Many people have been searching for a luxury midsize SUV, but most brands could not offer the adequate features or top performance that they need. Here in this world, a world-class brand stands out among the rest to deliver models that bear the same meaning with the word “luxury.” This German company has focused all its development energies on making the quintessential sedans that the world requires, but one such model is the 2011 Audi Q7, which differs in a way that it has a class of its own. It is made as a luxury midsize SUV that most people would enjoy. 
Performance
In terms of car performance, the Q7 does well with its new V6 engines and their eight-speed automatic transmission function. This equates to more power and even better fuel consumption despite the vehicles heavy construction.
The Audi Q7 comes in two engines each with two different trims. The first is the 3.0T. The Premium trim has a 3.0L Supercharged V6 engine capable of delivering up to 280 horsepower. It has leather-covered seats that can seat seven people, with heated, 12-way power front seats. It has the company’s signature features like the Audi Parking System, HomeLink remote, music interface with iPod and iPhone compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity for cellular phones, LED taillights, power tailgate and contrast-painted lower valances.
The Premium Plus has all the mentioned features plus the Multi Media Interface Navigation System, a BOSE Surround Sound System, Audi parking system plus, a rearview camera, xenon plus headlights with LED running lights suitable for daytime, driver memory, and panorama sunroof. The Prestige trim has a 3.0L V6 engine capable of a maximum of 333 horsepower, 20-inch wheels for all seasons, 3.0T S line, an advanced key, an adjustable steering column, a Warm Weather Package and well-ventilated front seats. The last engine is the TDI, which makes use of a 3.0 Turbo-charged V6 clean diesel engine that is capable of running at 225 horsepower, also available on the Prestige, Premium Plus and Premium trims.
Exterior & Interior
The exterior is classy and clean, but some people might consider it unappealing for a luxury car. The interior may also seem lackluster for most people because the last row may seem too cramped for normal-sized adults. The design or performance may have its weak points, but the most striking feature of this car is its safety assurance.
Safety
Although it has not yet been crash tested, this model has a lot of safety features, like the standard front passenger and driver seat-mounted side airbags, head curtain airbags for all the three rows of seats, and the ultrasonic parking system. Other optional features are the rear side airbags, a rearview camera, blind spot monitor and adaptive cruise control. The results for warranty information has not been released yet, but the reliability is somewhat expected to be mediocre. It is expected that the car will only come with the four-year or 50000-mile basic warranty, 24-hour roadside assistance for four years, and free 5000-mile or 12-month first scheduled maintenance.
Competition
The Audi Q7 has a steep price, which might lead people to look at alternatives. One candidate is the Lexus RX 350 (MSRP $40,475; 18 city / 25 hwy), which has one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in its class at a lower price, but it does not have a third-row seating. If the user desires an additional row, then the Acura MDX (MSRP $54,455; 16 city / 21 hwy) may be a wise choice. It has a lower price compared to the Q7, but its fuel economy is not as good as the two models.
Pros & Cons
Some may be negatively affected by the high price, tight third row seating or confusing navigation system, but the large cargo room, promising safety assurance and excellent handling makes the 2011 Audi Q7 a worthy luxury SUV contender.
Overall Rating
74 out of 100
What others say:
“The Q7 is no brutish off-roader, nor is it a blingy hip-hop street machine. It’s simply stated, elegant while not looking feminine or masculine.”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.”Consumer Guide
“Gauges are easy to read but the controls are needlessly complex. A central knob surrounded with four selector buttons controls navigation, audio, and other functions.”Consumer Report
“Well-crafted interior; Autobahn-bred high-speed stability; available diesel engine; top safety scores.”Edmunds
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Midsize SUV | Base Price: $46,250.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 26.4 gallons | Miles Per Gallon: 16 city / 22 hwy |
| Length: 200.3 in. (509 cm) | Width: 85.7 in. (217.7 cm) |
| Height: 68.4 in. (173.7 cm) | Curb Weight: 5192 lbs (2355 kg) |
| Wheel Base: 118.2 in. (300 cm) | Ground Clearance: 8.1 in. (20.5 cm) |
| Luggage Capacity: 42 cu ft (behind 2nd row) | Maximum Seating: 7 |
| Engine: 3.0L Supercharged DOHC V6 | Displacement: 182.8 cu in (2995 cc) |
| Horsepower: 272 hp | Max RPM: 4750 rpm |
| Torque: 295 lb-ft @ 2250 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic |
| 0-60 mph: 7.8 seconds | 1/4 Mile: NA |
| Option:3.0 T Premium Plus | MSRP: $52,250; MPG: 16 city / 22 hwy |
| Option:S line® Prestige | MSRP: $59,450; MPG: 16 city / 22 hwy |
| Option:3.0 TDI® Premium | MSRP: $51,450; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy |
| Option:3.0 TDI® Premium Plus | MSRP: $57,450; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy |
| Option:3.0 TDI® Prestige | MSRP: $63,450; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy |
