Press Release
Transmission and Chassis
The mighty engine power of the V12 TDI flows through a fast and extremely smooth-shifting six-speed tiptronic, which was specially designed for the immense torque of the six-liter diesel. The driver can shift the gears of the automatic transmission either manually with the selector lever or with the standard chromed shift paddles on the three-spoke leather-covered steering wheel.
The quattro drive distributes the power to the front and back wheels in a 40:60 ratio – giving the vehicle a sporty, rear-focused driving style that guarantees maximum agility and driving enjoyment. When needed, the inter-axle differential transfers most of the power to the axle with better traction. Great care has also been devoted to reinforcing all key components in the quattro driveline.
The chassis of the Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro is a marvel of high-tech construction. Double wishbones guide the front and rear wheels; the axle components are made primarily of aluminum. Thanks to the extreme precision and directness of the servotronic steering, the driver remains in close contact with the road. This is where the handling characteristics, driving safety and comfort of the performance SUV set the benchmark.
Even in rough terrain the Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro can easily cope with the challenges – with a maximum ground clearance of 240 millimeters (9.45 inches). The ESP stabilization system features hill descent assist and a special off-road mode which optimizes traction.
The standard adaptive air suspension works with sporty new tuning. In combination with electronically controlled shock absorbers incorporating dynamic roll stabilization, the air suspension can be adjusted in three zones ranging from extremely comfortable to highly dynamic. The driver can also adjust ground clearance in five stages via this system and lower the tail end by 71 millimeters (2.80 inches) for comfortable loading.
The ultimate performance SUV from Audi is fitted with sporty 20-inch cast aluminum wheels with a ten-spoke design. Alternatively, wheels with a 20-spoke design are available, as are impressive 21-inch wheels in a choice of three different designs.
Behind the large wheels is a powerful 20-inch brake system. Made of ceramic reinforced with carbon fiber, the internally ventilated disks are notable for their low weight, robust performance and minimum wear. As on a high-performance sports car, eight-piston calipers grip the disks at the front axle, while the rear brakes each have four pistons. The calipers are painted in Titanium Gray – the front ones bear the lettering “Audi ceramic”.
