Audi Q7 Review: Elegance and Power in an SUV
Tags:
Audi Q7 Review: Elegance and Power in an SUV
Audi is currently a leader in the luxury sports car market. We had the opportunity to test the Q7 SUV. Personally, I have always believed that Germans should steer clear of producing large SUVs and focus on their luxury vehicles, leaving bigger cars to the Americans and Japanese. Therefore, I was excited to experience the Audi Q7.
Elegance
The model we received was painted in a color called "Ipanema Brown," which appears orange during the day and brown at night, showcasing a high level of sophistication. The large front grille gleamed alongside the daytime running lights. From the side, the vehicle looks longer than it actually is, featuring a skillfully sloped roof and a tailgate that opens and closes automatically.
There is a badge reading “supercharged” on the front side, but we'll discuss that later. The vehicle is equipped with stylish dual exhausts near the rear bumper, complemented by a silver skid plate, all contributing to a very attractive appearance.
Interior
The car is massive, but you will appreciate its size once you sit inside. There is ample legroom for both front and rear passengers. Although there is a third row, it is only suitable for children.
- The comfortable seats come in a brown color that matches the exterior of the car.
- The sound system, developed by Bose, is among the best I've heard in cars.
- The screen's size and design are odd, and the keyhole is large and unattractive.
- The climate control system feels outdated.
The Q7 disappointed us in these aspects.
Power and Control
The Q7 is powered by a 3.0L V6 engine that delivers 333 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, producing 440 Nm of torque.
This allows the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.6 seconds. I must say the car has a split personality. You can drive it smoothly and comfortably, barely hearing the engine with its comfortable suspension for a quiet cruising experience. However, switch to Sport mode and adjust the suspension to Dynamic, and the car lowers itself.
Suddenly, the car becomes a beast that devours corners effortlessly, thanks to the suspension and Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system. This will definitely put a smile on your face.
Practicality
Being an SUV, the Q7 has a large trunk when the third row is folded down, and for even more space, you can fold the second-row seats as well.
One downside I noticed is the lack of a side step for easy entry, which can make it difficult for children. The air suspension is very helpful as it has six height settings:
- Lift: Maximum height, but only works if the speed is below 60 km/h.
- Off-road: The second setting.
- Comfort: Followed by this.
- Auto: In addition to.
- Dynamic: The last setting works only from the rear trunk.
There is a button to lower the car, which helps with loading and unloading items.
Conclusion
With all its stylish features and some drawbacks, I enjoyed the car. It changed my perception of German SUVs, as they combine the best of both worlds. Priced at AED 318,000, it is quite expensive compared to its competitors.