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2007 Audi Q7 Full Review
Date Published: 5/08/08
Also in the 2007 Audi Q7 Review:
5. 
Audi Q7 Photos

6. 
Audi Q7 Full Review

7. 
All Audi Q7s

8. 
All Audis


2007 Audi Q7 Review
Audi's first SUV is loosely based on the Touareg from parent-company Volkswagen. Q7 differs from the VW in styling, equipment, and price. It's also larger and seats up to seven vs. Touareg's five. Q7 comes as the 3.6 model with a 280-hp V6 and as the 4.2 with a 350-hp V8. Both have a 6-speed automatic transmission and Audi's quattro all-wheel drive without low-range gearing. ABS and traction/antiskid control with rollover sensors are standard. So are front side airbags and curtain side airbags for all seating rows. Second-row side airbags are optional, as are 20-inch tires and a driver-adjustable suspension with height control. Q7s come with Audi's MMI (Multi Media Interface). It uses a dashboard screen and a console knob and switches to set audio, navigation, suspension, and many other functions. Among available features are a voice-activated navigation system with rearview camera, rear obstacle detection, keyless entry and starting, and a three-panel sunroof. Also available is Audi's Side Assist sensor system that uses flashing lights in the side mirrors to warn of vehicles in blind spots.
Competition
Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Typically based on mainstream Large SUVs, Premium Large SUVs are super-sized luxury liners. All are powerful, pricey, and extremely thirsty at the pump.

Our Best Buy is the Cadillac Escalade. Our Recommended picks are the Audi Q7 and Mercedes-Benz GL-Class.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Audi Q7, Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, and Mercedes-Benz GL-Class.
News
Q7 should see no major design changes for a while yet, but Audi has confirmed an available diesel V6 for the second half of calendar 2008. Audi isn't talking power and torque yet, but expects the new 3.0-liter turbocharged "oil burner" V6 will cost $3000-$4000 extra.

Audi says it's working on a gasoline/electric Q7, even though it's not enthusiastic about hybrid power. In light of that, we wouldn't expect this Q7 option to materialize for another three or four years.

But Audi is very enthusiastic about the Q5, a smaller SUV reportedly due in the U.S. for 2009. Said to use components from Audi's next-generation A4 and A6 passenger cars, the Q5 should offer a 3.6-liter gasoline V6 and an optional 4.2 V8, though a base 2.0 turbocharged four is possible. Transmission choices are less clear, but could involve a CVT with seven fixed "speeds," a conventional automatic, a 6-speed manual, or the company's S-Tronic automated 6-speed manual. Q5 will target the BMW X3 and Mercedes' upcoming GLK-class SUV. There's talk that Porsche will offer its own version of the Q5, but probably not before model-year 2011.
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2007 Audi Q7 Road Test
Pros Cons
Refinement Fuel economy
Ride/handling Rear visibility
Build quality 3rd-row entry/exit
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration

3.6 Premium w/air susp., 20-in. whls. 4.2 Premium w/S line pkg., air susp. Class Average
5 6 5.4

The 3.6s are pleasantly peppy in around-town driving, cruise with ease, but need deep stab of throttle for decent passing power at highway speeds. Audi lists 8.2 sec 0-60 mph. The 4.2s have slight delay in response from a rolling stop, but are strong enough otherwise to justify Audi's 7.0 sec 0-60-mph claim. On both, transmission is velvety, alert, enhanced by convenient steering wheel shift paddles in sporty S line package. Maximum towing capacity 6600 lb.
Fuel Economy

3.6 Premium w/air susp., 20-in. whls. 4.2 Premium w/S line pkg., air susp. Class Average
4 3 2.5

Extended use 3.6 averaging 17.1 mpg over 6371 miles. Test 4.2 Premium averaged 12.8 mpg. Audi recommends premium-grade fuel for both engines.
Ride Quality

3.6 Premium w/air susp., 20-in. whls. 4.2 Premium w/S line pkg., air susp. Class Average
7 7 6.6

Q7s with driver-adjustable air suspension and 20-inch tires only models made available for test so far. Best results come from leaving air suspension in "automatic" mode, where it quells pitch and float on wavy surfaces and smothers most bumps with little thumping.
Steering/Handling/Braking

