Audi Q7 3.0 TDI quattro SE 5dr Car Review - March 2012

The V6 engine delivers an impressive output of 242 bhp at 3800-4400 rpm with torque ratings of 405 lb-ft at 1750-2500 rpm. A top speed of 135 mph is a little lower than the petrol equivalent and much lower than the 3.0 TFSI Quattro (333ps) S line. Acceleration speeds capable of reaching 0-62 mph in 7.8 seconds are fairly impressive and are only a fraction of a second slower than in the equivalent petrol model.

Audi’s experience with air-suspension really comes into play in this model and the drive is comfortable and smooth with imperfections in the road barely noticeable. Steering is sharp and responsive, making handling easy and fluid whilst control of the vehicle is high.

Fuel consumption of 38.2 mpg is much better than the petrol models and this is the main advantage of the diesel TDI Q7s. Green credentials are also better with just 195 g/km of carbon dioxide emitted, giving the diesels the lowest road tax costs of the range under tax band J.

In terms of internal equipment, the 3.0 litre TDI Quattro SE offers a decent supply of internal kit. Standard features include power steering, central locking, electric door mirrors, electric front windows, alloy wheels, climate control, cruise control, a full leather interior, rear parking sensors, Bluetooth connectivity and a stereo system with CD player.

This list of options is far from extensive and many rivals offer MP3 connectivity as standard with their stereos – something which costs an extra £255 in this Q7 and could put it at a disadvantage. A metallic paint finish on the outside costs £765 whilst a built-in sat nav costs a rather hefty £1,510 across the entire Q7 range.

Noise from the wind and road is audible but not excessive and the engine is relatively quiet when driven at a constant speed. The quality of the build is high and that gives the car a feeling of stability when on the road.

In terms of safety, this model comes fitted with driver, passenger and front side airbags as standard. An alarm and immobiliser is also fitted to protect the vehicle from theft and the car comes with a three year warranty for 60,000 miles. A service interval of 9,000-19,000 miles is recommended and that means maintenance costs can vary. The model performed well in the NCAP crash tests, achieving a four star rating in both occupant safety and child safety.

In terms of practicality the boot offers a more than ample 765 litres even when all the seats are in place. This means there is plenty of room for all seven occupants and their luggage. However, when the additional seats are not needed they can be folded to give a storage capacity of 2,035 litres.

Overall the space in the cabin is roomy and whilst the additional two seats are a little cramped than adults they still offer more room than the Q7’s competitors.

Priced at £44,390 this model is far from cheap but it still isn’t as expensive as the 3.0 TFSI (333ps) S line model. With better fuel economy and lower road tax costs this model is more affordable to keep on the road and that gives it an advantage over the petrol models. Insurance premiums match the standard 3.0 TFSI Quattro SE petrol under group 40 making it fairly expensive in this sense however.

However, expenses such as these are expected for a car of this size and calibre and that means potential buyers will more than likely be prepared for this inevitability. Those looking for a large 4x4 with good practicality and performance are likely to choose this model for the numerous benefits it offers alongside the stylish in-car kit.