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2008 Audi Q7 Full Review
Date Published: 4/30/08
Also in the 2008 Audi Q7 Review:
2008 Audi Q7 Review
The 2008 Audi Q7 is largely unchanged. 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. Maximum towing capacity is 6600 lb. Available safety equipment includes ABS, traction control, an antiskid system, front side airbags, second-row side airbags, and curtain side airbags. A driver-adjustable suspension with height control is optional on the 4.2 model. 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, 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 Lexus LX 570 and Toyota Land Cruiser.
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 Lexus LX 570 and Toyota Land Cruiser.
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.
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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2008 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
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 sec 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 sec 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.
| 3.6 Premium | 4.2 Premium S line, air suspension | Class Average |
| 5 | 6 | 5.8 |
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 sec 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 sec 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
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.
| 3.6 Premium | 4.2 Premium S line, air suspension | Class Average |
| 4 | 1 | 2.2 |
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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
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.
| 3.6 Premium | 4.2 Premium S line, air suspension | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6 |
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
First-rate finish and furnishings help justify luxury-level pricing.
| 3.6 Premium | 4.2 Premium S line, air suspension | Class Average |
| 8 | 8 | 7.6 |
First-rate finish and furnishings help justify luxury-level pricing.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
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.
| 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)
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.
| 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
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.
| 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
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.
| 3.6 Premium | 4.2 Premium S line, air suspension | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 5.4 |
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 | 68.6 |
Scores for all Premium Large Sport-utility Vehicles
| Low Score | 55 | |
| Average Score | 68 | |
| High Score | 80 |
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2008 Audi Q7 Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 04/29/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
|
|
|||
| 3.6 quattro 4-door wagon | $42,500 | $39,526 | $775 |
|
|
|||
| 3.6 quattro Premium 4-door wagon | $48,350 | $44,965 | $775 |
|
|
|||
| 4.2 quattro Premium 4-door wagon | $58,600 | $54,497 | $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, tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, cruise control, leather upholstery, front bucket seats, 12-way power front seats w/lumbar adjustment, center console, 2nd-row split folding seat, aluminum interior trim, heated power mirrors w/turn signals and passenger-side tilt-down back-up aid, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, tachometer, cooled glovebox, illuminated visor mirrors, automatic day/night rearview mirror, rain-sensing wipers w/heated nozzles, cargo cover, rear defogger, rear wiper, automatic headlights, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, rear privacy glass, front and rear fog lights, roof rails, 255/55R18 tires, alloy wheels.
3.6 quattro Premium adds to 3.6 quattro:
Safety
Front- and rear-obstacle-detection system.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Heated front seats, 3rd-row split folding rear seat, wood interior trim, satellite radio, rearview camera, trip computer, outside-temperature indicator, compass, universal garage door opener.
4.2 quattro Premium adds to 3.6 quattro Premium:
Powertrain
4.2-liter V8 engine.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Power tilt/telescopic steering wheel, 4-zone automatic climate controls, navigation system w/voice recognition, memory system (driver seat, mirrors), keyless access and starting, remote engine start, Bose sound system, power liftgate.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Steering-linked adaptive bi-xenon headlights, 275/45R20 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
|
Comfort Pkg.
|
||
|
3.6
|
$2,900
|
$2,698
|
|
Heated front seats, 3rd-row split folding seat, satellite radio, upgraded sound system, compass, power liftgate.
|
||
|
Convenience Pkg.
|
||
|
3.6 Premium
|
$1,950
|
$1,813
|
|
Driver-seat memory, power-folding and automatic day/night outside mirrors, Bose sound system, steering-linked adaptive bi-xenon headlights.
|
||
|
Technology Pkg.
|
||
|
3.6 Premium
|
$4,300
|
$4,001
|
|
4.2
|
$1,750
|
$1,628
|
|
Blind-spot alert, lane-departure warning, navigation system (3.6 Premium), voice recognition, keyless access and starting (3.6 Premium). 3.6 Premium requires Convenience Pkg. NA w/wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel.
|
||
|
S line Pkg.
|
||
|
3.6 Premium
|
$2,950
|
$2,743
|
|
4.2
|
$2,000
|
$1,860
|
|
Steering wheel shift paddles, aluminum interior trim, unique interior and exterior trim, headlight washers, 275/45R20 tires.
|
||
|
S line Pkg. w/21-inch wheels
|
||
|
4.2
|
$2,800
|
$2,605
|
|
3.6 Premium
|
$3,750
|
$3,488
|
|
S line Pkg. plus 295/35R21 tires.
|
||
|
Cold Weather Pkg.
|
||
|
3.6 Premium, 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
|
$2,233
|
|
Skid plates, lower door trim. NA w/S line Pkg.
|
||
|
Towing Pkg.
|
||
|
3.6 quattro, 3.6 quattro Premium, 4.2 quattro Premium
|
$550
|
$512
|
|
Heavy-duty cooling, trailer hitch. NA w/running boards.
|
||
|
|
||
Safety |
||
|
Rear side airbags
|
||
|
3.6 quattro, 3.6 quattro Premium, 4.2 quattro Premium
|
$350
|
$325
|
|
|
||
Comfort and Convenience Features |
||
|
Navigation system
|
||
|
3.6 Premium
|
$1,800
|
$1,675
|
|
Adaptive cruise control
|
||
|
4.2
|
$2,100
|
$1,953
|
|
Power sunroof
|
||
|
3.6 quattro, 3.6 quattro Premium, 4.2 quattro Premium
|
$1,850
|
$1,721
|
|
4-zone automatic climate controls
|
||
|
3.6 Premium
|
$950
|
$883
|
|
Wood/leather-wrapped steering wheel
|
||
|
3.6 Premium, 4.2
|
$600
|
$557
|
|
Includes shift paddles. NA w/S line Sport Pkg., Cold Weather Pkg.
|
||
|
Upgraded leather upholstery
|
||
|
3.6 Premium, 4.2
|
$1,000
|
$930
|
|
NA w/extended leather upholstery.
|
||
|
Extended leather upholstery
|
||
|
3.6 Premium, 4.2
|
$3,500
|
$3,256
|
|
Alcantara headliner
|
||
|
3.6 Premium, 4.2
|
$1,500
|
$1,396
|
|
6-passenger seating
|
||
|
3.6 Premium, 4.2
|
$1,500
|
$1,396
|
|
2nd-row adjustable captain chairs and center console.
|
||
|
|
||
Appearance and Miscellaneous |
||
|
Special paint
|
||
|
3.6 quattro, 3.6 quattro Premium, 4.2 quattro Premium
|
$750
|
$698
|
|
Running boards
|
||
|
3.6 quattro, 3.6 quattro Premium, 4.2 quattro Premium
|
$1,150
|
$1,069
|
|
|
||
Special Purpose, Wheels and Tires |
||
|
Adaptive air suspension
|
||
|
4.2
|
$2,600
|
$2,417
|
|
265/50R19 tires
|
||
|
3.6 Premium
|
$800
|
$745
|
|
4.2
|
$0
|
$0
|
|
275/45R20 tires
|
||
|
3.6 Premium
|
$1,600
|
$1,487
|
|
275/45R20 performance tires
|
||
|
3.6 Premium
|
$2,400
|
$2,233
|
|
4.2
|
$800
|
$745
|
|
|
||
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2008 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 | 14/20 | 12/17 |
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 |
| 4WD Rollover | 4 |
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
| 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
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Also in the 2008 Audi Q7 Review:
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