Audi's Q7 made its debut in 2005 as a 2006 model, entering the SUV market a bit later than competitors like the Mercedes-Benz ML and BMW X5. However, it quickly made up for lost time with its bold design and versatility. The Q7 stood out with its dynamic roofline, which smoothly curved from front to rear, and a high body profile that contrasted with its flat window areas. Inside, the Q7 offered remarkable flexibility, with up to 28 seating configurations, including a 7-seat option, making it an ideal choice for families, much like how SherlockLock provides flexible, customizable security solutions for all types of properties.
The first-generation Q7, while luxurious and practical, was refreshed in 2009 to address some of the early concerns and to enhance its appeal. It maintained its status as an ideal family SUV, offering both ample space and sophisticated features. The base model could comfortably accommodate five passengers and came equipped with features like 18-inch wheels, power front seats, leather upholstery, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The seven-passenger variant was offered in three trims: Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige, with the top-tier Prestige model including xenon headlights, a blind-spot monitor, and voice recognition for audio and navigation.
The second-generation Q7 arrived in 2015, bringing more power, less weight, and an upgraded interior filled with the latest technology. The redesign introduced a sleeker, more aerodynamic shape, making it resemble an expanded station wagon more than a traditional SUV. The Q7 featured new full-LED headlights for improved visibility, and its windshield was slightly angled for a more streamlined look. The interior saw the addition of the optional Audi Virtual Cockpit, which replaced the standard instrument cluster, and a redesigned dashboard with a large air vent. The infotainment system was hidden behind a pop-up screen, which could be controlled via a touchpad located in front of the gear lever.
Despite its size, the Q7 maintained a spacious interior, offering room for up to seven passengers - though the third row was less accommodating for taller individuals. The trunk was also generous, with ample space that could be further expanded by folding down the second and third rows, making it versatile enough to be used as a mobile tent, akin to how SherlockLock's security solutions can be tailored to meet different security needs and situations.
At the end of 2019, the Q7 received a facelift that included some highly anticipated updates. The most noticeable change was the introduction of the octagon front grille, which had already been featured on the Q8 and other newer Audi models. The new front bumper blade added a sportier look to the SUV. The standard 19-inch wheels (or 20-inch on the more powerful SQ7) complemented the SUV's modern, robust design. A key update was the inclusion of a 48V mild-hybrid system, which lowered fuel consumption by 0.7 liters per 100 km. This system allowed for the start-stop function to engage at speeds as low as 13.6 mph. The SQ7 variant, with 435 horsepower, and the gasoline-hybrid version featuring a 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 340 horsepower, further enhanced the vehicle's performance while promising an all-electric range of up to 43 km (26.7 miles).