2008 Audi Q7: Road Test
2008 Audi Q7 ▼
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- MSRP: $42,500 -$58,600
- Invoice: $39,526 -$54,497
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Our road test for the 2008 Audi Q7 includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Audi Q7 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Audi Q7, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Audi Q7 help you decide if a 2008 Audi Q7 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 3.6 Premium | 4.2 Premium S line, air suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5.9 |
The 3.6s are pleasantly peppy in around-town driving and cruise with ease but need a deep stab of the throttle for decent passing power at highway speeds, and several testers find the throttle response to be non-linear. Audi lists the 3.6 at 8.2 seconds 0-60 mph. The 4.2s have a slight delay in throttle response from a rolling stop but are strong enough otherwise to justify Audi's 7.0 seconds 0-60-mph claim. On both, the transmission is generally responsive and is enhanced by the convenient steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles in the sporty S line package.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 3.6 Premium | 4.2 Premium S line, air suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 1 | 2.4 |
In Consumer Guide testing, our extended-use 3.6 Premium averaged 17.1 mpg over 12,953 miles. Test 4.2 Premium averaged 12.8 mpg. Audi recommends premium-grade gas for both engines.
RIDE QUALITY
| 3.6 Premium | 4.2 Premium S line, air suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.4 |
In models with the available air suspension, the best results come from leaving it in "comfort" mode, where it quells pitch and float on wavy surfaces and smothers most bumps with little thumping.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 3.6 Premium | 4.2 Premium S line, air suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.2 |
Q7 is more agile and carlike than most large SUVs. Still, its elevated stance and high weight demand slowing for tight corners despite the modest body lean vs. others in this class. There is rock-solid straightline tracking. The steering is firm and slop-free at highway speeds and usefully light for parking, but some testers say turning circle is too wide. Braking is swift and strong, but several testers find them hard to modulate for smooth stops.
QUIETNESS
| 3.6 Premium | 4.2 Premium S line, air suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.8 |
Both engines make a classy full-throttle growl, and a subdued burble otherwise. Moderate wind rustle is evident by 70 mph. The available 20-inch tires generate audible coarse-surface thrum.
CONTROLS
| 3.6 Premium | 4.2 Premium S line, air suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.9 |
The dashboard and center console are populated with numerous buttons and switches, despite the aim of the MMI system to reduce such clutter. The MMI system thoughtfully leaves routine climate adjustments to separate controls, but it absorbs most audio functions, rendering many distracting and time consuming. Interacting with MMI for navigation and vehicle-system settings also takes time.
DETAILS
| 3.6 Premium | 4.2 Premium S line, air suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7.4 |
First-rate finish and furnishings help justify luxury-level pricing.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 3.6 Premium | 4.2 Premium S line, air suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8.6 |
Q7 offers fine legroom, but some taller testers say headroom is just adequate. The firm seats are long-haul comfortable and have a multitude of adjustments. Power-adjustable pedals are unavailable but a tilt and telescopic steering column--power on 4.2--is standard. The sunroof's power interior shade is mesh, not opaque, so some sunlight will always get through. The roofline and thick pillars impede the view to some corners and dead-astern, though the available rearview camera compensates. Step-in is a bit high but remains manageable.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 3.6 Premium | 4.2 Premium S line, air suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 7.1 |
The rear has the same slightly steep step-in, but the wide doors give easy access to the 2nd row's ample leg space and OK headroom. Outboard sections of the firm 40/20/40 split bench slide fore and aft to favor passenger or cargo space, but the seat itself is a tad cramped for three adults. Twin bucket seats are optional. Access to the 50/50 split 3rd-row bench is a squeeze even for kids, as is the space there.
CARGO ROOM
| 3.6 Premium | 4.2 Premium S line, air suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 8.5 |
Audi lists 11 cu ft behind 3rd-row seat, 42 with it stowed, 72.5 with all rear seats down. The last figure is mediocre for this class and is explained by the high cargo floor and low roofline. Still, the load floor is flat with any seats folded, and the headrests don't need removing. Erecting folded 3rd-row seats demands a long stretch from the tail or rear side doors. There is plentiful cabin storage for cups, bottles, and bric-a-brac.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 3.6 Premium | 4.2 Premium S line, air suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.3 |
Recognizing that vehicles in this class are more about coddling occupants than carrying cargo, and that they 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 | 4.2 Premium S line, air suspension | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 73 | 71 | 68.5 |
Total Score: 72
Scores for all Premium Large Sport-utility Vehicles
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