Chismillionaire's next SUV gets Green Light for production

Dynamic Diesel: Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro headed for production

Audi's gone and done it. After cramming its V-12 TDI diesel powerhouse engine into concept versions of both the Q7 (2007 Detroit show) and R8 (2008 Detroit), the automaker has decided to forge ahead with a production version of the Q7 called the Audi Q7 V12 TDI quattro.

At the heart of the matter is Audi's amazing, twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter diesel producing an eye-popping 500 horsepower and 757 lb-ft of torque. Not surprisingly, all that power translates to 0-62 mph times around 5.5 seconds for the Q7 according to Audi, an impressive sprint for an SUV of its size. Top speed will be limited to 155 mph. Despite its sizzling performance, Audi says the V12 TDI is also fairly fuel efficient, achieving just short of 20 mpg in the Q7-equipped model.

Mated to the engine is a six-speed automatic with a tiptronic feature that was massaged in order to handle the engine's massive torque. And of course, the Q7 will come with quattro four-wheel drive as standard equipment that distributes the power in a 40:60 ratio front to rear, providing the vehicle with a rear-drive biased setup that is meant to enhance its sporting intentions.

The Q7 V12 TDI will roll on 20-inch rims standard (21-inchers will be available) and will be halted thanks to a carbon ceramic brake setup featuring eight-piston calipers up front, four piston units in the rear. Exterior changes include modifications to the front bumper and grille, headlamps, exhaust outlets and stainless steel underbody plates. Inside, there's updated interior trim along with Audi's top shelf on board tech, including the automaker's latest safety and entertainment options.

At the 2008 Geneva show, Audi will be trotting out a concept-themed version of the vehicle called Audi Q7 coastline, which is largely an interior trim package (interior photos below) that's inspired by luxury yachts. We expect the Q7 V12 TDI will be pulling a few expensive boats around as part of its duties when it hits the streets.

Audi says presales of the vehicle will begin later this year, and it will likely be a 2009 model. It shouldn't be cheap -- expect pricing to scrape up near the $100,000 mark or more. No word yet if the vehicle will come to the U.S., but you can be sure we'll be asking that question during the Geneva show press days this Tuesday and Wednesday, March 4-5.