Audi Q7 e-tron quattro

Technology: Plug-in petrol hybrid

Acceleration: 6.0 seconds

Top Speed: 139mph

CO2 Emissions: 50 g/km*

Economy: 166 MPG (combined)

Official EV driving range: 30 miles*

Power: 368bhp

BIK percentage: 5% (15/16); 7% (16/17); 9% (17/18)*

Arrival date: Due late 2015

*Expected figures

With the Audi Q7 due out in October, attention is focused on the hybrid version set to join the model line-up. Announced at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2015, the Q7 e-tron quattro is Audi’s first ever plug-in diesel hybrid.

Incorporating a 3.0 litre TDI engine and electric motor, the Audi has an electric-only range of around 30 miles. Combine this with the popular 258hp diesel unit and the range comes in at more than 870 miles.

Despite being a large car, the Q7 e-tron quattro has a focus on efficiency.  Audi has saved more than 300kg over the previous model which helps keep CO2 emissions down to around 50 g/km. This, along with ideas such as using waste heat from the hybrid’s batteries to warm-up the interior, contribute to a large SUV that is surprisingly frugal.

Comfort has been Audi’s other main focus with air suspension available to provide a supple and level ride. A plush cabin, the ability to control functions including the car’s charging and air conditioning systems via a smartphone, and kit such as Audi’s virtual cockpit digital display – which replaces analogue dials with a customisable screen in front of the driver – all add up to create a luxurious machine.