Europe is scheduled for 2009.

The other Audi models likewise made a very impressive showing, first and foremost the Audi A3 2.0 TDI developing 103 kW (140 hp), with S tronic transmission. Its best fuel consumption figure was less than five liters per 100 kilometers (in excess of 47.04 US mpg). The best team in an Audi A4 3.0 TDI quattro achieved just under six liters per 100 kilometers (in excess of 39.2 US mpg), while the new performance SUV Audi Q5 3.0 TDI quattro delivered sensational proof of its efficiency, at 6.2 liters per 100 km (37.94 US mpg).

The next leg of the Audi Mileage Marathon continues to Cleveland on Tuesday, then on to Chicago on Wednesday. The fuel consumption of the participating vehicles is being monitored by the US-based motor sports association IMSA.

We first saw the production version of the Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show earlier this year. At Paris next month, Audi will show the model once again in its final series phase with sales kicking off later in Oct. Prices will start at 130,600 Euros ($184,120 USD)

Known as the “world’s most powerful diesel-engine SUV” the Audi Q7 V12 TDI 6-cylinder engine producing 500-hp with a maximum torque of a whopping 758 lb-ft. That gives it the ability to go form rest to 62 mph in 5.5 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. Even with that impressive performance the Q7 V12 TDI returns a fuel-economy of 21 mpg. Inside Audi offers a DVD navigation system, Bose Surround Sound system with CD changer, Bluetooth, a tire pressure monitoring system and a tailgate that opens and closes electrically.

Audi, so far, has no plans to sell the Q7 V12 TDI on the stateside but we will be getting the 233-hp Q7 3.0 TDI later this year.

Click through for more pictures.

2009 Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro: