AUDI’s Biggest SUV for China Debuts With Big Style and 590 lb-ft of Torque

Key Points

• Official photos of China-exclusive AUDI E7X released ahead of 2026 Beijing Auto Show debut.
• E7X is a full-size electric SUV, using a unique SAIC co-developed platform.
• Features distinctive design, high power variants, and “AUDI” branding replacing the Four Rings.

A New Chapter for Audi in China
Audi’s newest sub-brand in China, AUDI, has officially revealed the images of its biggest SUV yet, the AUDI E7X, ahead of its debut at the 2026 Beijing International Auto Show. It’s the second model under the China-only brand, following the wagon-style E5, and is aimed squarely at China’s expanding EV market.

A report from Autohome via China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) revealed more information about the AUDI E7X.

For quick background, AUDI is a joint venture between Audi AG and Chinese automaker SAIC. The all-caps branding is intentional, as it distinguishes this China-exclusive sub-brand from the Audi models sold globally, such as the A5, Q5, and Q7. The strategy mirrors what several foreign automakers are now doing in China, creating localized EV sub-brands to keep pace with domestic competitors.

Sizing Up the E7X
In terms of footprint, the E7X slots firmly into full-size SUV territory. It measures 198.8 inches long, 78.6 inches wide, and 67.3 inches tall, figures close to the Audi Q7. The size suggests three-row seating like the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Tesla Model X. However, the filing points to at least one four-seat configuration, presumably for premium cabin comfort.

Performance-wise, the Quattro all-wheel-drive version is expected to deliver about 590 lb-ft of torque, comparable to the dual-motor system in the Rivian R1S. The setup consists of a 268-hp front motor paired with a 402-hp rear motor. A rear-wheel-drive variant will also be available, producing around 402 hp and 368 lb-ft.

A Different Foundation for AUDI EVs
Despite carrying the Audi name, the E7X does not use the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) that underpins Audi’s U.S.-bound EVs like the Q6 e-tron. Instead, AUDI models use the Advanced Digitized Platform (ADP), co-developed with SAIC. Both PPE and ADP operate on an 800-volt EV architecture, which allows for faster charging and reduced heat buildup compared to 400-volt systems.

Visually, the E7X stands out from global Audi models. It features a rectangular rear lighting treatment reminiscent of the Kia EV6, while the front uses vertical digital matrix LED headlights. The usual Four Rings are gone and are replaced by an AUDI wordmark at the front and rear. The prototype also carries quirky-looking aerodynamic EV wheels and smoothed surfaces, though some details may still change before production.

As mentioned, the E7X is set to appear at the 2026 Beijing International Auto Show, which runs from April 24 to May 3.