Audi Q7 vs BMW X5

Audi Q7 vs BMW X5

The #Audi #Q7 is getting an all-round update - both visually and technically. The large SUV features the new design of the Q family and offers superb dynamics and excellent comfort, in addition to its superior spaciousness. Mild hybrid technology, the digital operating concept, and the optional HD matrix #LED headlights including laser light are just some of its highlights. The new Audi Q7 and the SQ7 are equipped with a powerful V8 diesel engine and will be introduced to the European market in mid-September. The base price for the Audi Q7 in Germany will be EUR 66,900.

All of the engines in the Audi Q7 are coupled to an eight-speed tiptronic and the quattro permanent all-wheel drive. A choice of two diesel engines and one gasoline engine will be available at first. A plug-in hybrid model combined with a V6 TFSI will follow later. In the Q7 45 TDI quattro tiptronic, the diesel unit produces 170 kW (231 metric hp) of power and 500 Nm (368.8 lb-ft) of torque. It accelerates the large SUV from a standstill to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 7.1 seconds and on to a top speed of 229 km/h (142.3 mph). The more powerful version in the Q7 50 TDI quattro tiptronic delivers 210 kW (286 metric hp) and 600 Nm (442.5 lb-ft). It sprints from zero to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 6.3 seconds; top speed is 241 km/h (149.8 mph).The new three-liter gasoline engine in the Audi Q7 55 TFSI quattro tiptronic is the most powerful engine. Just like the two diesel engines, the V6 gasoline engine is charged by a monoturbo. The key data: 250 kW (340 metric hp), 500 Nm (368.8 lb-ft) of torque, from zero to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 5.9 seconds, 250 km/h (155.3 mph) top speed (regulated).

Whether with five or seven seats - the Audi Q7 combines immense prestige with practical everyday qualities. Through its new design, the large SUV has now grown eleven millimeters (0.4 in) to 5,063 millimeters (16.6 ft) long. It measures 1,970 millimeters (6.5 ft) wide and 1,741 millimeters (5.7 ft) (including roof antenna) high. The Audi Q7 outdoes its direct competitors with interior length as well as headroom and elbow room in the front and rear.

A wheelbase 42 mm longer than its predecessor's (now 2,975 millimetres), a 36 mm increase in vehicle length (to 4,922 millimetres), an extra 66 mm of width (now 2,004 millimetres) and a 19 mm increase in height (to 1,745 millimetres) give the new BMW X5 both an imposing appearance and generous levels of space for passengers and their luggage. The latest X5 retains the hallmark proportions of an SAV, but the pared-back design language - clean surfacing and precise lines accentuating the car's robustness, elegant poise and muscular authority - is new. A powerfully sculpted bonnet, a short front overhang, lightly hexagonal wheel arches and the dynamic sweep of the roofline provide further references to the sporty yet rugged character of the new X5.

The new #BMW #X5 is being launched with a choice of two petrol and two diesel representatives from the latest generation of engines. Heading the range is the BMW X5 #xDrive50i (not available in Europe), whose extensively developed V8 unit is making its debut, while a BMW M Performance model also forms part of the launch line-up. The BMW X5 #M50d is powered by a six-cylinder in-line diesel engine with a quartet of turbochargers. A six-cylinder in-line unit can also be found under the bonnet of the BMW X5 xDrive40i and BMW X5 #xDrive30d. All the engines channel their power through an eight-speed Steptronic transmission, while BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive is on hand to ensure that power is translated into secure progress - on or off road.

The power unit fitted in the new BMW X5 xDrive40i boasts the free-revving ability inherent in all six-cylinder in-line engines from BMW, plus wonderfully eager response. The 3.0-litre unit employs a twin-scroll turbocharger and direct petrol injection technology whose maximum pressure of 350 bar ensures the fuel is delivered in extremely precise doses. The straight-six generates its maximum output of 250 kW/340 hp between 5,500 and 6,500 rpm, while the peak torque of 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) is waiting to be unleashed from 1,500 - 5,200 rpm.

The new BMW X5 xDrive40i completes the 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint in just 5.5 seconds. Fuel consumption averages 8.8 - 8.5 litres per 100 kilometres (32.1 - 33.2 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions are 200 - 193 grams per kilometre.