Launched in 2015, the Audi Q7 `4M` moved to the `MLB evo` platform and made the brand's big SUV formula noticeably lighter than the old `4L`. Against the BMW X5, it still prioritises comfort, cabin space and long-distance travel, but with a far more modern presentation and a level of electronics that changes the maintenance picture completely. This is no longer a blunt heavyweight; it is a large premium SUV that depends heavily on proper follow-up.
Most of the market revolves around the `3.0 TDI V6` in `218` and `272 hp` form, with some `2.0 TFSI`, `3.0 TFSI` and `e-tron quattro` plug-in hybrids in certain years. The `8-speed tiptronic` is standard, `quattro` remains central, and depending on version the car adds `Virtual Cockpit`, more advanced driver aids, optional air suspension and rear-wheel steering. On the road the progress is obvious, but any maintenance delay becomes expensive just as quickly on something this complex.
