Its been a while since we last caught the next-generation Audi Q7 out testing, but today we had the chance to see it out again, and it looks like Audi's->ke14 been pretty busy.

The prototype caught testing today seems to wear the final body kit and it also dropped that nasty black cover seen on the last model in favor of a new one that allows us to see the lines of the new Q7->ke1083.

Previous rumors suggested that for the new Q7, Audi will use lots of aluminum and other weight-saving materials that will help drop about 400 kg (about 880 pounds) from the total weight of the current eneration.

The new Audi Q7 will be built on a new platform that it will share with the upcoming Volkswagen Touareg->ke321, Porsche Cayenne->ke212 and the upcoming Bentley SUV. Under the hood, it will offer both gasoline and diesel engines, with a hybrid powertrain also being a possibility.

Expect the new Audi Q7 to arrive in late 2014 as a 2015 model.

Spy shots

Even though the prototype caught testing today wears lots of camouflage, it's still pretty clear that the next Q7 will feature a new design language, with more elegant lines and more powerful shapes.

Of course, you should be able to recognize the Q7 pretty easily, but you should also expect a new set of headlights, a more aggressive front bumper and a new grille. The rear will also be defined by a new set of taillights, a new bumper and most likely new end pipes for the exhaust system.