Audi Q7 3.0 TFSI quattro (333ps) S line 5dr Car Review - March 2012

The V6 engine delivers an impressive output of 328 bhp (333 PS) at 5500-6500 rpm with torque ratings of 2324 lb-ft at 2900-5300 rpm. A top speed of 152 mph is a vast improvement on the 3.0 TFSI Quattro SE and is more than impressive for a 4x4. Acceleration speeds capable of reaching 0-62 mph in 6.9 seconds are equally impressive and shave a full second off the acceleration speed of the 2.0 litre TFSI Quattro SE

Fuel consumption of 26.4 mpg is far from the best in the market but considering the size of the vehicle and the seven person seating capacity, this is hardly surprising. The fuel consumption matches that of the standard 2.0 TFSI Quattro SE and means the additional power does not affect the running costs in this way. Green credentials also remain the same with the car falling under road tax band L due to carbon emission of 249 g/km.

Handling and control remain high, with Audi’s experience with air-suspension really coming into play in this range. The drive is comfortable and smooth with imperfections in the road barely noticeable thanks to high quality suspensions and steering which is sharp and responsive. Handling is made easy and fluid through this, with control of the vehicle high.

In terms of internal equipment, the 3.0 litre TFSI (333 PS) Quattro S line 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, rear parking sensors, Bluetooth connectivity and a stereo system with CD player.

Whilst the list of options may seem extensive 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.

Compared to the 3.0 TFSI Quattro SE there is one disadvantage in terms of internal kit and that is that the seats are relegated from full leather to part leather which could be a deterrent to some buyers.

Comfort levels are fairly high in the cabin as noise from the wind and road is audible but not excessive and 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 - something which combines with a three year warranty for 60,000 miles to offer drivers confidence in their purchase.

Overall the space in the cabin is roomy and whilst the additional two seats are a little cramped for adults they still offer more room than the Q7’s competitors. This spacious reputation is then transferred to the boot, where the boot offers a more than ample 775 litres even when all the seats are in place. This means there is plenty of room for all seven occupants and their luggage and a full capacity of 2,035 litres is available when rear seats are folded down.

In terms of safety, this model performed well in the NCAP crash tests, achieving a four star rating in both occupant safety and child safety. It 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 a service interval of 9,000-19,000 miles is recommended to ensure the car is well maintained.

Priced at £51,300 this model is far from cheap and with poor fuel economy, high insurance costs under insurance group 43 and hefty road tax bills under tax band L, keeping this car on the road will be just as expensive.

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. Compared to the 3.0 TFSI Quattro SE the 3.0 TFSI Quattro (333 PS) S line offers a great additional boost of power and slight improvements to brakes and suspension which could tempt buyers. However, economy and carbon emissions remain unaltered meaning the £5,745 difference between prices may be seen as irreconcilable, making the 3.0 TFSI Quattro SE the better investment.