Audi Q7 V12 6.0 TDI 5dr Car Review - March 2012

The V12 engine delivers an impressive output of 493 bhp at 3750 rpm with a torque rating of 737 lb-ft at 1750-3250 rpm: the most impressive performance credentials within the Q7 range. The car has a limited top speed of 155mph and reaches 0-62 mph in just 5.5 seconds - sports car territory.

The car excels when it comes to handling and steering however and Audi’s experience with air-suspension really comes into play in this model. The drive is comfortable and smooth with imperfections in the road barely noticeable thanks to good suspension and sharp, responsive steering. The additional power of this model is not offered at the sacrifice of control and the Q7 V12 is a good car to drive.

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

In terms of equipment, the Audi Q7 V12 offers a decent supply of kit and 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.

Q7 V12 owners also benefit from receiving a built-in sat nav system as standard – something which costs an extra £1,510 across most of the standard Q7 range.

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. A metallic paint finish on the outside also costs £765 which is a bit mean at this price level.

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. In terms of practicality the boot offers a more than ample 775 litres even when all the seats are in place and this makes it ideal for family use. Folding the rear seats expands this already generous capacity to an impressive 2,035 litres.

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

The car also comes with a three year warranty for 60,000 miles and VWs have a fantastic reputation for reliability.

Priced at £100,370 this is a hugely expensive model which is well outside of the budget of the average car buyer. Insurance premiums will be astronomical under insurance group 50 which, combined with the poor fuel economy and high road tax, make this a very expensive vehicle.

That being said, the power credentials are exceptional and transform this 4x4 into a supercar of its class. For those interested in performance and performance alone, this car will be a safe bet but for those more concerned with their budget, the smaller 3.0 litre standard diesel Q7 models offer better value for money alongside decent performance levels.

Fuel consumption is surprisingly high at 25.0 mpg but running costs will still be astronomical. The 298g/km of carbon dioxide that the Q7 produces pushes it into VED band M.