2009 Audi Q7

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The Q7 comes with two different engines in up to four different trims. Models with the 3.6 designation come with a 280-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 engine, while 4.2 models come with a 350-horsepower, 4.2-liter V-8. Both come with a six-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic manual control, and the quattro all-wheel drive is standard across the model line.

New late in the model year is a 3.0-liter turbodiesel (TDI) V-6 engine, makes 221 horsepower and a noteworthy 406 lb-ft of torque. The engine uses what Audi terms an ultra-low emissions system, to meet the requirements for sale in all 50 states. The system requires the periodic addition of AdBlue, a urea solution, at major maintenance intervals. The diesel engine is clean-burning at the tailpipe and much quieter than the diesels of the past; it's responsive too, capable of launching the Q7 to 60 mph in about 8.5 seconds. But the strongest argument for the diesel is that it achieves 25 mpg or better on the highway.

Despite a hefty curb weight of well over 5,000 pounds, a well-tuned four-wheel independent suspension, precise steering and an all-wheel drive system that aids stability on road helps the Q7 have the poise of a smaller car around corners.

At the same time, the Q7 doesn't completely give up on the ruggedness expected in an SUV. With an air suspension that can raise the Q7's ride height when needed, it can conquer all but the toughest trail driving. The electronic stability control has an off-road mode to aid traction, along with hill descent assist for maintaining stability on steep, slippery downslopes.

The Q7 offers seating for up to seven in three rows, except for the base 3.6 model, which omits the third row and seats five. The second row slides fore and aft four inches, while the third row can fold flat to expand cargo space when not in use.

Safety features are abundant in the Q7. Front side airbags and side-curtain airbags covering all three rows are standard, along with stability control and anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution.

The Q7 3.6 comes in base, Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige models, while the Q7 4.2 only comes in top-of-the-line Prestige trim. The 3.0 TDI will come in Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige models. Base models come very well equipped, including keyless entry, cruise control, automatic climate control, and a six-speaker premium sound system. Top Prestige models get heated front and rear seats, an 8-inch color display, a full-length center console, a Bluetooth hands-free interface, the Audi side assist system, a parking assist system, DVD-based navigation, Bose premium sound and wood and aluminum trim.

Even on top Prestige models, the options list is extensive, including a panorama sunroof, a towing package, four-zone climate control and a choice of flashier 20- and 21-inch wheel designs. An S Line performance package adds larger wheels, headlamp washers, and other sporty appearance extras.
The Q7 gets a number of changes to its standard and optional equipment lists for 2009, including upgraded audio and standard Sirius Satellite Radio on the base 3.6 model and expanded availability of the side assist system. The MMI Advanced interface is now offered on the base 3.6 model, and a new 19-inch wheel design joins the lineup. The adaptive lighting system has been discontinued.

Otherwise, the big news for 2009 is a new diesel version of the Q7. The Q7 3.0 TDI is set to debut in Spring 2009, late in the model year.
Excellent ride; good handling; interior luxury and comfort; technology features; road-friendly all-wheel drive; fuel economy of 3.0 TDI model
The Q7 stands out for its well-proportioned design and understated, attractive styling that's a departure from other SUVs. Three rows of seating also make it appealing to families, and front seating is among the best of any vehicle. The highly anticipated 3.0 TDI model this year will address one of the inadequacies of the 3.6 and 4.2 models-fuel economy. With a highway rating of 25 mpg or better, the Q7 TDI is an excellent highway vehicle as well.