earing the designation that distinguishes the most fuel-efficient models that Audi offers, the new Audi Q7 Ultra 3.0 TDI Quattro packs a more frugal version of the 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel. In Ultra spec, it produces 218 horsepower instead of 272, and 369 pound-feet of torque instead of 443. In exchange, it returns better fuel economy – now quoted at the equivalent of 5.49 L/100km (compared to 5.69 for the more potent version).
Of course, burning less fuel comes at a bit of a performance penalty: instead of 6.3 seconds, it now takes 7.1 seconds to reach 100 km/h from a standstill. Top speed is quoted at just over 215 km/h, down from 233. Of course, the E-Tron hybrid will be the most efficient model in the Q7 range, returning the equivalent of over 2.01 L/100km while reaching 100 km/h in six seconds flat. That is, when it starts reaching dealers next spring.
The kicker here is that while the hybrid is likely to emerge as the most expensive model in the range, the Ultra is the least. Its base price in Germany comes in at 58,000 euros, compared to 61,890 for the more potent TDI. Combine that with the fuel savings, and the Q7 Ultra is looking like the frugal choice indeed.
