Each week, auto enthusiasts Kev and Zack put one vehicle through the rigors of their everyday lives. Find out how the Audi Q7 measures up.
First Impressions
Zack
While most other premium SUV manufacturers are on to their second generation of vehicles (like the BMW X5, Mercedes ML, Acura MDX, Porsche Cayenne and VW Touareg), Audi brings us its very first SUV.
Kev
I have had the opportunity to drive quite a few SUVs this year, most retailing for less than this Q7. I have to question whether there is room in the marketplace for yet another expensive SUV. Time will tell, but at least Audi has had time to study the competition, learn what works and incorporate many of the best ideas from the industry into their truck.
Exterior
Zack
Styling counts for a lot in the auto industry and the Audi Q7 takes aggressive styling to a new level. The front looks like a caricature of an angry pit bull. The Audi signature grill is massive, running from the hood all the way down to the lower-chin spoiler accented by a few pieces of chrome trim and the four Audi rings.
Kev
Did we mention that this Q7 is big? It is wider, longer and taller than the Volkswagen Touareg, with large rear doors that need to be opened with care in tight parking spots. The back of the Q7, by contrast, is elegant with flush-mounted tail lights and flowing curves.
There are two Q7's to choose from, the 3.6-litre V6 running on 18-inch wheels and the 4.2-litre V8 sporting 20-inch wheels. The 4.2 also receives painted lower-body panels instead of basic black trim.
Interior
Zack
The Q7 has three rows of seats with spots for seven people. When the third row is in use, the cargo area behind is small. Drop the third row into the floor and the cargo area is bigger but the opening isn't as big as I was expecting, plus the load height is high off the ground.
Second-row passenger can slide their seats forward and back to extend the amount of leg room third-row passengers have, but even with the seats extended all the way the third row is cramped.
Kev
The Q7 driver's cockpit is almost identical to the Audi A6 dashboard, which is a good thing. No, make that a great thing. I'm a fan of the easy to read and use computer interface system, the large gauges behind the steering wheel and first-class fit and materials. The environment is rich and elegant with touches of wood and chrome accents and quality textures; this Q7 says you've spent a lot of money!
Zack
I've only driven the Q7 equipped with the 4.2-litre V8 and optional air-ride suspension. This engine puts out 350 horsepower compared to 280 in the V6 model. I can only imagine how pokey the V6 must feel because the V8 didn't really excite me that much.
Kev
he six-speed tiptronic gearbox isn't as precise as, say, the BMW X5 automatic, but the driver can change gears manually for quicker shifts. Throwing this big rig into a corner lets the driver know, in a hurry, that this isn't a Porsche Cayenne. No, the air ride suspension and size of the Q7 limit the fun the driver can have in the corners. This is all about comfort and cruising. The benefit of the air suspension is that it can be raised to gain ground clearance for off-road manoeuvres or plowing through snow. If I were ordering a Q7, I'd leave this option off.
This Car Is Right For...
Zack
The luxury interior and comfortable ride will appeal to many potential buyers in the luxury SUV market, but the overly masculine styling might not appeal to many women.
Kev
I would suggest that this truck in all its masculine glory is targeted at men who appreciate gadgetry and technology.
Bottom Line
Zack
The Audi Q7 was late to the dance but it offers the best interior in this class, seating for seven and a look that won't soon be forgotten.
Kev
High gas prices don't affect the high end of the auto market to the same extent as less expensive vehicles, but it is still is a consideration. Introducing such a big vehicle now might have been bad timing and coming out with an SUV so late might secure the Q7 as an also-ran.
Vehicle Specifications
Price Range (estimated MSRP): $55,000 - $95,000
Engine (diesel): 230 horsepower, 369 lb-ft of torque, 3.0L, DOHC, 24-valve V6 turbodiesel
Engine (gas): 345 horsepower, 325 lb-ft of torque, 4.2L, DOHC, 32-valve V8 direct injection
Transmission: 6-speed automatic with manual mode
