Audi Q7 4.2 TDI quattro SE 5dr Car Review - March 2012

The V8 diesel engine delivers an impressive 335bhp at 4000 rpm with a torque rating of 589lb-ft at 1750-2750 rpm: some of the most impressive performance credentials within the Q7 range. A top speed of 150 mph is exceptional considering the car's seven seat capacity and means that this large 4x4 performs well. The Q7 4.2 TDI will also get from 0-62 mph in just 6.4 seconds.

Audi’s experience with air-suspension really comes into play in this model and the drive is comfortable and smooth. Imperfections in the road are barely noticeable thanks to high quality suspension and steering is sharp and responsive, making handling easy and fluid.

The Q7 4.2 TDI is a handsome car and offers a decent supply of kit. Standard features which are included on this model are: 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.

A metallic paint finish on the outside costs also incurs an additional cost, of £765, whilst a built-in sat nav costs a rather hefty £1,510.

With a four star rating for both occupant safety and child safety in the NCAP crash tests, the safety levels of this model are high, making it a great option for families. Safety equipment fitted as standard on this model includes driver, passenger and front side airbags and an alarm and immobiliser to protect against theft.

The car also comes with a three year warranty for 60,000 miles. The quality of the build is high and that gives the car a feeling of stability when on the road whilst noise from the wind and road is audible but not excessive and the engine is relatively quiet when driven at constant speeds.

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 cargo and the available capacity can be expanded to 2,035 litres by folding the rear seats down.

Overall 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, making the model stand out in its class.

Priced at £53,995 this model is far from cheap and costs between £6,000 and £9,000 more than the 3.0-litre diesel options.

Insurance premiums will be high. Fuel consumption of 30.7 mpg is better than the petrol models but lacks the higher values of the less powerful diesel options. Green credentials are considerably affected by the additional power as well and carbon emissions top 242g/km placing this model into one of the highest road tax brackets (L).

Those who are more concerned with their budget than performance are likely to opt for one of the smaller and more efficient diesel options whilst those who want all-out performance will choose this Q7 4.2 TDI quattro model instead.