Through the Auto Express Buy A Car service, Select Car Leasing has introduced a highly competitive offer on the Audi Q7 Black Edition, specifically paired with the 50 TDI V6 powertrain. This configuration, widely regarded by critics and owners as the "sweet spot" of the range, is currently available for £543.92 per month. The deal is structured as a two-year Personal Contract Hire (PCH) agreement, requiring an initial payment of £6,881.04, equivalent to 12 months of rental. For those looking to minimize their upfront capital outlay, an alternative nine-month initial payment option is available at £597.90 per month, which effectively reduces the total cost of the two-year term by approximately £1,100.
Mechanical Specifications and Performance Profile
At the heart of this offer is the 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine, a power unit that has become synonymous with long-distance luxury cruising. In its "50 TDI" guise, the engine produces a robust 282bhp and a substantial 600Nm of torque. This torque figure is particularly critical for a vehicle of the Q7’s stature, providing the effortless "shove" required for overtaking and towing. The power is managed by an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, known for its smooth shifts and intelligent gear selection, and distributed to all four wheels via Audi’s legendary quattro permanent four-wheel-drive system.
Performance remains impressive despite the vehicle’s dimensions. The Q7 50 TDI can sprint from 0-62mph in just 6.5 seconds, reaching a top speed of 150mph where permitted. Beyond raw speed, the inclusion of adaptive air suspension as standard on the Black Edition trim ensures that the vehicle can adapt its characteristics to the driving environment. The system can lower the ride height at motorway speeds to improve aerodynamics and stability, or raise it to navigate uneven terrain or steep driveways.
The Black Edition Trim: Aesthetic and Functional Upgrades
The Black Edition has evolved to become the most sought-after specification in the UK market. Positioned above the S line, it caters to a preference for a more understated, contemporary "de-chromed" look. Key features of this trim include:
- 21-inch Audi Sport Alloy Wheels: Finished in a distinctive design that fills the arches more effectively than the standard 19 or 20-inch options.
- Black Styling Pack: This replaces the traditional chrome window surrounds, grille frame, and bumper inserts with high-gloss black components.
- Anthracite Grey Audi Rings: A subtle modern touch that replaces the bright silver badges.
- Matrix LED Headlights: Providing intelligent beam-shaping technology to maximize visibility without dazzling oncoming traffic.
- Privacy Glass: Dark-tinted rear windows that enhance the vehicle’s profile while providing thermal insulation and security for rear passengers.
Historical Context: The Evolution of the Q7
The Audi Q7 first arrived in 2005, marking the brand’s ambitious entry into the full-sized SUV market. While the first generation was a heavy-set, imposing vehicle, the second generation—launched in 2015—represented a massive leap forward in engineering. Built on the MLB Evo platform (shared with the Bentley Bentayga and Porsche Cayenne), the second-generation Q7 shed up to 325kg compared to its predecessor.
Throughout its lifecycle, the Q7 has been updated to stay ahead of the curve. A major facelift in 2019 introduced the "triple-screen" dashboard architecture seen in the flagship A8 and Q8, while a second update in early 2024 refreshed the exterior lighting signatures and infotainment software. The current deal focuses on the culmination of this development: a vehicle that has had all its "early-production" bugs ironed out and features the most refined version of Audi’s cabin technology.
Chronology of the Audi Q7 Second Generation
- 2015: Launch of the second-generation Q7, featuring a significantly lighter chassis and Virtual Cockpit technology.
- 2016: Introduction of the SQ7 TDI with an electrically powered compressor.
- 2019: Mid-cycle refresh introduces a new octagonal grille and the dual-touchscreen MMI system.
- 2020: Expansion of Plug-in Hybrid (TFSI e) variants to meet tightening emissions standards.
- 2024: Second minor facelift adds customizable light signatures and enhanced connectivity features.
- 2026 (July): Final stock clearance begins as the replacement model enters pre-production phases.
Interior Versatility and Practicality
One of the primary reasons the Q7 has remained a segment leader is its uncompromising approach to interior space. Unlike many SUVs that offer "5+2" seating (where the third row is strictly for children), the Q7 provides a more generous environment. The second row features three individual seats, each with its own ISOFIX point, allowing for three child seats to be fitted side-by-side—a rare feat even in the SUV class.
With all seven seats in use, the boot space is naturally limited, but in the five-seat configuration, it offers a cavernous area for luggage. Folding all rear seats flat transforms the Q7 into a van-like transporter with over 2,000 litres of cargo capacity. The loading lip can even be lowered via buttons in the boot, utilizing the air suspension to make loading heavy items easier.
Market Analysis: Why Buy the Outgoing Model?
The decision to lease or purchase a car at the end of its production cycle is a classic dilemma for motorists. While the upcoming replacement promises more screens and potentially longer electric-only ranges for hybrid models, there are several objective reasons why the current Q7 remains a superior choice for many:
- Ergonomics: The outgoing Q7 strikes a balance between touchscreens and physical controls. Many drivers find the tactile feedback of the current steering wheel buttons and stalk controls more intuitive than the haptic-touch surfaces expected on future models.
- Proven Powertrains: The 3.0-litre V6 diesel is a known quantity with a vast support network. For high-mileage drivers, the efficiency and range of this diesel engine are difficult to match with current battery-electric alternatives.
- Financial Value: Manufacturers typically offer significant "trunk money" or subvented lease rates to clear remaining inventory. A £543 monthly payment for a car with a list price exceeding £70,000 is a result of these strategic subsidies.
- Immediate Availability: While new models often suffer from long lead times and "launch edition" premiums, outgoing models are generally available for immediate delivery.
Broader Impact and Industry Implications
The transition of the Q7 marks a broader shift in the Volkswagen Group’s strategy. As Audi moves toward its goal of becoming an electric-only brand by the early 2030s, the next Q7 is expected to lean heavily into electrification, potentially sharing more DNA with the Q8 e-tron. This makes the current deal one of the last opportunities to secure a traditional, large-displacement internal combustion engine in a premium SUV wrapper.
Industry analysts suggest that the luxury SUV market is currently in a state of flux. With interest rates fluctuating and the residual values of electric vehicles seeing volatility, the stability of a two-year lease on a high-demand diesel SUV like the Q7 offers a "safe harbor" for consumer capital. By the time this two-year lease expires in 2028, the market for the next generation of vehicles will have matured, and charging infrastructure will be more robust, making it an ideal "bridge" vehicle.
Final Assessment of the Deal
The Audi Q7 Black Edition 50 TDI represents the pinnacle of the traditional luxury SUV. It offers a level of build quality and mechanical sophistication that has been refined over a decade of production. While the "new" model will undoubtedly bring more digital flair, the current model’s blend of 600Nm of torque, seven-seat practicality, and the prestige of the Black Edition trim makes it a formidable package at this price point.
Potential lessees should note that the default mileage cap for this specific offer is 5,000 miles per annum. However, the flexibility of the deal allows for an increase to 8,000 miles for an additional £15 per month. Given the Q7’s prowess as a long-distance tourer, this minor adjustment is likely a worthwhile investment for most families. As the sun sets on this generation of German engineering, this Deal of the Day serves as a reminder that sometimes the best time to buy a car is just before everyone else stops talking about it.
