Audi begins local assembly of Q7 in Malaysia
AUDI has set the stage for more for more locally assembled luxury models after kicking off the production of its flagship Q7 sports utility vehicle (SUV) in Pekan, Pahang on Thursday.
This also marks a significant milestone as the first Audi model in the premium luxury segment to be assembled in Southeast Asia.
As Audi continues expanding its footprint, the Q7 local production represents a significant leap toward establishing Malaysia as a key production hub for high-end vehicles.
The move reinforces Audi's commitment to strengthening its presence in the region, catering to the growing demand for high-end mobility solutions.
Expanding automotive production in Malaysia
The seven-seater mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) is being manufactured at the Volkswagen Group Malaysia assembly plant in Pekan, the only Audi production facility in Southeast Asia.
The plant, which already assembles Volkswagen models for Malaysia, operates in partnership with DRB-HICOM Bhd under a contract manufacturing arrangement.
Volkswagen Group Malaysia (VGM) managing director Dr. Susanne Lehmann emphasised the plant's role as a centre of excellence, with a modernised product portfolio designed to uphold Audi's renowned standards in quality, performance and luxury, now locally assembled.
"Today marks more than just the launch of a car. It is a symbol of vision, partnership, innovation and progress."
VGM's world-class German engineering production and infrastructure here represents the highest standards of quality, sustainability and smart manufacturing, she added.
Investment and future expansion
With an initial investment of over RM12 million, the Pekan plant is set to produce up to 5,000 Audi vehicles per annum, with plans to expand its lineup beyond the Q7 in the future.
The Pekan plant currently assembles Volkswagens Golf, Arteon, Tiguan Allspace and Touareg.
The localisation of Audi's production aligns with rising demand for luxury vehicles in Malaysia, fuelled by urbanisation, increasing disposable incomes and a shift toward premium mobility solutions.
According to PHS Automotive Malaysia managing director Denyu Bostandzhiev, local assembly offers competitive pricing and shorter delivery times for Malaysian customers.
"Given the rising demand for D-segment SUVs, now is the perfect time to introduce the Q7, ensuring Audi's presence is strengthened in Malaysia and across the region," he stated.
Performance and features
The Q7 S Line Mild Hybrid (MHEV) being produced in Pekan is powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine, delivering 340 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque.
It features an eight-speed Tiptronic gearbox and a 48-volt mild hybrid system, enabling engine-off coasting for up to 40 seconds between speeds of 55 to 160 km/h.
The SUV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.6 seconds, with a top speed of 250 km/h2.
Luxury and technology
The Q7 comes equipped with advanced features, including:
* Quattro permanent all-wheel drive for superior handling.
* Adaptive air suspension for a smooth ride.
* Four-wheel steering for enhanced maneuverability.
* Bang & Olufsen 3D premium sound system for immersive audio.
* HD Matrix LED headlights with laser high beams for optimal visibility.
* OLED taillights with customizable light signatures2.
Pricing
The Q7 S Line MHEV is priced between RM469,000 and RM489,000, making it a strong competitor against other luxury SUVs like the BMW X5 xDrive50e (about RM494,800) and Mercedes-Benz GLE450 (about RM524,888).
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