2011 Audi Q7

 2011 Audi Q7

 2011 Audi Q7

 2011 Audi Q7

 2011 Audi Q7

 2011 Audi Q7

he new V6 TDI in the Q7 is a high-tech engine. It weighs far less than 200 kilograms (440.92 lb) and extensive measures minimize internal friction. Innovative thermal management – a new feature of many Audi engines – is particularly complex in the 3.0 TDI. The crankcase and the cylinder heads have separate cooling water circuits; coolant is not circulated within the block while the engine is warming up.

The EU 5 classification for this new entry model in the Q7 family will come as no surprise, just like its high fuel efficiency. On average, it needs 7.2 liters per 100 km (32.67 miles per U.S. gallon). And its CO2 equivalent is just 189 grams per km (304.17 grams per mile) – no other large SUV from a European brand boasts such a low value. The efficient TDI delivers 150 kW (204 hp). Its maximum torque becomes available just above the idling point: 450 Nm (331.90 lb-ft) remain constant between 1,250 and 2,750 rpm.

This large SUV accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 9.1 seconds. In the version with an optional air suspension, it reaches a top speed of 205 km/h (127.38 mph); with steel suspension, 202 km/h (125.52 mph).

The Q7 3.0 TDI with 150 kW (204 hp) offers the same power transmission as all other models in this line. The new and efficient eight-speed tiptronic – with its high overall gear ratio – delivers torque to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive, which has a sporty rear-end bias. Double wishbones made of aluminum guide all four wheels; the chassis delivers great agility and stability. An off-road mode and a hill-descent assistant aid off-road driving.

With a wheelbase measuring 3.00 meters (9.84 feet) and an overall length of 5.09 meters (16.70 feet), the interior offers plenty of room. Audi offers the Q7 with five, six or seven seats. The luggage compartment offers as much as 2,035 liters of capacity (71.87 cubic ft). This new entry model’s standard equipment package includes two-zone deluxe automatic air conditioning, a high-beam assistant, and an MMI radio multimedia interface.

Despite a generous equipment package, this model line’s new entry model costs just 51,800 euros in Germany. This basic price makes the Q7 more affordable than all of its direct competitors.