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

The V6 engine delivers a decent output of 286 bhp at 4750-6500 rpm with torque ratings of 295 lb-ft at 2250-4750 rpm. A top speed of 140 mph is more than impressive for a 4x4 and acceleration speeds capable of reaching 0-62 mph in 7.9 seconds are equally impressive given the car's size and weight.

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. Green credentials are also poor with the car falling under road tax band L due to carbon emission of 249 g/km.

However, 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. The car therefore excels in both handling and steering - which is sharp and responsive, making the car easy to control and stable on the road.

In terms of internal equipment, the 3.0 litre TFSI Quattro SE offers a decent supply of standard kit.This includes power steering, central locking, electric door mirrors, electric front windows, alloy wheels, climate control, cruise control, rear parking sensors, leather seats, Bluetooth connectivity and a stereo system with CD player.

Whilst the list of options may not 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.

In terms of safety, this model comes fitted with driver, passenger and front side airbags as standard as well as an alarm and immobiliser to protect the vehicle from theft. The model performed well in the NCAP crash tests, achieving a four star rating in both occupant safety and child safety.

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. 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 - something which increases the car's practicality even further.

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. A three year warranty for 60,000 miles is provided with the car and a service interval of 9,000-19,000 miles is recommended, meaning maintenance costs can vary.

Priced at £45,555 this model is far from cheap. With poor fuel economy and high insurance costs under insurance group 40 and hefty road tax bills under tax band L, keeping this car on the road will be an expensive business and this is a major disadvantage.

However, expenses such as these are expected for a car of this size and that means potential buyers will more than likely be prepared for this inevitability. Depending on the trim level, buyers may find they are able to drive the cost down to a more manageable level by refusing to pay for some of the luxuries however, this will depend on personal preferences.