A glimpse into the future SUV

Update: ‘Release Date’ section updated.

Audi is currently working on a second refresh for the Q7, following a facelift in 2019, with the updated SUV expected to be released next year. Here’s what we expect from the 2024 Audi Q7 Hybrid and PHEV models. We’re expecting the restyled Q7 to be part of the MY2025 range in the United States.

Design & Interior

Spy media of the 2024 Audi Q7 PHEV indicate that the SUV will feature only minor design changes, concentrated at the front. Tweaked Matrix LED headlamps, reshaped octagonal Singleframe grille with a new honeycomb pattern, new air inlets, and a new bumper should give its face a more confident look.

The new Audi Q7 could be reminiscent of the new Audi Q8, which will debut on September 5, 2023. The new powerful face inspired by the 5-seat SUV coupe should make a world of difference in how customers perceive the character of the Q7. Audi could borrow cues for some elements, such as the grille inserts, for instance, from the pure electric Audi Q8 e-tron as well.

On the sides, expect new alloy wheels, available in 19-, 20-, and 21-inch sizes. Spy shots indicate that the rear-end would look updated, too, with new graphics in the combination lamps and a new bumper. The company continues testing the updated model on public roads. Just back in May 2023, we saw Audi engineers driving a new Q7 prototype on snowy roads in the northern part of Sweden.

Specifications

The 2024 Audi Q7 PHEV would need to deliver a significantly higher range than the current model to compete with the updated BMW X5 PHEV (BMW X5 xDrive50e) and the Mercedes GLE PHEV (Mercedes GLE 400 e 4MATIC), which are officially expected to deliver WLTP range figures of up to 110 km (68 miles) and 105 km (65 miles), respectively. To stay competitive with the upgraded rivals, the new Q7 could gain a bigger battery pack with an energy storage capacity of at least around 25 kWh (net).

The current Q7 PHEV, which has been unavailable to order in several important markets because of supply chain issues, has a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 gasoline engine paired with a permanently excited synchronous motor. The latter is integrated into the housing of an 8-speed automatic transmission. A permanent all-wheel drive system with a self-locking center differential splits the torque between the front and rear axles. Audi may revise the engine and electric motor to realize higher combined power and combined torque than the outgoing model’s 250 kW (335 hp) and 450 Nm (332 lb.-ft.).

2024 Audi Q7 mild-hybrid

With the upcoming update, Audi could start selling the Q7 widely with mild-hybrid technology as well in the U.S. The company already offers this type of semi-electrification in the Q7 in other markets since the first facelift in 2019.

Audi already uses a 48-volt mild-hybrid system in the current 55 TFSI variant in the U.S., so it won’t be a surprise if it leverages energy recuperation across the board. If anything, it may try to make the system more efficient. For reference, the current Q7 55 TFSI mild-hybrid variant has a fuel economy rating of 20 MPG (comb.)/18 MPG (city)/22 MPG (highway).

2024 Audi SQ7 mild-hybrid

The new Audi SQ7 may also feature 48-volt mild-hybrid technology in the U.S. It is expected to be differentiated from the new Q7 with a more aggressive grille and bumpers, sportier wheels, black finishing on various parts like grille, mirrors, and roof rails, quad tailpipes, and more.

Release date

The new Audi Q7 range will likely go on sale in Europe in early 2024. The rollout of the variants is expected to be staggered, with their market launch also following a phased approach. For instance, in South Africa, CAR Magazine has confirmed that the facelifted Q7 and SQ7 will be launched in their market by July 2024.

Audi doesn’t offer the Q7 PHEV in the U.S., but the incoming SUV’s significantly higher electric range could make it a compelling case for the American subsidiary to investigate.

For the U.S.

While the regional launch of the PHEV is still a matter of speculation, the U.S. market should receive the restyled Q7 series for MY2025. Audi of America has confirmed that the 2024 model year Q7 will sport minor updates, which insinuates that visual changes are planned for next year.

For the 2024 model year, the Q7 range gets updates with new standard features and package options. All Q7 models now come with adaptive cruise assist as standard, and remote start is accessible through the Audi connect app. The Executive package, reserved for the Premium Plus trims and above, includes traffic sign recognition for Q7 45 variants. Additionally, Premium Plus trims and above now get standard multi-color contour/ambient LED interior lighting package.

The Q7 55 Prestige also gains a new S line sport package, debuting the S line exterior in the U.S. Optional features for the Q7 Prestige include a Dinamica headliner and HD Matrix-design LED headlamps with Audi laser light.

Audi Q7 sales

Between January and September 2023, Audi delivered 21,448 units of the Q7 in the U.S. Compared to the same period in 2022, the Q7 recorded a 61% growth in sales (January-September 2022: 13,335 units).

TopElectricSUV says

With improved styling, new features, and a substantially higher all-electric driving range, the 2024 Q7 Plug-in Hybrid is set to be a more compelling option for consumers seeking a spacious plug-in hybrid SUV. While its arrival in the U.S. market is uncertain, we remain hopeful that it will be made available to customers stateside.

2024 Audi Q7 PHEV FAQs

Featured Image: TopElectricSUV.com’s rendering of the new Q7

I got my Master’s in Business Management & Administration and have been an International Automotive News Editor since 2014. I’ve traveled to global motor shows and automotive events, driven various types of vehicles, and focused on hybrid and electric cars in the last 4 years.