Is the Audi Q7 Equipped with a Torsen Differential?
2 Answers
The Audi Q7 is equipped with a Torsen differential. The Q7 shares the same four-wheel-drive structure as the Q5, both utilizing a full-time four-wheel-drive system primarily based on the Torsen central differential structure. The Q7 employs Audi's proprietary quattro four-wheel-drive system, which has become a distinctive hallmark of the brand. The self-locking central differential used in the Q7 is housed within the transmission casing, a design that makes the four-wheel-drive system more compact. Both the front and rear axles of the vehicle are equipped with open differentials. The new-generation Q7 features a redesigned front headlight assembly with an irregular rectangular design, incorporating L-shaped daytime running lights and xenon headlights. The front fascia has also been updated, giving the car a lower and more aggressive appearance. The rear lights of the new-generation Q7 have been completely redesigned and feature strip-shaped LED light clusters. In terms of powertrain, the new-generation Q7 is available with gasoline engines such as the 3.0 FSI and 4.0 FSI, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
I've driven several generations of the Q7, and this issue depends on the model year. The first-gen Q7 before 2015 indeed used a purely mechanical Torsen differential, with that distinctive solid gear-engagement feel of full-time AWD. However, the second-gen model after the 2015 redesign switched to a crown-gear center differential—while still maintaining full-time AWD, its torque distribution logic became electronically controlled via a multi-plate clutch. The latest third-gen Q7 has adopted the quattro ultra on-demand AWD system, even capable of disconnecting the driveshaft. To experience the mechanical charm of Torsen, you'd need to find pre-2015 models.
