Jalopnik
While we were playing with Audi's smaller V8-powered diesel Q7 (thanks to the folks at Honeywell), it looks like the multi-ringed brand was working on taking the rocket-powered powerhouse of an SUV to a whole new oil-burning level with the new Audi Q7 V12 TDI. With the new bigger, longer and more uncut diesel engine under the hood it officially makes the new Q7 the most powerful diesel-powered passenger vehicle around. That big 6.0-liter engine generates a whopping 500 HP and (wait for it) an astonishing 757.5 lb-ft of torque. That means the new Q7 has a 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) time of just 5.5 seconds. On average, it requires just 11.9 liters of fuel per 100 km — a figure translating to roughly 19.77 MPG. Do want. Oh yes, definitely do want. Presales of the Audi Q7 V12 TDI will begin in Germany during the second half of 2008 and we're of the assumption people will be calling it a 2009 model. Full details below the jump.
The New Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro: The Ultimate High-Performance SUVAudi is taking TDI technology to a whole new level with the Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro, the most powerful diesel-powered passenger vehicle in its class. The V12 engine under the hood generates 368 kW (500 hp) of power and 1,000 Nm (757.56 lb-ft) of torque from six liters of displacement, enabling the big SUV to perform like a sportscar. The new Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro represents a combination of superior power and efficient fuel consumption, an Audi hallmark. With its sporty chassis, modified body and exclusive equipment, the Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro is the consummate high-performance SUV. quattro GmbH, a wholly owned Audi subsidiary, is responsible for production and development of the vehicle. Series production of the Audi Q7 V12 TDI will begin this year.
Audi, the inventor of TDI technology, is penning a new chapter in the history of diesel engines with the Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro. The world's first V12 diesel engine in a series-production vehicle moves this big, high-performance SUV with supreme confidence and composure. On demand, the six-liter engine catapults the Audi Q7 from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.5 seconds like a top-class sportscar. Speed is electronically capped at 250 km/h (155.34 mph).
The 12-cylinder diesel engine is no less impressive when it comes to fuel consumption. On average, it requires just 11.9 liters of fuel per 100 km (19.77 mpg), a surprisingly good figure in light of the strength of the engine. The six-liter TDI uses significantly less fuel than any competing gasoline engine in the high-performance SUV sector; thanks to efficient combustion and the complex exhaust emission control system, the Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro already complies with future emissions standards.
Totally refined, high-tech engine
The V12 TDI captivates its drivers with sheer inexhaustible power and highly cultivated operation - the subtle engine sound takes on a voluminous, strong note when the throttle is open. The six-liter unit is a member of the modern family of Audi V engines, all of which have center-to-center spacing of 90 millimeters (3.54 inches) between cylinders. Instead of the usual 90 degrees, however, its cylinder angle measures 60 degrees. This method of construction is ideal for the V12 as it prohibits any undesirable free inertial forces and moments of inertia.
Another factor contributing to the vehicle's smooth running characteristics is the high rigidity of the crankcase. Made of cast vermicular graphite, it is approximately 15 percent lighter than conventional gray iron. The six-liter unit is extremely compact at just 684 millimeters (26.93 inches) in length. The crankshaft is held in place by a rigid main bearing bracket. The V12 TDI's engine capacity of 5,934 cc is derived from a bore measurement of 83.0 millimeters (3.27 inches) and a stroke of 91.4 millimeters (3.60 inches), just as in the 3.0 TDI.
The aluminum cylinder heads consist of three elements: the lower section where the intake and escape channels are integrated, the upper section which guides the flow of oil and a reinforced ladder frame containing the two camshafts driven by two simplex chains on the back of the engine. The valves are actuated by low-friction roller cam followers. Map-controlled flaps in the intake channels cause the induced air to swirl. This improves combustion, thus reducing emissions and enhancing performance.
High pressure: 2,000 bar in the common rail system
The common rail injection system, with high-pressure pumps driven by chains, can create pressure of up to 2,000 bar. The high pressure level permits intensive mixture formation of the fuel in the combustion chamber, thereby facilitating especially smooth, acoustically satisfying combustion. Shifting very rapidly and precisely, the eight-hole injectors working on the piezo principle can deliver up to five injections per combustion cycle.
Two turbochargers are positioned on the exterior of the V engine, each supplied with a cylinder bank. Thanks to their adjustable guide vane geometry, they respond quickly even at low engine speeds and reach high levels of efficiency, applying a relative maximum boost pressure of 1.6 bar. Two large charged air coolers reduce the temperature of the compressed air, paving the way for the high output of 500 hp.
