2018 Audi Q7
By Phil Shuyler
The Audi Q7 just went through a complete redesign for the 2017 model year. Visually it has a low stance, which helps give it a nimble and capable appearance. It’s powered by either a 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine with 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, or a 3.0L 6-cylinder supercharged TFSI engine that puts out 333 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. The 0-60 for the 2.0L is 7.1 seconds, while the 3.0L reaches 60 in 5.7 seconds.
Both engines are quite capable, however the 4-cylinder may leave you wanting more. The transmission you’ll find with either engine is a smooth shifting 8-speed Tiptronic automatic. Fuel economy is rated at 25 mpg highway, 19 city and 21 combined.
Quattro is standard on all Q7s and all-wheel steering is available to give you a tighter turning radius at lower speeds and more precise steering and higher speeds. Audi’s drive select includes up to 6 different modes, including Comfort, Dynamic, Auto, Individual, Offroad, and Allroad and Offroad/Lift. So no matter what condition or mood you’re in, there’s a mode for you.
Interior
The inside is Audi elegant, with available wood and brushed metal accents, and a infotainment screen that magically rises out of the dash. Of course the 12.3” fully digital virtual cockpit is available, as is the MMI all-in-touch touchpad which provides access to the infotainment screen. It enables you to handwrite various inputs as well as navigate through different screens and menus. Overall it’s easy and intuitive to use, though writing on the pad does take a little getting used to.
There’s also an available full-color head up display that projects relevant information directly in the driver’s field of vision. Handy to have, but it’ll probably take a little while before you get accustomed to using it. And who can’t live without the available adaptive ambient lighting, with over 900 color combinations!
Safety
Safety first! And the Q7 has a variety of ways to do just that. The standard Audi pre sense city detects stationary vehicles or pedestrians in the road ahead and initiates full braking when the vehicle is traveling under 52 mph and a potential collision is imminent. The available pre sense plus adds a collision warning and emergency braking at up to 137 mph.
Also available is Audi pre sense rear, rear cross traffic alert, collision avoidance assist, turn assist, and night vision assistant, just to name a few. Overall the Q7 earns a 5-Star Overall Safety Rating from NHTSA.
The 2018 Audi Q7 starts at $49,900 in the Premium trim with a 2.0L engine, and can be optioned up to around $90,000 in the Prestige trim which includes the 3.0L engine. No matter what your price point, the Q7 surrounds you with confidence and luxury.