What's happening here?
We've got two special editions of the big, seven-seat Audi Q7 SUV to report on. One is called the Black Edition, which we've seen on Q7s before, and which is available exclusively with the 272hp 3.0 TDI model, while the other is the Vorsprung - available on both said TDI and also the stonking 435hp SQ7 flagship.
Shall we start with the Black Edition, then?
Yes indeed. It sits above the previous highest specification available, S line, and somewhat obviously (given the car's name) it majors on the dark hue on the outside. The radiator grille frame, profile trim strip, front bumper styling accents and door mirrors are all coated in the finish. There are also larger 21-inch alloys stuffed into the arches. Inside, black inlays continue the theme, while the leather seats are upgraded to the softer Valcona hide. A full panoramic sunroof, customisable LED ambient lighting, the Audi Virtual Cockpit 12.3-inch TFT instrument display, a rear-view camera and a flat-bottomed, multifunction steering wheel complete the equipment upgrades. Oh, and Adaptive Air Suspension Sport, appearing for the first time in the UK Q7 range; this lowers the Audi by 15mm and constantly monitors the ride quality to ensure occupants' comfort.
And how much is all of this?
The Q7 3.0 TDI 272hp Black Edition starts from £64,405 on the road.
OK, so what's the Vorsprung all about?
Said to bring the 'highest level of standard equipment ever for a Q7', the Vorsprung models start at £77,905 OTR for the TDI and the £88,295 for the SQ7. The TDI builds on the Black Edition kit and adds 22-inch Audi Sport alloys, running boards, Super Sport seats with memory function and diamond contrast-stitching, an extended leather pack for fascias in the cabin, heated seats on row two and a soft-touch Alcantara headlining. But wait, there's more - Audi's Advanced Key makes for the easiest of access and the Audi Phone Box means Qi wireless charging for supported smartphones. There's a head-up display for the driver, a full 3D Bose surround sound system, Matrix LED headlights, the Driving Assistance Tour Pack (equipping the Vorsprung Q7s with level two partial autonomy, thanks to adaptive cruise control, active lane assist and traffic jam assist, meaning the SUV can practically drive itself at speeds of up to 37mph) and the Parking Assistance Pack, including Park Assist automated parking, a 360-degree camera and Side Assist, for blind-spot monitoring. Comprehensive stuff.
And what does the SQ7 Vorsprung get? Extra power? More toys?
Er... no. It simply has the kit of the 3.0 TDI Vorsprung, only without the running boards outside. Still, at least you still get that almighty 4.0-litre biturbo V8 diesel to keep you happy.
Matt Robinson - 30 Oct 2017
