Audi Offers Its Smallest Engine For Its Biggest Crossover

Audi’s Q7 can now be optioned with a downsized motor — which is perfect for that tiny cross-section of America that doesn’t feel the need to prove itself with a big engine but also wants to own the largest and most expensive crossover Audi offers.

Huzzah?

Audi America announced today a new 2.0-liter turbo four-pot is incoming on the 2017 Q7 lineup. With 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque on offer, the new turbo mill is focused on efficiency and saving weight to improve driving dynamics. Despite the generous reduction in displacement, Audi assures us that the new 2.0T engine will reach 60 mph a half-second faster than the previous-generation 2015 Audi Q7 3.0 V6, which was also heavier and made 280 hp.

It is, however, a far cry away from the current incarnation of the 3.0-liter turbo already available in the Q7. At 333 horses and a healthy 325 lb-ft of torque, it will remain the choice for those who don’t need that extra nth of fuel efficiency. But the little two-fer will still have an audience if buyers believe Audi’s efficiency claims of 22 percent over the previous V6.

Audi says that enhancements to the exhaust manifold integration, valve lift system and some clever thermal management all work together to curb fuel consumption, though its EPA-estimated 22 mpg on the combined cycle isn’t exactly going to make the Q7 a must have for hyper-milers.

The micro motor makes things more affordable for cash-strapped Audi customers, though. Starting at $49,000, the base 2.0 TFSI model, still referred to as “Premium”, comes in at almost six grand less than the 3.0 liter.

Audi says the leaner-engined crossover will go on sale early next year.

[Image: Audi]