2011 Audi Q7 SUV Review

This is a vehicle that high end customers looking for a luxury SUV will find very appealing. With the first-rate workmanship displayed throughout the exterior and interior of this vehicle, the Audi Q7 for 2011 is a brilliant effort by all means.

The Q7 is available in a number of models. The base model has sporting leather upholstery, 12-waypowered front seats; climate control with dual-zone, powered tailgate, genuine decorated wood inlays and the unique parking system of Audi. An upgrade is available to get to the next model which has Audi’s navigation system that is complete with a full color 7-inch display LCD screen with MMI logic, 14 speaker audio surround system, powered exterior mirrors that fold with LED signals that are integrated into the mirrors, daytime running LED lights  and xenon headlamps. The ultimate in these models adds climate controls with four zones for the driver, and other occupants, ventilated front seats, 20-inch wheels equipped with tires for all seasons, keyless entry that allows the vehicle to be started, locked and unlocked without the use of a key and a steering column that is power adjustable.

The basic Audi Q7 under the hood has a supercharged V6, 3.0 liter producing 280 hp and 266 pound-feet torque. More high-end models come with a V8, 4.2 liter engine producing 350 hp and 325 pound-feet torque. The top speed for the V8 is 130 mph and the V6 hustles from a stop to 60 mph in 7.8 seconds while the V8 takes 6.9 seconds. The vehicle has an automatic 8-speed transmission and is equipped with an all-wheel drive system from Audi. Fuel economy for this SUV’s V6 is rated at 16 mpg for city, 22 mpg for highway and 18 mpg combined while the V8 is rated at 16 mpg for city, 22 mpg for highway with 18 mpg for combined. The fuel tank is able to contain 26.4 gasoline gallons. The Audi Q7 when equipped with the standard hitch can tow 5,500 pounds which is 1,100 pounds less than what can be towed with a trailer hitch system which includes a tow bar.

The interior of the Q7 is reasonably warm with notable technology goodies. The dashboard is made up of burled wood with other high quality materials. The unique Multi-Media interface from Audi gives access to the navigation system, audio systems, climate control. A limitation with the Q7’s dashboard is in its complexity. With time and practice however, one becomes accustomed to it. This is a ‘seven-seater’ SUV but the third row of seats is a bit constricted and preferred for kids rather than adult occupants. Upon folding the 2^nd and 3^rd row seats, the back offers cargo capacity of 88.7 cubic feet.

When comes to handling, the Audi Q7 gives an outstanding drive and grips the pavement well, aided by its air suspension that is adjustable. This helps in the navigation of holes and bumps with elegance and style, keeping its wheels grounded to the road. The vehicle has been disapproved by many due to having a fuel consumption rating that is below average. The same enthusiasts however, laud its superior all-wheel drive system.