Outstanding performance paired with exceptional efficiency
The six-liter TDI unit is further impressive proof of the technological leadership embodied in Audi's "Vorsprung durch Technik" slogan. Back in 1989, the brand with the four rings put the TDI principle into series production and has been continually advancing it ever since at the forefront of the field. The most powerful diesel in its class generates an extremely high specific torque of 169 Nm (124.64 lb-ft) per liter of capacity; 1,000 Nm (757.56 lb-ft) is available at a range of 1,750 to 3,250 rpm. Specific power output is 62.0 kW (84.3 hp) - equivalent to that of a sportscar.
The new V12 TDI in the Audi Q7 is closely related to the engine that twice powered the Audi R10 TDI racing car to overall victory in the Le Mans 24 Hours - a 5.5-liter V12 that delivers approximately 480 kW (over 650 hp).
The Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro's powerful engine torque flows through a rapidly and gently shifting six-speed tiptronic that was specially designed for the six-liter diesel engine's immense torque. The driver can shift the gears of the automatic transmission either with the selector lever or manually with the standard chromed shift paddles on the three-spoke steering wheel.
The quattro drive distributes the power to the front and back wheels in a 40:60 ratio - giving the vehicle a sporty, rear-focused driving style that guarantees maximum agility and driving enjoyment. When needed, the inter-axle differential transfers most of the power to the axle with better traction. Great care has also been devoted to reinforcing all key components in the quattro driveline.
High tech from Audi: The aluminum chassis
The chassis of the Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro is a marvel of high-tech construction. Elaborate double wishbones guide the front and rear wheels; the axle components are made primarily of aluminum. Thanks to the extreme precision and directness of the servotronic steering, the driver remains in close contact with the road. This is where the handling characteristics, driving safety and comfort of the high-performance SUV set new standards. With maximum ground clearance of 205 millimeters (8.07 inches), the Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro also proves itself easily capable of handling the demands of rough terrain.
The adaptive air suspension works with sporty new tuning. In combination with electronically controlled shock absorbers incorporating dynamic roll stabilization, the air suspension can be adjusted in three zones ranging from extremely comfortable to highly dynamic. The driver can also adjust ground clearance in five stages via this system and lower the tail end by 71 millimeters (2.80 inches) for comfortable loading.
Standard carbon-fiber ceramic brakes
The ultimate high-performance SUV from Audi takes to the road on sporty 10-spoke wheels of 20 inches in diameter. Alternatively, the wheels are also available in a 20-spoke design or as 21-inch variants in three different designs. Behind the large wheels is a powerful 20-inch brake system. Made of ceramic reinforced with carbon fiber, the internally ventilated disks are notable for their low weight, robust performance and minimum wear. The front disks are gripped by eight-piston brake calipers, while the rear brakes function with four pistons each. The calipers are titanium gray and the front ones bear the "Audi ceramic" logo.
The visual styling of the Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro gives it an unmistakable look. Daytime running lights consisting of twelve white LEDs per headlight announce the vehicle's presence even at a distance. They are located on the upper edge of the air intake slots, replacing the turn signals that were moved to the bi-xenon headlights. Further honing the vehicle's profile is a chromed grid in the single-frame radiator grill and a shiny underbody protector made of stainless steel. The newly designed bumper groups the side air intake slots into large units.
When viewed from the side, both the 20-inch wheels and the matt aluminum caps on the exterior mirrors catch the eye. The wheel arches have been widened a total of 26 millimeters (1.02 inches) at the front and 30 millimeters (1.18 inches) at the rear; the lower edges of the doors flaunt striking new moldings. The windows are framed by matt aluminum cover strips, the roof rails sport the same look. The taillights are set in a dark-colored background, while the newly designed bumper incorporates two large, oval exhaust tailpipes. At the rear, the underbody protector is also made from stainless steel. A metallic or pearl effect finish comes standard.
Sophisticated: Highlights on board the Audi Q7 V12 TDI
In the interior of the most powerful Audi Q7, passengers will find shiny door sill trim with aluminum inserts and velours carpet. Carbon covers and the aluminum-look selector lever give the center tunnel a high-tech ambience, exclusive wood trim is available as an option. The buttons of the MMI operating system, which has proven a superior concept in numerous independent tests, gleam in silver, the air vents in aluminum, the pedals and footrest in stainless steel. On the speedometer, the range extends up to 310 km/h (192.63 mph).
Verano leather covers the electrically adjustable sport seats, the deluxe center armrest and the armrests in the doors are upholstered with leather as well. The front and rear seats can be heated; a special lighting package softly illuminates the interior.
