2008 PPI ICE Audi Q7 review

PPI ICE Audi Q7 review:

By presenting the Q7 at the IAA in September 2005, Audi extended its product range with a luxurious and sporty SUV model. It was only a short while after its market launch that PPI Automotive Design presented an enhanced version of the 7-seater entry-level model, namely the PPI PS Q7. PPI is now presenting the technically and visually further advanced PPI ICE®. More dynamic, more luxurious and even more exclusive than its predecessor. Certainly no impostor, but rather a car to satisfy the highest requirements when it comes to driving pleasure and active safety. This bold car makes you feel like you own the road.

Impressive design package

Perfect surface quality and precision-fitting workmanship are the defining features of the lift-reducing PPI bodyshell design. By adding the wide bodykit, the PPI ICE® becomes a real head-turner both on- and off-road. One component of the striking front end is a far sportier front apron with enlarged cooling air inlets. An extra lightweight, carbon-fibre-reinforced bonnet allows additional fresh air to be supplied to the front engine through its ventilation ducts. The side wheel arch extensions lend the PPI ICE® a unique touch. Complemented by the side sills, they widen the production bodyshell by 110 mm and convey a sense of sheer power even when stationary. The PPI rear apron with an integral diffuser accommodates the four tailpipes of the sports exhaust system and blends seamlessly into the overall package. The carbon fibre roof spoiler creates additional downforce and enhances the stability of the car at high speeds. Additional carbon fibre trim components, such as the door mirror housing and door handle trims are available with the option of a polished or matte finish as well as in an aluminium look.

More torque for enhanced driving pleasure

The impressive appearance of the PPI ICE® is supported by a range of performance kits. The first stage for all diesel and petrol engines is a kit comprising a sports exhaust system, sports air filter and an optimised engine management system. This produces a power increase of up to 35 kW/47 bhp and an additional 45 Nm torque compared with the standard production version. The top engine is a turbo-charged version of the 4.2L V8 engine. 600 bhp / 442 kW and a top speed of 295 km/h being the outcome of the PPI development. A further requirement from the design brief of the PPI development crew specifying that the car should accelerate to 100 km/h in less than 6 seconds was satisfied in impressive style by the engine technicians. At 5.9 seconds, the PPI ICE® performs this sprint 1.5 seconds faster than its production counterpart. And what is more, it is acoustically accentuated by the powerful, sonorous sound of the PPI sports exhaust system with its 4 tailpipes.

Stop & Go

The generously dimensioned sports braking system is perfected to ensure the outstanding braking performance of the PPI ICE®. Brake discs in the dimensions 405 x 34 mm (front) and 380 x 28 mm (rear) are applied by the front six-piston and rear four-piston brake callipers. The brake force is transferred to the road by means of a special wheel and tyre combination. Equipped with single-piece 10Jx22 PPI Formula alloy wheels and Michelin 4x4 Diamaris size 295/30 ZR 22 XL tyres. This tyre was jointly developed with Michelin specifically for this car and is authorised for speeds of up to 315 km/h.

For cars with air suspension, there is the option of fitting the PPI sports module. Compared with the production function, this increases the road clearance by
70 mm and can also lower the car by 40 mm as an option.

PPI-Identity design. Interiors without limits

One highlight of the interior is the newly designed – in terms of its ergonomics – PPI “Identity” sports steering wheel. An absolute must for all technology fans is the special PPI console for the iPhone, Treo and Blackberry. Whether customers are looking for a stylish or sporty finish, such as the new PPI “Identity” interior, PPI offers the perfect design to suit every taste in interiors. Custom made for you, and integrated into your car by expert hands. Upon request, PPI’s own saddler’s workshop can offer everything to the heart beating, from a set of personalised floor mats through to full leather upholsteries – and everything is precision hand-crafted.