2026 Audi Q7 unveiled globally — 5, 6, or 7 seats, 630Nm diesel, digital OLED lights, and more

Audi has pulled the cover off the third generation of the Q7, and it is a significant step forward across every dimension that defines a large premium SUV. The new Q7 gets three seating configurations for the first time in the model's history, brings the brand's latest digital lighting technology, and pairs it all with a highly evolved MHEV plus diesel powertrain. German order books open immediately, with deliveries beginning in September.

2026 Audi Q7 unveiled — Bolder exterior with world-first lighting

The third-generation Q7 retains its strong SUV stance but introduces a sharper design. The four-ring logo and bonnet are positioned higher than before, giving the front end a more commanding look. A larger Singleframe grille, redesigned air intakes, pronounced quattro blisters, and a more upright D-pillar contribute to the new design. The roofline is now flatter, which also helps improve headroom across all three rows.

Lighting is a major highlight of the new Q7. Optional digital Matrix LED headlights use micro-LED technology to project high-resolution light patterns, while the rear gets third-generation digital OLED taillights connected by a full-width light bar. The OLED lights can also display warning symbols in certain emergency situations.

A notable new feature is Audi's advanced turn signal system. When the indicators or hazard lights are activated at night, a light pattern is projected onto the ground alongside the signal animations, helping alert nearby pedestrians and cyclists to an upcoming turn or lane change.

The Q7 also introduces door projection lighting. When the front doors are opened, an LED projects a white pattern onto the ground to illuminate the entry area. The system can also provide an exit warning if it detects approaching cyclists or vehicles. For the first time, the Q7 is available with automatic soft-close doors featuring obstacle detection. These can also be operated remotely through the myAudi app.

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New-gen Audi Q7 interior — Three seat layouts, switchable sunroof, & Qi2.2 wireless charging

Inside, the third-generation Q7 features a cleaner cabin layout with a redesigned centre console that includes a slim control panel, dual Qi2.2 wireless charging pads rated at 25W each, and larger cup holders. USB-C charging is available across all three rows, with up to 60W in the second row and 100W in the third row.

The Q7 is offered in multiple seating layouts. A five-seat configuration comes as standard, while buyers can choose either a six-seat layout with individual second-row captain seats or a traditional seven-seat arrangement. All seats are electrically adjustable, and the second-row comfort entry system allows access to the third row even with child seats installed.

A redesigned panoramic sunroof provides more headroom and can switch between transparent and opaque modes. It features nine individually controlled segments, integrated ambient lighting effects, and automatically turns opaque when the vehicle is parked. The optional Bang & Olufsen 4D audio system includes 22 speakers and delivers up to 1,360W of output. It also uses seat-mounted actuators in the front seats to enhance bass through vibrations, while headrest speakers can handle calls and navigation prompts separately.

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3rd-gen Audi Q7 Btechnology and driver assistance

The New Q7's dashboard is built around Audi's new MMI panoramic display, which combines the digital instrument cluster and touchscreen into a curved OLED unit. A passenger display is also standard and features a privacy mode that prevents the driver from viewing its content. The Audi Application Store provides access to music, video, gaming, navigation, and productivity apps without requiring a smartphone connection.

Voice controls are handled by the self-learning Audi assistant, which can manage vehicle functions, navigation, and general queries. More complex questions are automatically routed to ChatGPT through the same interface.

The Q7 also introduces several advanced driver assistance features. Emergency Assist can guide the vehicle to the side of the road if the driver becomes unresponsive. The trained parking function can store up to five parking manoeuvres of up to 200 metres each, while Reverse Assist can retrace a route of up to 50 metres. An exit warning system uses radar sensors to alert occupants if a cyclist or vehicle is approaching when a door is about to be opened.

2026 Audi Q7 Powertrain — MHEV plus diesel with electric boost

At launch, the Q7 will be offered with a 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine in two versions: 245 PS with 500 Nm and 299 PS with 630 Nm. Both variants feature Audi's MHEV Plus mild-hybrid system, which combines a belt starter generator, a powertrain generator, and a lithium iron phosphate battery. The system can provide an additional 24 PS and 370 Nm when needed, while also allowing short periods of electric-only driving at low speeds.

An electric compressor helps reduce turbo lag by building boost pressure in just 250 milliseconds, with the compressor wheel capable of spinning at up to 90,000 rpm. The Q7 comes standard with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system, now featuring a new limited-slip centre differential. Buyers can choose between three suspension setups: standard steel springs, adaptive air suspension, and adaptive air suspension sport, which lowers the ride height by 30 mm. Wheel sizes range from 20 inches (standard) to 21, 22, and for the first time, 23 inches from Audi Sport, all available as factory options.

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