2011 Audi Q7 3.0 TSFI quattro Sport S-Line Review

Audi’s flagship SUV is no longer under the influence of a powerful V8 engine. Commencing this year, a supercharged V6 is the optional high-performance mill in the luxurious, large yet athletic Q7.

Audi retains the Q7’s clean lines for 2011
The smooth, flowing lines of my tester were enhanced with Audi’s S line Sport Package. The upgrade included special wheels, revised front and rear bumpers and side valances along with a unique grille and S line badging and brushed aluminum inlays.

The smooth, flowing lines of my tester were enhanced with Audi’s S line Sport Package. (Photo: Rob Rothwell/Auto123.com)

Whether benefiting from enhancements brought forth by the S line package or simply appearing in its base skin, the Q7 is, in my mind at least, one of the most appealing full-size SUV in today’s crowded SUV market.

Audi has always had a penchant for clean, orderly design themes and the Q7 epitomizes that characteristic. The convention of restraint permeates the Q7’s spacious cabin as well. Here one finds all the bells and whistles but none of the needless glitz and glamour so often adorning the living space of more pretentious rides.

In addition to its business-like atmosphere, the cabin of the Q7 is constructed to the highest standards of accuracy and quality. It’s nearly impossible to criticize its form however I still have concerns around its function, specifically its Multi Media Interface (MMI) technology.

Rather than complain vociferously, I’ll just say that with time and practice the system becomes user friendly but it’s not a system that treats MMI neophytes well. For instance, there are too many steps involved to increase the bass response of the exceptionally capable Bose audio system.

I realize that many of the settings accessed through MMI are generally of the “set and forget” variety but I’m finicky and like to tailor things to my liking and mood. In others words, I’m never satisfied with the status quo, and therefore become frustrated with the many steps invoked through MMI. Okay, I’m over my rant. The MMI system is becoming more intuitive with time – and as quoted by Mick, time is on my side.

Not on my side is the price of fuel, and for 2011 Audi has done something to ease that burden without the denial of horsepower.

The cabin of the Q7 is constructed to the highest standards of accuracy and quality. (Photo: Rob Rothwell/Auto123.com)