Space ships

They are a perfect illustration of when size does matter. In the rarified atmosphere of large, luxury SUVs, size, or more accurately space is what it’s all about. And both the Audi Q7 and Q8 models are big on space, but they are also big on luxury, technology, safety and of course performance. These are the ultimate lifestyle vehicles – in many ways a modern interpretation of a grand tourer, with their ability to handle all manner of daily duties with aplomb, but also perfect for long, comfortable trips.

The recent arrival of the new Q7 and Q8 models gives customers a completely refreshed line-up of these tremendously popular vehicles, with a selection of both TDI and TFSI powerplants, as well as the new iteration of the Q8 Plug-in Hybrid. With the choice of five-seats in the Q8 or seven seats in the Q7 models, customers are able to select a model to perfectly suit their needs without compromising on quality, luxury or performance.

Both the Q7 and Q8 ranges are familiar to Australian customers and have enjoyed considerable popularity since arriving Down Under – 19 years ago in the case of the Q7 and nearly seven for the Q8.

These new models represent further refinement of the proven formula for both, with design changes primarily to the headlights, single frame, front bumper and rear bumpers with integrated diffuser, for a sharper overall look. The internal space concept of course dictates the exterior design, with the more SUV wagon look of the Q7 allowing it to offer the third row of seats, while the Q8 has always been the more design-driven of the two, with a more coupe-like aesthetic, despite its generous dimensions.

And the dimensions of both are extremely generous, the Q7 coming in at just over five metres (5072mm), nearly two metres wide (1970mm) and standing 1730mm high. This allows of the superb interior accommodation for up to seven occupants and with five top tether seat anchor points, allows for tremendous versatility for those with young families. Luggage capacity is right up there as well, with 780 litres of space or a massive 1908 litres with the rear seats folded forward. In addition, the vehicle’s height can be lowered by as much as 55mm with the touch of a button in the cargo bay for greater ease of loading and unloading.

By comparison, the Q8 is slightly shorter at 5004mm long, yet wider at 1996mm and lower through the roofline at 1717mm. Yet despite these differences, the two models are almost identical in wheelbase – 3005/3004mm respectively – which accounts for the Q8’s cavernous interior, geared as it is toward accommodating just five adults.

It nevertheless offers up 606 litres of cargo space or 1755 litres with the rear seats folded flat, providing plenty of space for the equipment of a busy and active lifestyle.

The choice is very much a matter of personal taste and lifestyle requirements, as both models deliver big time on the luxury promise, as well as the latest tech and limousine-like ride. There is no shortage of urge either, regardless of which model takes your fancy, with 3.0-litre V6 powerplants in both TDI and TFSI form across the range – the four-cylinder 45 TFSI with its 2.0-litre engine being the exception. There is also the up to 3500kg towing capacity which brings these models very much into the focus of those with boats or horse floats to consider.

The Q7 range starts with the Q7 45 TFSI from $108,815* and the Q7 45 TDI from $117,284*. With 185kW and 370Nm on tap in the former and 170kW and 500Nm from the latter, this race from a standstill to 100km/h in a fraction over seven seconds (7.1 seconds for the TDI and 7.3 for the four-cylinder TFSI), which is extraordinary for large, luxury vehicles with their level of equipment. These are followed by the 50 TDI and the Q7 55 TFSI, both from $136,815* with 3.0-litre V6 TDI power delivering 210kW and 600Nm of torque for a 6.5 second sprint to 100km/h in 50 TDI and 250kW with 500Nm from the 55 TFSI for a 5.9 second 0 to 100km/h figure.

Standard equipment is impressive, with the 45 TFSI and 45 TDI riding on 20-inch alloy wheels, with adaptive air suspension, Matrix LED headlights and a full suite of driver assistance and safety systems (over 30 in fact). In addition to the ability to lower the vehicle for loading and unloading, the tailgate can be opened with a foot gesture, which frees up arms to carry luggage, shopping and various equipment. The additional two seats in the third row lie completely flat when not in use and upholstery throughout is fine leather.

The likes of ambient colour lighting and three-zone climate control make for a perfectly controlled interior, while heated front seats, Audi connect plus, MMI navigation plus and the Audi virtual cockpit add additional and functionality to the ‘business end’ of the vehicle. Audi phone box light, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android auto are likewise standard inclusions.

Move on to the Q7 50 TDI and the 55 TFSI and the aforementioned is built on with the likes of larger 21-inch wheels, an S line exterior package and privacy glass as well as a panoramic sunroof.

These models also include an S line interior package that see upholstery sports seats upholstered in Valcona leather with the S embossing, three-spoke multi-function wheel covered in perforated leather with matching treatment on the gear selector. A head-up display is a personal favourite, while inlays here are in brushed aluminium, with a Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system and four-zone climate control completing what are beautifully appointed and executed interiors.

Customers are able to add to the already impressive levels of standard equipment with a number of additional packages, specially tailored to specific models. The Premium Package for the Q7 45 TFSI and TDI models adds 21-inch alloy wheels, four-zone climate control and a black interior styling package and colour ambient interior lighting for $3,900, while those opting for either the 50 TDI or 55 TFSI models can choose from a Luxury seat package at $4200 or a Premium Plus package for $5,500. The former adds S sport seats with integrated headrests, upholstered in Valcona leather with distinctive diamond stitching. Front seats are also ventilated while the outer rear seats feature heating. The Premium Plus package adds 22-inch alloy wheels and adaptive air suspension sport , as well as dynamic all wheel steering, black exterior package and power assisted door closing.

The Q8 range kicks off with the 50 TDI and 55 TFSI both from $143,415 and boast 21-inch alloys, S line exteriors, Matrix LED lights and adaptive air suspension as standard equipment. The tailgate gesture opening is likewise included  and the full complement of safety and assistance systems go without saying.

As the flagship of Audi’s large SUV range, the Q8 is beautifully appointed inside, with everything from Valcona leather with the S embossing, heated front seats. An S line interior packaged of course the coloured ambient lighting package to change the mood as it suits you. The rear bench seat plus can be moved forward and aft for even greater comfort for rear seat passengers and three-zone climate control is also standard.

There is also MMI navigation plus and Audi connect plus which hooks occupants up to the outside world while on the move, and the likes of Apple Carplay and Android auto, Audi phone box light are of course standard inclusions.

Slip into the hybrid Q8 60 TFSI e quattro S line from $154,284* and you get the already mentioned inclusions as well as 21-inch alloy wheels and red brake calipers, Audi adaptive air suspension Sport and a black exterior styling package. Obviously given its unique position as the plug-in hybrid offering, customers get a vehicle that is more powerful than its predecessor and has greater all-electric range as well – up 20 kW to 360kW and 700Nm. Range on battery alone is now up to 74 kilometres – an increase of 15km – and the Q8 60 TFSI e is also quicker by nearly half a second to 100km/h, hitting the mark in five seconds from standstill.

Q8 customers are also able to add features to their vehicles via two packages. The Luxury seat package adds S sports seats with integrated headrests, Valcona leather and front seat ventilation as well as heated outside rear seating for $3,900. While the Premium Plus package means larger 22-inch wheels, adaptive suspension sport as well as dynamic all-wheel steering on the practical side. The package also includes a black exterior package and the power assisted door closure for an MLP of $6,900.

One thing you are certainly not short of in the large luxury stakes is choice. With this extensive model upgrade, the Q7 and Q8 ranks offer a wealth of choice, catering to different lifestyles, family size and personal taste, but all with the focus very much on luxury.

The option of a four-cylinder, petrol power plant in the Q7 ranks for the first time will appeal greatly to many, while the new Q8 plug-in hybrid builds on the attributes of its superb predecessor with extraordinary acceleration off the line ( five seconds to 100km/h) and yet the ability to travel up to 74 kilometres on pure electric. This, coupled with the long range support of its petrol engine make it the perfect choice for those wanting the attributes of all-electric motoring but where a full EV model doesn’t suit their lifestyle.

In addition, the S models are already available in Australia for those looking for even greater performance on top of the other qualities in the Q7/Q8 range and the new RS Q8 will also make its way to Australia in the first half of the year, catering to those who like to take their performance to extremes. 

It’s no surprise that demand for these proven luxury models continues unabated, with their blend of practicality, luxurious appointment and performance. As comfortable heading to a business meeting as they are on a trip to the coast or country, the new Q7 and Q8 take it all in stride as well as ensuring that the art of the great Australian road trip is in very safe hands.

(*Manufacturer List Pricing [MLP] – excludes dealer delivery and government statutory charges)