Also included in the luxurious standard specification are the leather package, leather multi-function sports steering wheel, black roof lining, folding exterior mirrors, DVD navigation system, Bose Surround Sound system with CD changer, Bluetooth mobile phone preparation, alarm system and tire pressure monitoring system. The tailgate opens and closes electronically. Partially overlapping the D-pillars, it gives the vehicle a brawny rear body.
There are four optional high-tech assistance systems for the Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro: The adaptive cruise control system, Audi lane assist and Audi side assist aid the driver in maintaining the proper distance to the vehicle ahead, staying in lane and changing lane, while Audi parking system advanced incorporates a camera for a clear view behind the vehicle.
The optional Audi music interface offers a convenient iPod interface. Available on request, the B&O Advanced Sound System creates an unparalleled acoustic experience. An even more comfortable interior can be achieved with the advanced leather package that includes, among other things, exclusive leather covering of the instrument panel and center console.
The large glass roof open sky system is available to crown the spacious interior - optionally with four, five, six or seven variable seats - as is a rail system for the cargo area of up to 2,035 liters in size.
Presales of the Audi Q7 V12 TDI will begin in the second half of 2008. The most powerful diesel vehicle in its class is the exclusive top-of-the-line model in the Q7 range.
The equipment, data and prices stated here refer to the model range offered for sale in Germany. Subject to amendment; errors and omissions excepted.
Comments
I want one....very badly....
Okay, I understand this is a bloody heavy car but doesn't 5.5 sec 0-60 seems slow for those engine specs?
Wow, as if the V8 Diesel weren't enough overkill, now we can add another four cylinders. Wanna pull some tree stumps on your country estate...?
Buy an Audi Q7...!
Put this engine in an RS-6. Sell it to me.
Fun? sure, but what a waste. Nobody needs that, but since VW had this engine already... Give me a A4 Wagon with a nice 5 cyl TDI.
Wow. They need to paint this thing John Deere green, becuause it can pull like a freakin' tractor. With 20MPG average. And 5.5 seconds to 60MPH isn't slow.
It may be strong, quick and powerful, but it is ugly enough to scare a pit bull off a meat wagon. Ugly as homemade sin. Damned near as ugly as Hillary Clinton. But I will stop short of that comparison.
For the size of the vehicle, those are pretty decent performance specs. The driver had better not engage a forester XT or a mustang GT in an impromptu drag race though..
Also, standard carbon CF-reinforced brakes? Wow, those are showing up on everything :) Getting 20" brakes behind a 20" wheel is a neat trick, too.
The press release is wrong in at least one place though. They say the engine block is '..made of cast vermicular graphite..." which is impossible.
First, you can't cast vermicular graphite, as it comes in little flakes or pellets, and second, because you need SOME iron in there to alloy with the graphite and stuff. So what they mean is MADE WITH vermicular graphite, forming a type of high strength iron.
See the link for details on iron:
[www.key-to-steel.com]
@way_down_east:
Son, that's some kinda ugly. Ya'll gonna have to tie a bone around her nek fur a dawg to lick it! Why does it have damn near Toyota wheels?
Now I could definitely see this bad boy being launched from Oberpfaffelbachen!
@sos10: Really? The VW 4.9 liter V-10 produces 310 HP and 553 lb.-ft. of torque. This 6.0 liter V-12 has 500 HP and 757 lb.-ft. of torque- significantly more Bruce.
This is a whole new monster, and I welcome it.
Your dream A4 Avant just might show up with a 6 cylinder diesel.
@protomech: Actually, it reads that the 20" brakes are behind 21" wheels, but that's still pretty tight
I was more a fan of the Toureg diesel, but it was, of course, discontinued due to the idiotic diesel regs the EPA slapped on motor vehicle engines a few years back. Well, diesel engines coupled to vehicles with less than a 10K trailer-towing capacity....
Me going to look at a VW of any sort, with intent to digest its 'feel' and the concept of future ownership, belongs in the cartoon Bizzaro.
99.5% of those in the USA wouldn't embrace diesel engines if it were the only kind of engine available.
20mpg for a V12 diesel isn't bad at all.
Too bad diesel is almost $4.00 a gallon.
with that much torque, Europe can finally have the full-size pickup they always wanted...
If the Touareg can pull one jumbo jet, can this do two? Or is it more like one and a half? Audi needs to include these stats.
So, according to the press release the 60 degree cylinder angle "prohibits any undesirable free inertial forces and moments of inertia"--thank gawd it's leaving those desirable hoonworthy inertial forces.
I think "Moments of Inertia" would be a good song title. For my life story.
It looks like a bloated Dodge Caliber. Not the kind of thing I'd be willing to pay ~$100K for.
