Here’s Audi’s next Q7 SUV and US-only SQ7, now with an RS V8

MUNICH, GERMANY—Audi is experiencing a significant resurgence in the SUV segment. In just the past 18 months, the automaker has introduced the new electric Q6 and revamped the midsize Q5, with the highly anticipated Q9 set to debut later this summer, targeting the full-size market alongside competitors like the Escalade. Today, Audi has revealed an entirely new version of the Q7, along with the SQ7, which will be available exclusively in North America. Both models are slated to go on sale later this year as part of the 2027 lineup. The standard Q7 will be equipped with a twin-turbo 2.9-liter V6 engine, producing an impressive 429 horsepower (320 kW) and 442 lb-ft (600 Nm) of torque. On the other hand, the SQ7 boasts a powerful 591 horsepower (441 kW) V8 engine, delivering 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque, similar to what is found in the RS7. Notably, there is no indication of a plug-in hybrid variant being offered at this time. Both models feature an eight-speed automatic transmission (the highly regarded ZF 8HP) and all-wheel drive, with Audi claiming these are the fastest-accelerating Q7 and SQ7 versions to date. Additionally, improvements have been made to enhance the overall driving experience. For suspension options, the standard Q7 will come with steel springs, while buyers can upgrade to the adaptive air suspension, which is standard on the SQ7. This air suspension system includes an optional third mode that lowers the vehicle by over an inch (30 mm). Last month, it was reported that Audi received approval to utilize digital matrix LED headlights on U.S. roads, starting with the Q9. Given the shared components between the Q9 and Q7, the latter will also feature these cutting-edge 25,600-pixel headlights, along with OLED rear lights capable of displaying hazard icons. However, U.S. versions of the Q7 will limit this hazard communication to stationary scenarios, unlike their European counterparts that can signal warnings while driving. In a further advancement, U.S. models equipped with dynamic turn signals will also have the capability to project turn signals onto the road surface at night, enhancing visibility for pedestrians and cyclists, as depicted in the accompanying images.