Overview:
Audi is not new to Quattro four-wheel drive, their trademark. Quattro is a permanent all-wheel drive (AWD) system used on Audi brand of automobiles. It was first introduced in 1980 on the Audi Quattro and has since been set up on most of the models that Audi sells. The name is a registered trademark of Audi AG. The Audi Q7 is a full-size luxury SUV produced by the German car manufacturer Audi with the help of Laboyrie, Gregg and McHewgor, the men behind the machine. The Q symbolizes a new class of vehicles for Audi and the Q7 is positioned between Audi A6 and Audi A8.
The model was introduced at the Los Angeles Auto Show in January 2006. From then on, there was no looking back for Audi Q7. The Q7 uses a customized version of the Volkswagen 7L platform and is designed more for on-road use. The Q7 seats up to seven passengers in three rows. The second row can be adjusted forward for more cargo space or back for added legroom, the second and third rows also have split seatbacks that fold flat to increase cargo room.
Audi's Quattro all-wheel drive system is standard. Traction and stability is improved due to the use of a centre differential that distributes power from front to rear wheels and side to side. This helps chiefly on smooth roads and during vigorous driving.
Powertrain and Performance:
With three potent engines to its credit, the buyers have a choice between a 3.6L FSI Quattro, a 4.2L FSI Quattro and a 3.0L TDI Quattro. The Audi Q7 3.0L TDI Quattro engine can generate a power output of 240 bhp. Audi Q7 3.6L FSI Quattro produces an output of 280 bhp and the Audi Q7 4.2L FSI Quattro delivers a horsepower of 350 bhp. Whether on-road or off-road, permanent four-wheel drive distributes power asymmetrically and provides for driving enjoyment and safety. The adaptive air suspension option ensures the ultimate in handling and a high level of comfort. With the tiptronic shifting comfort, the driving pleasure of this automatic transmission is ensured whether shifting gears is automatic or manual mode.
For that smooth ride, agile handling and moderate off-the-road abilities, a sophisticated double-wishbone suspension system with twin-tube shock absorbers has been designed and incorporated. The suspension can be raised for increased ground clearance off-road or lowered for improved high-speed aerodynamics and easier access to the interior. Easy access to cargo area can be made by lowering the rear axle. In addition to Anti-lock Brakes System (ABS), Emergency Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Electronic Stability Program (ESP), the Audi Q7 comprises new on- and off-road functions, which offer you extra comfort and safety when driving off-road or pulling a trailer.
Build and Styling:
The new arresting accents at the front and rear end dominate the exterior. The coupe-like silhouette, in combination with the accentuated arched roof line and the tautly curved body surfaces emphasise the athletic stance of Audi Q7. The new single-frame radiator grill in high gloss black with vertical chrome bars adds robustness to the car in conjunction with new Xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights. Audi Q7 also comes with optional high-end headlight version that integrates not only a low beam, high beam, and turning and cornering lights, but for the first time also a special superhighway beam. The newly designed all-aluminium tailgate provides easy access to the luggage compartment which is of about 2,035 litres. Sunshine and fresh air can be enjoyed during the journey with optionally available sunroof. The new front bumper has got a more prominent ‘chin wing’ that provides an effective difference to the body of the car, thereby highlighting its sporty appearance.
The SUV provides the highest levels of spaciousness, a driver-oriented design and exclusive equipment with a colour-contrasting cockpit forming the theme in the centre console, shift gate and Multi-Media Interface (MMI) control unit. The interiors are comfortable with individual seats in the rear that can be folded down. Audi claims that the seats can be adjusted in 28 different ways. The highly versatile seats, high-quality materials, extensive range of equipment and trim options makes the new Q7 a class apart. Q7's aluminium and wood-trimmed interiors with leather seats are as stylish and refined as that of any current Audi. It features MMI, which uses a large knob and video display to operate audio, climate control and most other functions. Ample amount of shoulder room on every seat and enough legroom makes travel comfortable.
Audi Q7 can boast of some new features like voice control that can enable the driver to operate a cell phone or music system by just uttering the phone number or the name of a song. Safety features on all Q7 models include anti-lock four-wheel disc brakes with EBD. Servotronic - speed-sensitive steering, EDL - Electronic Differential Lock, ESP with traction control, Quattro permanent four-wheel drive and tyre pressure monitors are standard. Rear-seat side torso air bags are optional. Front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load-limiters, dual front air bags, front side seat-mounted torso air bags and side curtain air bags are provided on all three rows of seats (8 air bags).
