2020 Audi Q7 Adds Entry-Level TFSI-Equipped Variant

Audi has got a surefire winner in its hands with the 2020 Q7, and the German carmaker knows it. That’s probably why it’s offering the SUV with a turbo fuel stratified injection (TFSI)-equipped entry-level variant, and broaden the stylish new SUV’s market further.

Granted, the entry level power mill has a smaller displacement—2.0-liter to compared to the standard 3.0L V6—but TFSI is TFSI, regardless of the package it comes in.

The entry level trim, dubbed the Audi Q7 45 TFSI, generates 248 hp and 370 Nm. As expected, this is significantly lower than what the 3.0-liter variant can make: 335 hp and 440 Nm.

Fortunately, loss of power doesn’t mean a significant decline in quality, and save for a few downgrades, the more accessible Q7 remains every bit as upscale as its stable mates.

Standard on the Audi Q7 45 TFSI is the MMI touch response system with navigation, Quattro all-wheel drive, and eight-speed Tiptronic transmission. The car also has Audi’s signature suite of advanced driver assistance systems including a new top view camera and adaptive cruise assist—all offered at a similar price point to the outgoing vehicle.

Audi also offers an optional package that imbues the entry-level SUV with a 2,000-kg maximum towing capacity.

As for the design cues, there’s not much difference to be found between this entry-level unit and its more upscale siblings. The new large, octagonal Singleframe grille with six vertical slats in chrome give the SUV an imposing look. Buyers can choose between standard LED headlights with LED taillights and dynamic turn signals and the more upscale HD Matrix-design LED headlights with full LED taillights.

At the back, the busy design found in the outgoing model is replaced by a more streamlined look, accented by a chrome strip that runs the entire width of the center rear. The taillamps and rear bumper also completely new, but the faux exhausts remain, albeit more pronounced than before.

The interior of the new Q7 trim follows the design language set forth by the Audi Q8. The cockpit architecture harmonizes with the new MMI touch response dual touchscreen display. An air vent strip spans the width of the dashboard, underlined by black panel elements and nearly uninterrupted inlays. There’s also the standard three-zone automatic climate control, or available four-zone and standard panoramic sunroof with electric sunshade.

Additional feature highlights include Audi smartphone interface with Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto connectivity, the Audi virtual cockpit, and a full suite of Audi’s latest driver assistance systems.

The entry level 2020 Audi Q7 45 TFSI Quattro has an MSRP of USD 54,800 (approx. PHP 2.77 million) for the Premium trim and USD 57,200 (PHP 2.89 million) for the Premium Plus. The latter adds a host of amenities to the package, such as ambient LED interior lighting, illuminated door sill plates, a wireless smartphone charger, surround view camera system, 3D surround sound system, and additional driver assistance systems.

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