The Audi Q7 55 TFSI e quattro tiptronic, produced from December 2019 to September 2020, represents a significant step in Audi’s push towards electrification within its popular SUV lineup. This variant, based on the Typ 4M Q7 platform following its 2019 facelift, combines a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine with a powerful electric motor and a plug-in hybrid system. Positioned as a premium offering, it aimed to deliver both strong performance and improved fuel efficiency compared to the conventionally powered Q7 models. It was primarily marketed in Europe and other regions with established charging infrastructure, offering a blend of luxury, space, and reduced emissions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | Q7 |
| Generation | Q7 (Typ 4M, facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 55 TFSI e V6 (381 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid quattro tiptronic |
| Start of production | December, 2019 |
| End of production | September, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 3.1-3.9 l/100 km (75.9 – 60.3 US mpg, 91.1 – 72.4 UK mpg, 32.3 – 25.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 71-87 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (NEDC) – combined | 2.8-3 l/100 km (84 – 78.4 US mpg, 100.9 – 94.2 UK mpg, 35.7 – 33.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 64-69 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.4 kg/Hp, 155.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 244.9 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 17.3 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 308 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery weight | 202 kg (445.33 lbs.) |
| Battery location | Under the trunk |
| Recuperation output | 80 kW |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 39-43 km (24.23 – 26.72 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (NEDC) | 21.9-22.4 kWh/100 km (35.24 – 36.05 kWh/100 mi, 96 – 93 MPGe, 4.6 – 4.5 km/kWh, 2.8 – 2.8 mi/kWh) |
| Max speed (electric) | 135 km/h (83.89 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 128 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| System power | 381 Hp |
| System torque | 600 Nm (442.54 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 340 Hp @ 5200-6400 rpm |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 1340-5300 rpm (331.9 lb.-ft. @ 1340-5300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | DCBE |
| Engine displacement | 2995 cm3 (182.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2450 kg (5401.33 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3145 kg (6933.54 lbs.) |
| Max load | 695 kg (1532.21 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 650 l (22.95 cu. ft.) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2700 kg (5952.48 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 115 kg (253.53 lbs.) |
| Length | 5063 mm (199.33 in.) |
| Width | 1970 mm (77.56 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2212 mm (87.09 in.) |
| Height | 1741 mm (68.54 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2995 mm (117.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1679 mm (66.1 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1690 mm (66.54 in.) |
| Front overhang | 977 mm (38.46 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1091 mm (42.95 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.5 m (41.01 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and the electric motor permanently drive the four wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 255/55 R19; 285/45 R20; 285/40 R21; 285/35 R22 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 19; 9J x 20; 9.5J x 21; 10J x 22 |
INTRODUCTION
The Audi Q7 55 TFSI e quattro tiptronic, launched in late 2019, is a plug-in hybrid variant of the second-generation Q7 (Typ 4M). Following the facelift of the 4M Q7, this model integrated a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine with an electric motor, offering a combined system output of 381 horsepower. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a large, luxurious SUV with reduced environmental impact and the flexibility of electric-only driving for shorter commutes. The ‘55 TFSI e’ designation reflects Audi’s power classification for plug-in hybrid models, indicating its performance level within the Q7 range. This model was a key component of Audi’s strategy to expand its e-tron lineup and offer more electrified options to its customers.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Q7 55 TFSI e lies the DCBE engine, a 2,995 cc turbocharged 3.0-liter V6. This engine produces 340 horsepower and 450 Nm (331.9 lb-ft) of torque. It utilizes direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance efficiency and power delivery. The electric motor, positioned between the engine and the eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission, contributes an additional 128 horsepower and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque. The combined system output is 381 horsepower and 600 Nm (442.54 lb-ft). The 17.3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is located under the trunk floor, impacting cargo space slightly. Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system is standard, intelligently distributing power between the front and rear axles. The transmission is an eight-speed tiptronic automatic, optimized for smooth shifts and efficient power transfer. The engine management system seamlessly blends power from the combustion engine and electric motor, offering various driving modes including EV-only, hybrid, and sport.
Driving Characteristics
The Q7 55 TFSI e delivers a refined and capable driving experience. In electric-only mode, it offers a quiet and smooth ride, suitable for urban driving with a range of approximately 24-27 miles (WLTP). Switching to hybrid mode allows the vehicle to automatically manage the interplay between the engine and motor, prioritizing efficiency. The combined power output provides brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 5.6 seconds. The eight-speed tiptronic transmission provides smooth and responsive gear changes. Compared to the Q7 45 TDI (diesel) or the Q7 50 TFSI (gasoline), the 55 TFSI e offers a different character. The diesel provides superior fuel economy on long journeys, while the gasoline version delivers a more direct and sporty feel. The hybrid prioritizes efficiency and electric range, making it ideal for drivers with shorter commutes and access to charging infrastructure. The added weight of the battery pack is noticeable, but the quattro all-wheel drive system maintains excellent handling and stability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Q7 55 TFSI e typically came well-equipped, reflecting its premium positioning. Standard features included Audi’s virtual cockpit, a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, leather upholstery, three-zone automatic climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. Safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking were also standard. Optional extras included upgraded leather packages, a Bang & Olufsen sound system, massaging front seats, and various driver-assistance systems. The interior design was consistent with other Q7 models, emphasizing luxury and technology. Trim levels were often bundled with specific option packages, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle to their preferences.
Chassis & Braking
The Q7 55 TFSI e utilizes a fully independent suspension system, with multi-link setups at both the front and rear axles. This provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Transverse stabilizers help to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control are standard safety features. Due to the added weight of the battery pack, the suspension was tuned to provide optimal balance and control. The steering is an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Q7 55 TFSI e was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of luxury, performance, and efficiency. However, some reviewers noted the reduced cargo space due to the battery pack and the relatively high price compared to conventional Q7 models. Compared to the Q7 45 TDI, the 55 TFSI e offered lower running costs for drivers who primarily commute short distances and can take advantage of electric-only driving. However, the diesel version provided superior fuel economy on long journeys. Against the Q7 50 TFSI, the hybrid offered a more environmentally friendly option, but with slightly less overall performance. The Q7 55 TFSI e appealed to buyers who prioritized sustainability and were willing to pay a premium for a plug-in hybrid SUV.
Legacy
The Audi Q7 55 TFSI e represents an important step in Audi’s transition towards electrification. While production was relatively short-lived, it demonstrated the feasibility of combining a large SUV with plug-in hybrid technology. The powertrain, while complex, has proven to be generally reliable, with the primary concerns revolving around battery degradation over time. On the used car market, these models hold their value reasonably well, particularly those with low mileage and well-maintained batteries. The Q7 55 TFSI e paved the way for Audi’s subsequent plug-in hybrid offerings and helped to establish the brand as a leader in electrified luxury vehicles.
