Audi's current-generation Q7 debuted way back in 2006, so it's fair to say a replacement is long overdue.
These Automedia spy pics captured on public roads in Germany reveal a prototype that, although heavily disguised, appears close to production-ready. It's possible the all-new Q7 could debut at the Paris motor show in October, or at next January's Detroit motor show.
Due on sale next year, the gargantuan SUV is believed to be around 350kg lighter than the existing model, which tips the scales around 2.3 tonnes (depending on model variant).
The weight-shedding diet is crucial, particularly in light of the dynamic capabilities of BMW's recently launched X5 and the accomplished all-alloy Range Rover.
Although lighter than the outgoing model, the new Q7 doesn't appear physically smaller – in fact, it features a slightly boxier roofline to provide more space for the third-row passengers.
Underpinned by the VW Group's new PL73 platform that will also be used for the upcoming Lamborghini Urus, next-gen Porsche Cayenne, VW Touareg and Bentley Falcon, the new Q7 will be primarily made of steel – around 60 per cent – with the other 40 per cent comprising a mix of aluminium and carbon-fibre components.
Some reports suggest Audi may resort to a composite tailgate and front wings to further optimise the vehicle's girth.
Given that the existing Q7 3.0 TDI weighs around the 2300kg, it's possible the new vehicle will tip the scales just under the 2000kg mark. By comparison, a new BMW X5 xDrive 30d weighs in at 2145kg.
The new Q7's powertrain line-up will kick off with a 2.0 TDI four-cylinder turbo-diesel that ekes out about 150kW and 400Nm, putting it more or less on par with the Mercedes ML250 and BMW X5 sDrive25d.
Also on the menu are a 225kW petrol V6, a 203kW V6 turbo-diesel, and a 300kW V8 TDI. In addition, Audi is believed to be considering a flagship S Q7 variant that will be propelled by the 412kW 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 from the RS6 and RS7.