Audi Q7 Updated, Infotainment Screen Moves to Dash - Yes, It's a Big Deal [UPDATED]

A large portion of the automotive industry tends to follow Audi’s lead on interior design. That has resulted in the proliferation of the worst phenomenon in modern automotive history — the floating tablet-style infotainment screen.

With the refresh of the Audi Q7, the biggest scourge on automotive design since spinner wheels may finally be coming to an end.

The Q7 receives some comprehensive updates in this “minor model change,” both visually and mechanically. The visual updates bring the SUV more in line with the rest of Audi’s design language, which the more rakish Q8 already possesses. The signature trapezoidal grille is flanked by larger air inlets — at least in S line trim — while headlights and taillights have been updated, featuring available HD Matrix LED technology with Audi laser light for forward projection.

New chassis upgrades are available in the updated Q7. Active roll stabilization (active anti-roll bars) can soften to reduce the impact of single-side inputs on straight road but stiffen to provide better roll control and response when cornering. The S line trim will lower the ride height by 15 mm and provide firmer damping tuning to the standard air suspension.

All-wheel steering continues to be available, turning the rear wheels by up to 5 degrees opposite to the front wheels at low speed to improve agility. At highway speeds, the rear wheels steer in the same direction as the fronts to aid stability.

Powertrain updates bring a 48V mild-hybrid system to all gas and diesel variants, though we do not yet have confirmation that either of the two diesel engines are headed for our shores. The Q7 is currently available with 2.0T and 3.0T engines. A new Plug-in Hybrid version is expected further down the line.

[UPDATE: Audi USA confirmed that the Q7 refresh will be a US MY20, arriving in 2020. There will be no TDI engine for the US Market.]

The inside is where the biggest changes are felt. Most significantly is the change from a tablet-style infotainment display that popped up from the top of the dash. Audi’s MMI infotainment system is now housed handsomely in the middle of the dash, where the good Lord intended. It is complimented by an additional display below it for the HVAC controls, as well as the virtual cockpit gauge cluster.

Here’s what the current Q7 looks like, for reference.

I absolutely cannot stand any floating tablet-style infotainment screen and despise that Audi started this trend. Their interiors have always been a benchmark for the auto industry, who have largely followed whatever they did. Apparently, few interior designers looked at each other and asked, “does this look like shit?” Except for FCA. And congratulations to Ralph Gilles and his team for sticking with what’s right.

Hopefully, with Audi having come to their senses and integrating their infotainment screens into the dash, the rest of the industry will follow suit.

[Images: Audi]