3.6 Premium w/air susp., 20-in. whls. 4.2 Premium w/S line pkg., air susp. Class Average
6 6 4

More agile and carlike than most large SUVs. Still, elevated stance, high weight demand slowing for tight corners despite modest body lean vs. others in class. Rock-solid straightline tracking. Steering firm, slop-free at highway speeds, and usefully light for parking, but some testers say turning circle is too wide. Braking swift, smooth, undramatic.
Quietness

3.6 Premium w/air susp., 20-in. whls. 4.2 Premium w/S line pkg., air susp. Class Average
7 7 6.7

Both engines make classy full-throttle growl, a subdued burble otherwise. Moderate wind rustle evident by 70 mph. Available 20-inch tires generate audible coarse-surface thrum.
Controls

3.6 Premium w/air susp., 20-in. whls. 4.2 Premium w/S line pkg., air susp. Class Average
8 8 6

Dashboard, center console rife with buttons, switches, despite aim of MMI system to reduce such clutter. System thoughtfully leaves routine climate adjustments to separate control, but absorbs most audio functions, rendering many distracting and time consuming. Interacting with MMI for navigation and vehicle-system settings also takes time. First-rate finish and furnishings help justify luxury-level pricing.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

3.6 Premium w/air susp., 20-in. whls. 4.2 Premium w/S line pkg., air susp. Class Average
8 8 8.3

Fine leg room, but some taller testers say head space just adequate. Firm seats are long-haul comfortable, have multitude of adjustments. Power-adjustable pedals unavailable, but a tilt/telescope steering column is standard. Sunroof's power interior shade is mesh, not opaque, so some sunlight will always get through. Roofline, thick pillars impede view to some corners and dead-astern, though optional rearview camera compensates. Step-in a bit high, but manageable.
Room/Comfort (rear)

3.6 Premium w/air susp., 20-in. whls. 4.2 Premium w/S line pkg., air susp. Class Average
6 6 7.1

Same slightly steep step-in, but wide doors give easy access to 2nd row's ample leg space and OK head room. Outboard sections of firm 40/20/40 split bench slide fore/aft to favor passenger or cargo space, but seat itself a tad cramped for three adults. Twin bucket seats are optional. Access to 50/50 split 3rd-row bench a squeeze even for kids, as is space there.
Cargo Room

3.6 Premium w/air susp., 20-in. whls. 4.2 Premium w/S line pkg., air susp. Class Average
7 7 7.3

Audi lists 11 cu ft behind 3rd-row seat, 42 with it stowed, 72.5 with all rear seats down. Last figure is mediocre for this class, explained by high cargo floor, low roofline. Still, load floor flat with any seats folded, and headrests don't need removing. Erecting folded 3rd-row seats demands a long stretch from the tail or rear side doors. Plentiful cabin storage for cups, bottles, bric-a-brac.
Value within Class

3.6 Premium w/air susp., 20-in. whls. 4.2 Premium w/S line pkg., air susp. Class Average
7 7 5.5

Recognizing that vehicles in this class are more about coddling occupants than carrying cargo and need to make a style statement in the process, the Q7 fits the premium-large-SUV bill. The Q7's 3rd-row room, comfort, and access is hostile to adults, and the 4.2 V8's fuel economy is frightful. But Q7 earns our Recommended nod for mechanical finesse and terrific all-weather road manners. Audi design and workmanship also appeal.
Total Score

