Currently reading: Next-gen Audi Q7 to shed 350kg
Audi is to expand its SUV line-up, which will include a lighter Q7

A number of new SUVs could be added to Audi’s already-extensive range. 

These include a new-generation Audi Q7 SUV, 350kg lighter than the current car and at least one more coupé-like SUV that will slot between the Audi Q3 and Audi Q5. A sub-Q3 baby SUV is also planned, possibly inspired by the Crosslane Coupé, which was unveiled at September's Paris motor show.

Audi’s head of technical development, Wolfgang Durheimer, told Autocar the next-generation Q7 will benefit from a new ‘multi-materials’ version of Audi’s next-generation MLB platform. 

An updated version of the architecture that underpins today’s Audi A4 to Audi A7 models, the super-light version of the new MLB architecture used by the 2014 Q7 will mix steel, aluminium and carbonfibre structural parts. New riveting and bonding techniques are used in the construction and the bare body shell will be 200kg lighter than today’s Q7. 

The new Q7 structure is also likely to be used by the next Porsche Cayenne, Bentley Continental and forthcoming SUV.

The Audi management team will meet within the next week or so to prioritise these future projects, with the most important to get the green light immediately.

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The Q7 is accomplished, but doesn’t feel as at home on UK roads as more refined rivals like the Range Rover Sport and BMW X5

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The Apprentice 24 November 2012

Perhaps Audi's purported

Perhaps Audi's purported world leading material technology that other posters have raved about in great length will mean the new one will acheive better than a 4 Star NCAP rating!

Rather dissapointing for such a premium, hefty and costly vehicle considering in the same class even Hyundai could acheive that and other vehicles in class launched years before it reached 5 stars.

 

BriMarsh 23 November 2012

If it lost another 2000kg...

...and disappeared completely that would be a real result....

Old Toad 23 November 2012

Getting lighter is good for all

I would say an aluminium floor pan is not more or less advanced than a mix of steel aluminium and carbon fibre . Just a different way of achieving weight loss .

What I would like to point out is the aluminuim would be much cheaper to repair than a mix of materials . When carbon fibre fails it is catastrophic and will need more than a panel beater to repair it .