Vehicle Type: Large Luxury Crossover
History/Description: Audi’s big luxury ute hit the market for model year 2007, offering six or eight-cylinder power, Quattro AWD, unique looks, and an Audi-built competitor to comparable machinery from Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, Acura, Volvo, BMW and Cadillac. With an eye for unique design, modern interfaces and plenty of selection through numerous powertrain and option packages, the Q7 went on to earn homes in countless Canadian driveways.
Feature content included keyless ignition, oversized sunroofs, automatic climate control, xenon lighting, a powered tailgate and premium BOSE or Bang & Olufsen audio. A heated steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring (dubbed Audi Side Assist) were also available, as was the brand’s cutting edge MMI interface with central command knob. Seating was available for up to 7 occupants.
A new Q7 is launching soon, and the original has moved nicely into used-car territory.
Engines / Trim: Initially, Q7 launched with power from a 4.2L V8 or a 3.6L V6 – both gasoline, with power topping out north of 300 horses. Standard and Premium versions were available with either engine, and Quattro and an automatic transmission were standard. From model year 2009, the 3L TDI V6 joined the powertrain lineup, and from 2011, the 3.6L and 4.2L gasoline engines were replaced by a higher-efficiency 3L supercharged V6, while the TDI engine remained. Note that 3.0 TFSI models are gas powered, and that 3.0 TDI models got the diesel mill.
What Owners Like: Owner reviews typically see the Q7 rated highly in all aspects of confidence during inclement-weather driving, with traction, braking, stability and even the lighting system rated well. Smooth performance and a comfortable ride, as well as a high-quality feel throughout much of the vehicle, were also noted. Favourite features include the powered tailgate, up-level stereo system and heated steering wheel.
What Owners Dislike: Common complaints include a fussy and complicated interface to the MMI system which requires plenty of time to learn, limited third-row space, and high up-front pricing. Owners of older models with the 3.6L or 4.2L engines often complain of excessive fuel consumption.
Here are some owner reviews.
The Test Drive: Start by checking out the Q7’s cruise control system, which could be suffering from a bad brake-light switch or engine sensor-related issue if it fails to engage, or engages, but fails to remain functional.