3.6 Premium w/air susp., 20-in. whls. 4.2 Premium w/S line pkg., air susp. Class Average
65 65 59.4
Scores for all Premium Large Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score
42
Average Score
59
High Score
70
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2007 Audi Q7 Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 05/04/2007
Trim Name Retail Price Dealer Invoice Destination Charge
3.6 quattro 4-door wagon $39,900 $36,937 $775
3.6 quattro Premium 4-door wagon $45,900 $42,397 $775
4.2 quattro 4-door wagon $49,900 $46,037 $775
4.2 quattro Premium 4-door wagon $59,900 $55,137 $775
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker. Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options. The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
3.6 quattro
Powertrain
3.6-liter V6 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, all-wheel drive, traction control, front/rear/center limited-slip differentials.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags w/rollover deployment, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system w/rollover sensors, hill descent control, tire-pressure monitor, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning w/dual-zone automatic climate controls, power steering, tilt/telescope leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, 12-way power driver seat w/lumbar adjustment, center console, cupholders, 2nd-row split folding seat, power mirrors w/turn signals, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player, digital clock, tachometer, cooled glovebox, illuminated visor mirrors, rain-sensing wipers w/heated nozzles, rear defogger, rear wiper, automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, front and rear fog lights, roof rails, 235/60HR18 tires, alloy wheels.
3.6 quattro Premium adds to 3.6 quattro:
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather upholstery, heated front seats, 8-way power passenger seat w/lumbar adjustment, wood interior trim, Bose AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Rear privacy glass, bi-xenon headlights.
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
255/55HR18 tires.
4.2 quattro adds to 3.6 quattro Premium:
Powertrain
4.2-liter V8 engine.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Power tilt/telescope steering wheel, 12-way power passenger seat w/lumbar adjustment, memory system (driver seat, mirrors, steering wheel), 3rd-row split folding seat, wireless cell phone link, automatic day/night power mirrors, trip computer, outside-temperature indicator, universal garage door opener, side and rear sunshades, power liftgate, cargo cover.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Steering-linked adaptive bi-xenon headlights .
4.2 quattro Premium adds to 4.2 quattro:
Safety
Rear-obstacle-detection system.
Comfort and Convenience Features
4-zone automatic climate controls, power sunroof, navigation system w/voice recognition, rearview camera, heated 2nd-row seats, heated steering wheel, 2nd-row captain chairs, keyless access and starting, remote engine start, satellite radio.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Headlight washers, 265/50HR19 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages
Retail Price
Invoice Price
Comfort Pkg.
3.6
$2,000
$1,820
Leather upholstery, heated front seats, power passenger seat, aluminum interior trim, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, rear privacy glass.
Convenience Pkg.
3.6 Premium
$1,200
$1,092
Driver-seat memory, automatic day/night outside mirrors, universal garage door opener, power liftgate, steering-linked adaptive bi-xenon headlights.
Infotainment Pkg.
3.6 Premium
$2,800
$2,548
Navigation system, satellite radio, wireless cell phone connection.
Technology Pkg.
3.6 Premium, 4.2
$2,400
$2,184
Rear-obstacle-detection system, blind-spot alert, keyless access and starting, voice recognition, rearview camera. 3.6 Premium requires Infotainment Pkg.
S line Sport Pkg.
3.6 Premium, 4.2
$2,950
$2,685
4.2 Premium
$2,150
$1,957
Steering wheel shift paddles, aluminum interior trim, unique interior and exterior trim, headlight washers, 275/45R20 tires. Deletes 4.2 Premium heated steering wheel.
Cold Weather Pkg.
4.2
$850
$774
Heated 2nd-row seats, heated steering wheel. NA w/S line Sport Pkg., wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Off-Road Style Pkg.
3.6 Premium, 4.2
$2,400
$2,184
Skid plates, lower door trim.
Towing Pkg.
3.6 Premium, 4.2, 4.2 Premium
$550
$501
Power-retractable trailer hitch.
Safety
Rear side airbags
3.6 quattro, 3.6 quattro Premium, 4.2 quattro, 4.2 quattro Premium
$350
$319
Blind-spot alert
3.6 Premium, 4.2, 4.2 Premium
$500
$455
Rear-obstacle-detection system
3.6 Premium
$800
$728
Includes rearview camera.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Navigation system
4.2
$1,800
$1,638
Adaptive cruise control
3.6 Premium, 4.2, 4.2 Premium
$2,100
$1,911
Power sunroof
3.6, 3.6 Premium, 4.2
$1,850
$1,684
4-zone automatic climate controls
3.6 Premium, 4.2
$950
$865
AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer
3.6
$350
$319
Satellite radio
3.6 Premium, 4.2
$550
$501
3.6
$750
$683
iPod connection
3.6 Premium, 4.2, 4.2 Premium
$290
$212
Wireless cell phone link
3.6 Premium
$500
$455
Wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel
3.6 quattro Premium, 4.2 quattro, 4.2 quattro Premium
$690
$628
Includes shift paddles. NA w/S line Sport Pkg., Cold Weather Pkg., 3.6.
Upgraded leather upholstery
3.6 Premium, 4.2
$1,000
$910
Std. 4.2 Premium.
Alcantara headliner
4.2, 4.2 Premium
$1,500
$1,365
Heated 2nd-row seats
4.2
$600
$546
Requires S line Sport Pkg.
2nd-row captain chairs
4.2
$1,200
$1,092
6-passenger seating
3.6 Premium
$1,890
$1,720
2nd-row captain chairs, 3rd-row split folding seat.
2nd-row split folding seat
4.2 Premium
$0
$0
3rd-row split folding seat
3.6, 3.6 Premium
$690
$628
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Special paint
3.6 quattro, 3.6 quattro Premium, 4.2 quattro, 4.2 quattro Premium
$750
$683
2-tone paint
3.6 Premium
$500
$455
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires
Adaptive air suspension
3.6 Premium, 4.2, 4.2 Premium
$2,600
$2,366
Chrome alloy wheels
4.2
$2,400
$2,184
4.2 Premium
$1,600
$1,456
Includes 275/45R20 tires.
255/55HR18 tires
3.6
$875
$796
265/50R19 tires
3.6 Premium, 4.2
$800
$728
275/45R20 tires
3.6 Premium, 4.2
$1,600
$1,456
4.2 Premium
$800
$728
275/45R20 performance tires
3.6 Premium, 4.2
$1,600
$1,456
4.2 Premium
$800
$728
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2007 Audi Q7 Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
Specification Audi Q7 4-door wagon
Wheelbase, in. 118.2
Overall Length, in. 200.2
Overall Width, in. 78.1
Overall Height, in. 68.4
Curb Weight, lbs. 5015
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. 72.5
Standard Payload, lbs. --
Fuel Capacity, gals. 26.4
Seating Capacity 7
Front Head Room, in. 39.5
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 41.3
Rear Head Room, in. 39.0
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 37.1
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
  dohc V6 dohc V8
Size, liters/cu. in. 3.6 /220 4.2 /254
Horsepower @ rpm. 280 @ 6200 350 @ 6800
Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. 266 @ 2750 325 @ 3500
Availability Standard Standard
EPA City / highway mpg
   
