April 2008

2008 Audi Q7 Sets New Standards of CUV Elegance

The 2008 Audi Q7 will give most upscale homes a run for their luxury.

 

The 2008 Audi Q7 is a “crossover” utility vehicle (CUV) that drives like a luxury sedan and coddles its passengers with comforts and conveniences few other lux-utes can match including a few not found on any other luxury CUV. With all-wheel drive, a choice of powerful V6 and V8 engines and arguably the classiest interior in the segment, the Q7 is queen of the ball.

 

It’s hard to believe, but there are three ascending levels of opulence in the Q7 line. The so-called “base” 3.6 model is impressively equipped, swathed in leather, climate controlled in two zones and includes a six-disc, CD audio system with eight speakers. Select the 3.6 Premium model and the amenities expand to include a backup camera, Bluetooth connectivity and a power tailgate. Go all-out with the 4.2 Premium, and you’ll enjoy more power, voice-command DVD navigation, a Bose surround-sound audio system and super-soft Cricket leather upholstery. Who knew cricket hides were even available! Packages and options include unique items such as second-row captain's chairs and a panoramic sunroof.

 

Introduced for the 2007 model year, the Audi Q7 is the latest interpretation of the luxury CUV. It’s built on the chassis supporting the highly regarded VW Touareg and Porsche Cayenne, but is lengthened sufficiently to offer a comfortable third row of seating. Two engines are available: the 3.6-liter V6 develops 280 hp and 266 lb/ft of torque, and the 4.2-liter V8 offers up 350 hp and 325 lb/ft of torque. Both mills use a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission with manual shift capability. A “Sport” mode can be selected that provides faster shifts and automatically holds gears a bit longer for more responsive performance. All Q7s are equipped with Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system. Fuel economy for the 4.2 is surprisingly favorable at an estimated 17 miles per gallon city and 23 highway, thanks in part to waste-reducing advancements such as fuel stratified injection (FSI) and electronic throttle control (ETC).

 

The Q7 is quite a handsome design with the signature Audi trapezoid grille and swept-back character lines. It looks fast standing still, but where the Q7 really shines is on the pavement. Both engines motivate the Q7 with élan while the optional adjustable air suspension absorbs bumps and potholes with ease. Meanwhile, Audi's all-wheel drive system keeps the wheels firmly glued to the road. Wrapped in luxury, propelled effortlessly, isolated from noise and harshness and cocooned in safety, the Q7 is as close to automotive heaven as a very fortunate few of us will ever get.

 

Inside the Audi Q7, the décor merges high-tech with old-world tradition. The mix of high quality materials and the craftsmanship with which they are installed is breathtaking. Gauges and controls are well thought out and beautifully situated through the cockpit. A single screen with easy-to-understand controls combines audio, navigation and other functions atop the dash.

 

Reviewers report the driver’s position is perfect and the raised seating confident with commanding visibility. The two front seats are supremely comfortable with total power adjustment and heat. Audi says the Q7 can be configured in 28 different passenger/cargo arrangements. With the conventional 40/20/40-split second-row bench seat, the Q7 seats five; add the third-row seat and it'll seat seven. A six-passenger arrangement is standard on the 4.2 Premium with second-row bucket seats separated by a center console and the third-row bench behind it. The second-row seats slide fore and aft four inches, providing the most legroom of any full-size luxury CUV. Both the second and third rows may be folded flat to swallow an impressive 88.7 cubic feet of cargo.

 

The 2008 Audi Q7 3.6 lists for $42,500, a very competitive MSRP, especially when you compare this awesome Audi with its competition. To see, drive and luxuriate in a Q7 can be compared to falling in love. Be ready!


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