Audi Q7 hybrid performance, top speed & engine

Thanks to a glut of low-down torque (courtesy of the electric motor) the Audi Q7 TFSI e feels very quick from a standing start – irrespective of powertrain. The 55 TFSI e engine is offered with all trim levels bar Competition and uses a 3.0-litre turbo V6 petrol engine and single electric motor. This setup produces 375bhp and 600Nm of torque.

The 60 TFSI e uses the same size engine and produces the same amount of torque (600Nm) but makes 456bhp – a sizeable 81bhp more than the 55 TFSI e. Only the Competition trim level is available with the 60 TFSI e powertrain. All versions send their power through an eight-speed automatic gearbox and a quattro four-wheel-drive system. 

Audi Q7 hybrid 0-62mph, top speed and acceleration

Extracting performance from a Q7 is almost effortless. Pin the throttle in the 55 TFSI e and it'll go from 0-62mph in 5.9 seconds, while the more powerful 60 TFSI e shaves half a second off that time. Top speed is 149mph for both

Crucially for low-emission motoring, the battery and electric motor are powerful enough to get up to motorway speeds with no assistance from the petrol engine. Even when switching from pure-electric to petrol-assisted modes, the Q7 performs well. Furthermore, while using the petrol engine to cruise at motorway speeds, the Q7 is very quiet; road and wind noise are kept at bay, too.

Handling

Sometimes the addition of a large battery pack can ruin a car’s handling, but this isn't the case with Audi’s Q7 plug-in. The suspension keeps any body lean in check through corners, but also promises plenty of passenger comfort. Driving enjoyment is let down by the steering, though, as feedback and feel are minimal.