Audi Confirms First New Q7 in 11 Years, But It’s Already Been Demoted

Audi has officially confirmed the arrival of the third-generation Q7, marking the first major update to its three-row SUV in over a decade.

The new model, arriving 11 years after the second-generation Q7 debuted in 2015 (which itself received two facelifts in 2020 and 2024), is no longer Audi’s flagship three-row SUV—that title now belongs to the upcoming Q9.

The Q7’s shift to the new PPC platform, shared with the A6, signals a departure from the MLB architecture of its predecessors, promising improved ride quality and refinement.

The SUV will continue to offer a three-row seven-seater layout, aligning with its traditional positioning.

Audi teased the new Q7 with a close-up of its front doors, revealing conventional door handles, redesigned mirrors, chrome trim around the side glass, an S Line badge, and the brand’s signature straight character line. The paint color, Alopias Blue Metallic, is a new addition to the palette.

While the official teaser and leaked images provide limited details, spy shots of prototypes have already surfaced, showcasing aggressive split LED headlights, a broad honeycomb grille, sculpted rear shoulders, and an upright tail.

The hotter SQ7 variant has also been spotted, distinguished by a sportier body kit and larger wheels.

Inside, the Q7’s dashboard is expected to mirror the Q9’s layout, featuring a digital instrument cluster, a large infotainment touchscreen, and a passenger display.

However, the Q7 will likely lack some of the Q9’s luxury touches, such as soft-close doors and a dimmable panoramic roof.

The PPC platform’s compatibility with internal combustion, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains suggests Audi will offer a range of options, though specific engine details remain under wraps.

The global debut of the new Q7 is confirmed for the second half of the year, with the full reveal imminent.

For those seeking a more luxurious three-row experience, the Q9 is set to debut alongside the Q7, positioning itself as Audi’s flagship SUV to compete with the BMW X7 and Mercedes GLS.