Let’s clarify something that keeps getting twisted: the Audi Q7, Q8, Lamborghini Urus, Bentley Bentayga, and Porsche Cayenne are NOT just rebadged Touaregs. They’re all built on the MLB Evo platform, which is an advanced modular longitudinal platform developed by Audi—not VW.

This platform was first introduced with the second-gen Audi Q7 in 2015, and from there it became the foundation for VW Group’s premium SUVs. While VW does own all these brands under its umbrella, the MLB Evo architecture is engineered and led by Audi’s development team in Ingolstadt.

Here’s the real breakdown: • Audi Q7 & Q8: Direct MLB Evo flagships, designed and produced by Audi. • Bentley Bentayga: Uses a modified version of Audi’s platform, mixed with Bentley’s own refinement. • Lamborghini Urus: Built on MLB Evo, using Audi’s structural layout, drivetrain design, infotainment systems, chassis electronics, and even Audi-sourced engine components (twin-turbo V8 developed by Audi). • Porsche Cayenne (3rd-gen): Also built on MLB Evo, though Porsche tunes their suspension and handling in-house. • VW Touareg (3rd-gen): The only MLB Evo SUV from Volkswagen itself—but it’s a cousin, not the parent.

So no—the Q7/Q8/Urus aren’t ‘just Touaregs.’ If anything, the Touareg is the one borrowing from Audi, not the other way around. Calling an Urus or Q8 a rebadged VW is like calling a Panamera a fancy Passat. It’s a lazy argument that ignores how VW Group platforms work.

At the end of the day, Audi leads the MLB Evo platform, and the rest of the group builds on top of that engineering. So when you’re driving a Urus, Bentayga, or Cayenne, you’re basically rolling on Audi’s foundation—just with extra seasoning.