2011 Audi Q7 7-Seater Review
Price
from: RM550,000
to: RM690,000
Installment
from: RM5,245/mth
to: RM6,581/mth
2011 Audi Q7 7-Seater at a glance
The 2011 Audi Q7 has an inviting, beautifully built cabin, and it handles well too despite its bulk. The questionable looks aside, there is little not to like about the 2011 Audi Q7, which obviously costs a lot to buy and run just like all its direct rivals.
2011 Audi Q7 7-Seater quick specs
| Body Style | SUV |
| Class | Large Luxury Utility |
| Assembled | - |
| Engine Range | - |
| Fuel Options | - |
| Seating Capacity | 7 |
2011 Audi Q7 7-Seater ratings (overall rating : 3.5/5.0)
| Styling | |
| Handling | |
| Comfort | |
| Quality + Reliability | |
| Performance |
| Roominess | |
| Running Costs | |
| Value for Money | |
| Equipment | |
| Environment |
Styling
Sharing roots with the Volkswagen Touareg and Porsche Cayenne means it is unsurprising to see the Audi Q7 the way it is. Then again, it is always going to be an uphill battle when styling such a long and big SUV. Masking its mass was never easy. Indeed, the 2011 Audi Q7 probably looks the best from the front view, away from the rest of the massive body. Inside, the styling and ambience cannot be more different, with a classy and inviting cabin.
Handling
The 2011 Audi Q7 is more an on-road than off-road animal. For a huge SUV, its handling must be considered good. Body control is better than most large SUV except the BMW X5. Thanks to Audi's sophisticated air suspensions, the 2011 Audi Q7 changes direction keenly and resists body roll well through corners. Steering is sharp. Air suspensions overcoming most surfaces easily. Maneuvering this mammoth around city areas is made easier with the many high-tech gadgets onboard.
Comfort
Wind noise is minimal, but some road noise over rougher surfaces can intrude through the wheel arches. Engine note is more entertaining than noise to us. Ride at low speeds can be unsettled, but high speed ride is good. Adjustments are plentiful for drivers, who can enjoy long-distance journeys in supportive seats. Dashboard is uncluttered and clean. MMI system, via a single knob, can control most functions on a colour screen.
Quality + Reliability
Audi does not let its reputation of creating quality interiors down with the 2011 Audi Q7's cabin. All materials chosen are of the highest quality, fit-and-finish is once again excellent. All controls operate precisely and slickly. This presents a stark contrast to the Mercedes-Benz M-Class' cabin which is relatively dull and uninspiring. From JD Power customer satisfaction surveys, Audi's reliability record needs improving.
Performance
Both 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel and 4.2-litre V8 petrol engines put out strong performances. The petrol V8 is no doubt the star performer. But the high costs of buying and maintaining the V8 might be prohibitive. The smart money has to be on the lively diesel V6, which is similarly smooth and equipped with good low-end torque. The six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission shifts smoothly without fuss, while the Quattro four-wheel-drive system is useful for the occasional off-road endeavour.
Roominess
Space is not an issue in this huge SUV. This 2011 Audi Q7 model comes as a seven-seater which means three rows of seats. Passengers in the first two rows get plenty of head- and leg- room, but the third row is cramped and best left for kids or smaller adults. Boot space is 330 litres with the third row up, but increases to 775 litres with the rearmost row collapsed. Families with less members can buy the five-seater Audi Q7 which costs RM 20,000 less for either engine.
Running Costs
Fuel consumption of the 3.0-litre V6 diesel is much more respectable than the exorbitant 4.2-litre V8 petrol. The 2011 Audi Q7's sheer mass means engines have to work hard to move it, consuming more fuel in the process. Servicing and repair costs are likely to be high. With the price tag, insurance is very high. Road tax is expensive at RM 4,682 and RM 7,363.50 for the 3.0-litre and 4.2-litre respectively. Depreciation should be higher than a comparable BMW X5's.
Value for Money
Starting from RM 550,000, the 2011 Audi Q7 is cheaper than its two main rivals, the BMW X5 at RM 568,800 and the Mercedes-Benz M-Class at RM 555,888, while matching the Porsche Cayenne at RM 550,000 and undercutting the Land Rover Range Rover at RM 658,888. Already competent and competitive with its merits, the 2011 Audi Q7, with a pricing advantage, should at least make it onto the shortlist of potential buyers shopping in this high-end SUV segment.
Equipment
Equipments are comprehensive. MMI, adaptive air suspension, bi-xenon headlights, foglights, rain sensor, automatic climate control, 18-inch alloy wheels, leather seats, and rear parking system are standard for 3.0-litre model. The 4.2-litre model comes with gear shift paddles, advanced keyless function, and radio symphony system. Optional package includes BOSE surround sound system, cruise control, and Lane-and-Side assist. Safety kit includes ABS, ESP and six airbags.
Environment
A huge SUV with large engines, not a mid-size SUV, spells disaster for the environment. The 3.0-litre V6 diesel emits 260 g/km of carbon dioxide, while the 4.2-litre V8 petrol emits 309 g/km of greenhouse gas. This is not a car for 'green' people or a car that you will want to park near 'green' activists. Luckily Malaysia does not have many of either?
Live Life Drive Verdict
Inviting cabin
Handles well for its bulk
Unparalleled quality
Controversial styling
High running costs
Expensive relative to key competitors
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