First previewed in concept form at the Detroit Auto Show in January, Audi’s V12 TDI Q7 is now expected to enter production. An Audi official, who spoke with AutoTelegraaf, revealed that the new V12 monster will hit showrooms in the second half of next year, but, until then, execs will focus on the 4.2L V8 TDI version.

With 500hp on tap and a massive 1,000Nm of torque available from a low 1,750rpm, the new V12 TDI is the most powerful engine on offer in the Q7 range and is also the most powerful diesel engine offered in a production car.

The 0-100km/h time should take just 5.5 seconds and top speed will be an electronically limited 250km/h. Despite the superb performance numbers, the engine’s fuel economy figure is rated at 19.8mpg (11.9L/100km) and it already meets Euro V emissions standards due in 2010.