MAS 2025: Audi Q7 3.0 TFSI S Line (CKD) debut lays groundwork laid for broader offensive against BMW, Merc

Audi has officially launched its new Q7 at the Malaysia Auto Show 2025, priced at RM462k for the sole 3.0 TFSI S line variant, marking a significant milestone for the brand, especially in regard to furthering its locally assembled ambitions to pry our market away from the grip of its rivals Mercedes-Benz and BMW.

More than merely a showcase of Audi’s ‘Vorsprung Durch Technik’-ness, it’s also a strategic milestone for PHS Autohaus as this Q7 is the first Audi model to be locally assembled in Malaysia, and indeed, the first in Southeast Asia.

That said, it did have something of a running start with the availability of the closely related Volkswagen Touareg since 2024, which also rolls off the production line in Pekan, Pahang.

The version available in Malaysia is the second facelift of the second-generation Q7. Previously sold at nearly RM600,000, this updated model sports a sharper front fascia with redesigned HD Matrix LED headlights, an octagonal Singleframe grille, and vertical air inlets. The rear also gets a facelift with OLED taillights that can be customised in appearance.

Positioned as a 7-seater luxury SUV, the Q7 stands among a strong flank of opponents with its German peers, but manages to undercut both the BMW X5 xDrive50e (RM494,800) and the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 (RM524,888). It's also worth noting that only the Audi and Mercedes offer third-row seating, giving the Q7 an edge in practicality.

As is the unfortunate case with cars from German premium marques, the Q7 stingily includes a mere 2-year of unlimited mileage warranty, though buyers can opt for the Audi Assurance Package, which extends the warranty and includes a servicing package, bringing the total to RM482,422.

Under the bonnet, the Q7 features a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 petrol engine, producing 340 PS and 500 Nm of torque that’s also shared with the Volkswagen Touareg (and Porsche Cayenne) while also benefitting from a 48-volt mild-hybrid system to nudge up fuel efficiency, allowing the SUV to coast with the engine off for up to 40 seconds between speeds of 55 and 160 km/h.

In this guise, the Q7 sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.6 seconds, slightly quicker than its Touareg cousin, and tops out at an electronically-limited 250 km/h. The mill is mated to an 8-speed ZF automatic gearbox and Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel drive system.

Standard equipment includes the S Line package, enhancing the SUV’s sporty aesthetics with unique bumpers, body-coloured cladding, and a rear diffuser. A black styling package gives a stealthy touch with darkened exterior elements, while large 22-inch Audi Sport two-tone V-spoke alloy wheels complete the aggressive look.

Inside, the Q7’s cabin has evolved to resemble the premium and coupe-like Q8, boasting a tech-heavy dashboard with 4 (four!) digital displays: a 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit that can show 3D surroundings, a 10.1-inch upper touchscreen running the MIB 3 infotainment suite, and an 8.6-inch lower screen dedicated to climate and vehicle controls.

Quilted Valcona leather sports seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, and ambient lighting elevate the cabin’s appeal. Seats are power-adjustable and offer heating, ventilation, memory functions, and lumbar support.

Other tech and convenience features abound, including a head-up display, soft-close doors, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging, and a 19-speaker Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system. It also features adaptive air suspension, rear-wheel steering, a hands-free powered tailgate, and a 360-degree camera with park assist. We’d venture to say that this is probably the most well-specified option in its class, at least here in Malaysia.

Lastly, on the safety front, the Q7 offers nothing less than a comprehensive ADAS suite that includes autonomous emergency braking (front and rearward), adaptive cruise control with stop & go, lane keep assist, evasive steering, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert,, a door opening warning, and adaptive high beam assist.