6-speed automatic 16/20 14/19
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft; dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders; V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Test Audi Q7 4-door wagon
Front Impact, Driver 5
Front Impact, Passenger 5
Rollover Resistance 4
Side Impact, Driver 5
Side Impact, Rear Passenger 5
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
Class Years/Miles Comments
Powertrain None/-- --
Bumper-to-bumper 4/50,000 --
Corrosion 12/unlimited --
Free roadside assistance 4/50,000 --
Free scheduled maintenance None/-- --
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive. There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for 2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in: Germany
Drivewheels: all-wheel drive

Tester's Comments
Vehicle Evaluated:  2007 Audi Q7
Trim Level:  3.6 quattro
Arrival Date:  07/28/2006
Engine:  dohc V8
Bodystyle:  4-door wagon
Transmission:  6-speed automatic
4WD/AWD:  Yes
Base Price:  $49,900
Price as Tested:  $64,520
Mileage at Beginning of Test:  5646
Mileage at End of Test:  5981
Total Measured Miles: 
Total Fuel Used:  26.012 gals.
 

Major Options:  Quartz Gray Metallic, Black Interior, 6-Speed Automatic Trans. W/ Tiptronic(R), Adaptive Air Suspension, Technology Package (rear view camera with rear Parktronic(R), Audi side assist, advanced key, voice recognition), Panorama Sunroof, Audi Navigation System, 20-in. 5-twin Spoke Cast Alloy Wheels (all season tires), 4-Zone Climate Control, Cold Weather Package (heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel), Towing Package, Sirius Satellite Radio, Front Plate Filler Panel, Leather Seating Surfaces

Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy:  12.88 mpg (what's this?)

Problems During Test: None


From The Back Seat
Rick Cotta On purely practical grounds, it's hard to justify the Q7's lofty price. Any number of less-expensive SUVs offer similar or better performance and accommodations, and without the complexity and aggravation of the MMI control system. Some might be lured by the Audi name and the Q7's admitted panache, but the sum of its qualities falls short in a value equation.

Tom Appel Yet another big SUV that puts style before function. Q7 is a really nice ride, but what it provides most people that the excellent A6 would not, baffles me. If you need a serious tow vehicle, this isn't it. Mercedes' more frugal R-Class makes for a better people mover, as do any number of sedans that will haul a small family just fine.

Tom Appel Yet another big SUV that puts style before function. Q7 is a really nice ride, but what it provides most people that the excellent A6 would not, baffles me. If you need a serious tow vehicle, this isn't it. Mercedes' more frugal R-Class makes for a better people mover, as do any number of sedans that will haul a small family just fine.

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Also in the 2007 Audi Q7 Review:
5. 
Audi Q7 Photos

6. 
Audi Q7 Full Review

7. 
All Audi Q7s

8. 
All Audis


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