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Audi unveils the Q7 V12 TDI
By Yoann Besnard on 4 March 2008 | 
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Audi has taken the wraps off the most powerful diesel ever in production under its SUV, a V12 that has a power output close to 500bhp.
The new Q7’s flagship is powered by a twin-turbocharged 6.0-litre V12 engine which generates 493bhp and a massive torque output of 758lb ft. The Q7 V12 can shuttle the 0-62mph in just 5.5 seconds and reach an electronically limited top speed of 155mph. Despite those impressive figures, the V12 remains frugal and achieve 19.8mpg.
The V12 unit is hooked up to a six-speed tiptronic transmission specially designed to endure the massive torque. The driver can shoft gears either with the gear lever or with the shift paddles on the steering wheel.
Audi’s Quattro permanent four-wheel drive system is standard. It is capable of diverting 60 per cent of the power to the rear wheel and up to 40% to the front wheels.
On the outside, the V12 differs form normal versions by larger wheelarches, new 20in alloy wheels, aluminium caps on the side mirrors, revamped bumpers, darkened taillights and new door moldings. On the inside, there is a mix of carbon and aluminium panels.
The Q7 V12 TDi will hit the showrooms before the end of this year.