@jsforbes: I suspect this thing can pull a jumbo jet and fly it like a fucking kite...!
As impressive as the engine specs are, I can't help but wonder who the target demographic is for a beast like this?
Perhaps I'm being self centered, but I'm MUCH more excited about the 68MPG diesel-hybrid Golf than a $100K+ 19MPG spot utility.
Looking at this, I think I'd much rather have a $50K Tahoe Hybrid than this Nazi Uber Wagon.
Who knows, maybe it's the alcohol talking.
500 hp, 757.5 (I just love the .5!) lb./ft, 0-62 in 5.5 sec (from a 6,000-ish pound SUV), and near-as-damn 20 mpg?!
If this is what Malaise Era II is going to look like, I no longer fear for our children (not as much, anyway).
to bad these things will probably be driven my Malibu soccer moms with high powered lawyer husbands who will never appreciate the full capabilities of such a Bruce motor. if the automotive world was truly fair hawt cars like this would be distributed to those most truly passionate about the cult of cars. Los Jalops would all get cuts in line ahead of those with fats wallets.
No, really, with 750 ft/lbs of torque, it shouldn't take 5.5 seconds to do anything. It shouldn't take 5.5 seconds to burn to the damn ground-this thing must be a freaking pig.
This is the guy at the gym that waddles in once a week at around 400 pounds of rib-stuck lard and coca-cola just to gets on the bench and max out at 495 (while grunting, looking at the exhaust), then changes into a big-and-tall light gray suit with a bluetooth ear piece and clear reflective gucci glasses.
Either way, its an piece of shit that has one number to brag about, and you look at it and say:
"wow, what a waste of life/engineering...he/it needs to wake up and start giving a shit about health/performance"
@vwminispeedster: somehow i doubt this will even be sold in the USA. even if it is, the lawyer-husbands would probably push for the gas version because they know the emptyheaded Malibu soccer mom will try to fill the diesel up with gasoline. then again, they'd probably see that as a lawsuit opportunity...
@dulcamara: Put this engine in an RS-4. Sell it to me.
I wonder if it's fast enough to outrun the ugly.
Nope, appears not.
With that much torque, traction is probably the limiting factor on those 0-60 times. As for looks, the headlights are too small and the grill is too large. So there, I said it...wanna fight about it?
It looks like they are aiming for the Porsche Cayenne pretty dead on. Shame it doesn't come with a concealed towing package under the rear bumper like the Aviators did.
20mpg is another matter, that's what they claim, and every car maker bloats those numbers up, diesel or not. We'll see under average driving what they get. No 500hp anything gets 20 unless that's a highway estimate, which might happen but just barely.
@Adamskiy: Put this engine in an R8. Sell it to me.
@1300ccsoffury:
Put that engine in a caterham and sell it to me.
With a funeral plan.
It's unfortunate that Audi doesn't have a "real" truck-based SUV to put this in (I'm thinkking G-wagen here), b/c that'd be some seriously precise stump-pullin'.
I'm really stoked for this motor, but it needs to go in something less worthless than a crossover. I'm thinking A6 wagon would be just about right (they already fit a twin-turbo V10 in there somehow).
I see a lot of transmission claims coming with the +700ft-lbs of torque.....
and as usual we won't be seeing this in North America, anyone have a chance to drive a v10 tdi toureg?
I imediatly draw comparos with MBs increadbly unnecessary GL550, which is very similar, except has a a 5.5 liter petrol engine (382 BHP and 391 lb-ft tq). The awsome thing about this is, the AUDI mit DIESEL has a faster 0-100km time than the GL with the petrol. Diesel FTW!
Anyways, they are both unnecessary trucks, und not the best lookers, but when you and your seven 6 ft plus buddies need to drag race together, we have found your truck.
@smokyburnout: And, Oh ya, I would totally buy it.
href="#c4491395">ET_had_a_Wagasm: Put that engine in a S-Class and sell it to me. With quad exausts. And a "taxi" sign on the roof. And German tags.
757.. dang.. and it looks good to
HOLY BALLS, 757 FT LB!
It can tow a Tundra sideways down a freeway at 70mph, and still get it's 19 mpg.
Brilliant.
Too bad the MSRP will be one and one half arms and legs.
I want 757.5 pounds foot. But I need both legs for that.
757.5 lbft? So it achieves 0-60 in 5.5 by standing still and sending the world backwards does it?
The stats are amazing, but it is a truly awful, pointless, pointless car.
I am not impressed with the torque figure. Shouldn't turbo diesels be pumping more than that? Even AMGs twin turbo V12 reach similar figures.
I want to make fun of the front bumper being all-race like and whatnot, but this car is just too, friggin, cool.