Almost a decade since the first model was launched, Audi finally brought the 2016 Q7 full-size SUV at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Based on the reworked Audi->ke14 MLB platform, the all-new Q7 sheds up to 700 pounds of weight compared with the first-generation model, also increasing its fuel efficiency by about 26 percent -- not a hard thing to do considering that the first generation was an elephant on wheels. Shortly after the market launch, which should take place during the Spring of 2015, the new Audi SUV will receive a plug-in hybrid diesel variant, which the Ingolstadt carmaker says that it will return around 138 mpg according to the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC).

The model's proportions are completely different compared with the previous generation, with the 2016 Q7 being shorter and narrower while having almost the same height. From the distance it gives a very Subaru Forester-like vibe, despite the fact that in terms of design motifs it is clearly an Audi. The single-frame grille is now wider and sits a bit lower, just like Audi's new chief of design promised for all upcoming Audi models, while the headlights now feature either xenon, LED or Audi's Matrix LED technology from the A8.->ke1089

An all-new interior with higher perceived quality seems to adorn the vehicle, with the instrument panel now being separated horizontally into two colors. Despite being a tad shorter, the cabin of the 2016 Audi Q7 is a bit more welcoming in terms of space. With that in mind, the optional third row of seats is now certified as Group 3 child seats, meaning that most of the extra space has gone toward the first five passengers. Improved connectivity courtesy of the MMI navigation plus infotainment system is now available, since it also can connect the new Q7 to the Internet via LTE. All in all, the new Q7 is filled with technology and is much more fuel efficient, with the only major caveat being its rather bland and unprovocative exterior design.

Click past the jump to read more about the 2016 Audi Q7.

Why it matters

Since the new head of design at Audi, Marc Lichte, too the helms after most of the design details of the new Q7 had been chosen, it is safe to say that the model doesn't sport too many motifs from the upcoming Audi design language. With that being said, I think that the first generation had a much better exterior design and I have a feeling that I'm not exactly part of a minority saying that. On the other hand, the immense drop in overall weight, its fuel economy efficiency and large amount of high tech features should be enough to complement its rather inviting interior, despite the fact that it's not exactly pleasant to look at. Hopefully, its mid-cycle refresh will bring improved styling to go along with the model's above-average technology features.

Audi Q7