Audi Q7 3.0 TFSI quattro 5dr Car Review - January 2012

The Audi Q7 3.0 TFSI Quattro is an Automatic transmission 4x4 powered by a V6-cylinder, 24-valve, with a sporty 8-speed tiptronic gear. With a 140mph top speed, this car is fast enough for trips on tarmac roads. A low 26.4 mpg is tolerable for a race car but not for a 4x4 family car. Acceleration from 0-62 mph is achieved in 7.9 seconds which indicates that the Q7 can handle speed.

The 2995cc engine revs up at 275 bph at 4750-6500 rpm and with a powerful torque of 295 ft-lb at 2250-4750 revolution per minute. Ride and handling are smooth and comfortable, which makes this 4x4 an ideal family car if your -petrol allowance permits. Driving position is not stressful so is the handling of the steering wheel. In spite of its bulk, the air-suspension experience found in Q7 makes the car surprisingly responsive. Visibility from the rear window is lacking probably due to the rear’s pinched look.

The Q7 is definitely a premium car with its S-Line trim, brushed metal details and full-size alloy wheels. This car is a head-turner but aesthetically-speaking, its pinched rear, rounded “nose” and heavy sides make this model look bulky. The cabin is spacious and capable of comfortably seating 7 persons though the 3rd row is a tad cramped for a full-grown person.

The interior is beautifully laid out with quality materials while the dashboard is arranged to minimize clutter. The Q7 actually has an innovative rotary knob for controlling the SAT NAV, stereo and air-suspension functions on system menus on a screen.

The Audi Q7 is loaded with standard equipment such as cruise control, power steering, central locking, stability control, climate control, electric front and doors, alarm, air bags for driver, passengers, immobilizer, MP3 connectivity and CD, ABS and more. Other options such as aluminium and wood trim for the cabin, a panoramic sunroof spanning the three rows of seats, power and heated seats are available for added cost.

Safety is foremost as all Audis are superbly engineered to address looks, safety, reliability and comfort. Audi’s reputation for excellent interiors is confirmed in a Q7. Materials used are tough and of superior quality. Every control works in polished precision. The quality of the Q7’s interior is superior but the last row of seats is not easy to access. The boot is large at 765 litres with seats up and 2035 litres with the seats down, which is larger than a Land Rover Discovery. The tailgate is a one-piece affair which makes stowing items at the back easier.

The Audi Q7 has a Euro NCAP Occupant Protection rating of 4/5, a Euro NCAP Pedestrian Protection Rating of 2/5 and NCPA Child Protection Rating of 4/5. CO2 emission is at a high 249g/km. Warranty based on mileage is 60,000 miles. Green rating is L.

The price of the Audi Q7 at £42,590 is average for cars in that level. The Q7 falls under the car insurance group 40 as the Volvo XC70, BMW 3 Series and Mercedes Benz E Class. Road Tax is group L as the BMW X6 and Land Rover Discovery. Carbon emission is quite high and mpg at 26.4 is quite low which are not good indications for an eco-friendly and cost-effective 4x4.

The Q7 is relatively expensive as an entry level vehicle. Car options are also expensive. Fuelled by unleaded petrol this 3.0 litre Q7 is not really frugal based on its mpg. It performs averagely but in truth is not a good investment as it cost some money to run it and depreciates fast. A better option in this class is the Audi Q7 3.0TDI Quattro. This 3.0 litre turbo-diesel is more economical with its 31.7 mpg.