Audi unveiled the refreshed 2024 Q8 for our market in late October, followed by the refreshed 2025 Audi Q7 for U.S. consumers at the end of last month. Both models retained their existing powertrains. However, Audi has just introduced two new plug-in hybrid powertrains for the Q7 and Q8 in Europe, marking the return of PHEV technology to these models. In 2019, Audi announced the 2020 Q7 PHEV, but production issues led to its withdrawal from the market as Audi prioritized components. The latest PHEV offerings build upon this legacy, showcasing significant improvements.
Each SUV is available in two trims: the 55 TFSI E Quattro and the 60 TFSI E Quattro. Both trims feature Audi's renowned twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 335 horsepower and 379 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, they are equipped with a 25.9-kilowatt-hour battery located beneath the cargo floor (22 kWh usable). This battery, larger than its predecessor at 17.3 kWh, maintains cargo space due to a more energy-dense chemistry and module configuration. The electric driving range has substantially increased, reaching up to 53 miles in combined driving on the WLTP cycle or as much as 56 miles using the WLTP's new City standard. Audi states that it takes approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes to fully recharge the battery from empty to 100% with a 7.4-kW charge rate.
In the 55 trim, a new electric motor generates 174 hp and 339 lb-ft, contributing to a total combined output of 389 hp and 443 lb-ft. This motor is tailored for driving dynamics, aiding in smooth shifting and turbo delivery. The 55 trim achieves a zero to 62 miles per hour time slightly behind the gas-only versions. On the other hand, the 60 trim boasts a more powerful electric motor, increasing combined output to 483 hp and 516 lb-ft, resulting in a zero to 62-mph acceleration time of five seconds flat. Both trims are limited to a top speed of 150 mph in Hybrid mode or 84 mph in EV mode.
Audi has designed the powertrain to allow owners to choose the vehicle's starting mode—EV or Hybrid—maintaining that setting until changed by the owner. In Hybrid mode, an auto setting enables the powertrain to decide how to utilize battery power and electric motor assistance, while a hold setting maintains the battery pack's current level using a combination of engine power and regenerative braking. Additionally, a charge mode replenishes the battery to 75% capacity to conserve energy and enhance efficiency.
The 55 and 60 variants come generously equipped, featuring standard amenities such as the S line exterior package, LED headlights with high beam assist, wheel options ranging from 19 to 21 inches (with optional wheels up to 23 inches), nine decorative cabin inlays, contrasting seat stitching, and a charging cable. The 60 variant also includes standard air suspension, an upgrade from the 55's steel springs
