The 2012 Audi Q7 is regarded as one of the best midsize luxury SUVs in the market. With its gorgeous styling, powerful engines, upscale interior, and smooth ride, the new Q7 certainly has an audience.
Although there are things that you cannot find in the Q7, such as the space-generous third row, it still remains one of the best options when it comes to cars for families.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: SUV | Base Price: $46,250.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 26.4 gallons (100L) | MPG: 16 city / 22 hwy |
| Length: 200.3 in. (508.9 cm) | Wheel Base: 118.2 in. (300.2 cm) |
| Height: 68.4 in. (173.7 cm) | Width: 85.7 in. (217.7 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 5291 lbs (2355 kg) | Ground Clearance: 9.4 in. (24 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 42 cu ft(behind 2nd row) | Maximum Seating: 7 people |
| Engine: 3.0L Supercharged DOHC V6 | Compression Ratio: 10.5: 1 |
| Horsepower: 280 HP | Max RPM: 4920 RPM |
| Torque: 295 lb-ft @ 2250 rpm | Transmission: 8-Speed Tiptronic Automatic |
| 0-60 mph: 7.7 seconds | Maximum Speed: 130 mph (209 km/h) |
| 1/4 Mile: NA | Max Towing Capacity: 5500 lbs (2495 kgs) |
| Option:Premium Plus | MSRP: $52,550; MPG: 16 city / 22 hwy |
| Option:Prestige Supercharged V6 | MSRP: $59,950; MPG: 16 city / 22 hwy |
Engine
There are two engines available for the Q7. First is the supercharged V6 3.0 liter engine that delivers 280 horsepower and 295 lbs/ft of torque for the base model. This is the same engine under the hood of the S Line models, only with some electronic tweaks. As a result, the supercharged V6 3.0 liter engine gains a boost, putting out 333 horsepower and 325 lbs/ft of torque. The second engine is the turbocharged 3.0 V6 that makes 225 horsepower and an enormous 406 lbs/ft of torque.
Performance
Definitely, the engines of the new Q7 bring adequate muscle for the family’s needs. The gas and the diesel engine might be different but they give the same value that is further reinforced by its frugality.
Fuel economy ratings for the Q7 are pleasing for its class. However, the Q7 is not the most nimble vehicle that you will find. That is primarily because of it size, weight and high center of gravity. Nevertheless, it handles better than some of its competitors.
Exterior
The exterior styling of the Q7 suggests that the SUV is indeed muscular. By its looks, you can expect a strong performance. The edges on its side are neat and the curves are kept minimal (following the shape of the wheels). The front grille is larger and wider but the headlights are sharper. Overall, the Q7 exudes a beefy yet polished look.
Interior
However, not many car shoppers are happy about the interior of the Q7. Although it is luxurious, stylish and made of the finest materials, it is not generous in space. The cabin of the Q7 is not as large as it looks from the outside.
There is adequate legroom, headroom and support from the first and second rows. Adults may find the third row cramped but as long as you put your children in it, there would be no problem. Another issue about the interior is the cumbersome multimedia interface.
Safety
The Insurance Institute for highway safety gives the Q7 a “good” score in rear, side and frontal tests. But since the roof strength tests are yet to be conducted, the overall score for the Audi Q7 is yet to be revealed. The federal government gave it, on the other hand, 4 out of 5 stars in rollover tests.
Reliability
The Audi Q7 comes with the standard 4-year warranty and 24 hour road assistance that lasts for four years. The first scheduled service after one year is free of charge. The reliability for Audi Q7 is average in its class.
Pros
The Audi Q7 is stylish and luxurious. You can expect only the finest materials inside the Q7 cabin. It handles well for a midsize SUV and it is more fuel efficient than some of its counterparts. The Q7 looks good and powerful. It drives smooth most of the time, adding to the comfort that the Q7 provides.
Cons
The interior features of the Q7 are cumbersome. Another complaint is that the third row seems to be designed only for children.
The 2012 Audi Q7 is a capable and luxurious SUV, making it ideal for parents who spend most weekends driving with the family.
Competition
There are a number of SUVs that vie for the same attention as the Q7, these are the BMW X5 (MSRP $47,500; 16 city / 23 hwy), the LR4 by Land Rover (MSRP $48,900; 12 city / 17 hwy), and the steeply priced Lexus GS460 (MSRP $53,445; 15 city / 22 hwy).
Overall Rating
77 out of 100
What others say:
“With two or three rows of seats, the Audi Q7 rewards those who can afford it with spacious, adult-sized accommodations in the first two rows of seats.”Car Connection
“Q7 is more agile and car-like 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. The steering is firm and slop-free at highway speeds and usefully light for parking.”Consumer Guide
“Audi’s luxury SUV is roomy and nicely finished inside. A supercharged V6 replaces both the V8 and V6 engines, and an eight-speed automatic is standard. Handling is fairly nimble but the Q7 doesn’t shine at its limits.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports
“The Audi Q7 received some very welcome engine upgrades for the 2011 model year – the 3.0-liter supercharged V6 gasoline engine remains well-received and the 3.0-liter V6 TDI turbodiesel delivers both ample torque and welcome fuel economy – and those two terrific engines continue for the 2012 Audi Q7.”KBB
“Despite its large size, the 2012 Audi Q7 is actually short on interior space when compared to the competition. It is well crafted, though, and a superior long-distance road tripper, at least for passengers in the first two rows.”Edmunds
