Audi SQ7 and Q7 Revealed for US

Audi's Q7 and SQ7 are coming to North America. This release marks a major shift in the brand's premium utility vehicle lineup, arriving during a broader product renewal phase that recently introduced a new electric Q6 and replaced the midsize Q5, with a larger Q9 due later this summer. But the clock is ticking. The newly revealed Q7 and the North America-exclusive SQ7 are scheduled to go on sale later this year for the 2027 model year.

The updated models stand more upright. But it's a structural evolution that moves away from the outgoing generation's stance, featuring a taller D-pillar and a profile that's reminiscent of a station wagon. This design uses clean curves with subtle creases. Large wheels emphasize it. The standard Q7 rides on 20-inch wheels, and the high-performance SQ7 moves up to 23-inch wheels, so they've departed from more aggressive styling cues.

Powertrains deliver significant performance upgrades

Engine choices for the new lineup highlight a clear distinction between the two models. The standard Q7 arrives in the United States equipped with a twin-turbo 2.9-liter V6 engine. This powerplant generates 429 horsepower (320 kW) and 442 lb-ft (600 Nm) of torque. Both vehicles route power through a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, known as the 8HP, and distribute it to all four wheels via an all-wheel-drive system.

The SQ7 takes a more aggressive approach to performance. It's borrowing the V8 engine typically found in the RS7, which produces 591 horsepower (441 kW) and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque. But the availability of this powerful engine option in North America is likely linked to regional emission regulations, and there's no plug-in hybrid version slated for either vehicle in this market. These are the quickest-accelerating Q7 and SQ7 models ever produced. Audi says so.

Chassis tech and suspension options

The standard Q7 uses steel springs for its base suspension. But to manage the power of these large utility vehicles, the manufacturer has updated the chassis options and even allows buyers to upgrade to an adaptive air suspension system that comes as standard equipment on the SQ7. That SQ7 variant adds an optional third suspension mode. It lowers the ride height by more than an inch, or exactly 30 millimeters, to improve handling dynamics. It's a clever design choice.

Advanced lighting systems reach North America

Progress in regulatory approvals has finally brought advanced lighting systems to United States roads.

But it's not as simple as it seems. The new Q7 and SQ7 models adopt the 25,600-pixel digital matrix LED headlights first seen on the larger Q9, while the rear can be equipped with OLED taillights capable of displaying hazard icons. There's a catch. United States models will only display these hazard warnings when parked, whereas European versions can communicate alerts while in motion.

A new safety-oriented lighting feature has been developed specifically for vehicles equipped with dynamic turn signals, and it projects those turn signals directly onto the road surface at night to warn pedestrians and cyclists of the vehicle's intended path. It's simple. But the SQ7 also features an illuminated front grille.

The vehicle projects turn signals onto the ground at night to better warn other road users.

Cabin space and digital integration

The interior architecture mirrors the design direction of the larger Q9. It’s driver-focused. Inside, the main instrument display and the infotainment screen wrap around the driver and run the brand’s latest operating system with Apple CarPlay integration, and an optional screen can also be added for the front passenger. But there’s plenty for everyone else. The cabin features two wireless charging stations and high-speed 100-watt USB-C ports, with additional USB-C ports provided for rear-seat passengers.

Material choices have expanded beyond traditional dark tones. But there's a new olive wood trim available. It offers a lighter alternative to the somber interiors of past models, and standard black and brown options remain available while the SQ7 provides sportier choices like carbon-fiber trim and blue leather seats. The second row can be configured as a three-seat bench or as a pair of captain's chairs. Drivers can lower both rear rows with a single touch, and all seats in both the second and third rows are power-adjusted.

Cargo capacity and utility metrics

• Cargo volume measures 15.1 cubic feet (428 liters) when all three rows are occupied.
• Folding the third row flat expands cargo capacity to 43.9 cubic feet (1,243 liters).
• Maximum cargo capacity reaches 78.1 cubic feet (2,212 liters) with both rear rows folded flat.
• The third row is designed for occasional use or smaller children due to space constraints.

Pricing isn't available yet. The manufacturer intends to release these specific figures closer to the official arrival of the vehicles in the United States later this year, but we've got nothing definitive right now. EPA fuel efficiency estimates also remain unknown. So we're waiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What engine does the Audi SQ7 use, and how much horsepower does it produce?

The Audi SQ7 uses a V8 engine typically found in the RS7. It produces 591 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque.

How does the suspension differ between the standard Q7 and the SQ7?

The standard Q7 uses steel springs for its base suspension, while the SQ7 comes with adaptive air suspension as standard. The SQ7 also offers an optional third suspension mode that lowers the ride height by 30 millimeters to improve handling.

What advanced lighting features are available on the new Q7 and SQ7 models?

The models feature 25,600-pixel digital matrix LED headlights and optional OLED taillights that can display hazard icons. However, in US models, hazard warnings are only displayed when parked, whereas European versions can communicate alerts while moving.

When are the 2027 Audi Q7 and SQ7 scheduled to go on sale in North America?

The updated Q7 and the North America-exclusive SQ7 are scheduled to go on sale later this year for the 2027 model year. Pricing and EPA fuel efficiency estimates are not yet available.

What is the maximum cargo capacity of the new Q7 and SQ7 with both rear rows folded?

With both rear rows folded flat, the maximum cargo capacity is 78.1 cubic feet (2,212 liters). With all three rows occupied, cargo volume is 15.1 cubic feet.