More details including fewer friction plates amongst the clutches and a smaller oil pump with optimized heated oil flow all work in concert to improve the Q7's fuel consumption by 5%. Another element is a Start/Stop function which is reserved, for the moment, to the TDI.
All those details come together in an autobox that is supremely smooth and docile. Shift points are imperceptible and honestly, this 'box blurs the line between the operation of a conventional transmission and a CVT. For more involved driving, the sporty “S” mode holds gears longer.
German roads
The only Q7 I had time to discover was a base 3.0 TFSI. I clearly recall the heavy footedness of the 3.6L and am happy to report the 272-hp feels livelier and more energetic. The 8-speed Tiptronic flicks through gears with finesse scarcely seen in an SUV.
As expected, the Q7 hovers above flawless German roads. Steering and brakes are as solid as the rock of Gibraltar and imbues serious confidence, the type needed to cruise along at 200+ km/h.
The peak
The 2011 Q7's pricing has not yet been announced, but it's expected that it will change little from the 2010's. Classier, more efficient and luxurious than ever, the Q7 has little competition to really consider in the over-5-passenger accommodators. As far as prestige and brand identity go, only the Mercedes GL-Class can match it. If Driving with a capital “D” is an important criteria in your purchase, only the Q can really do.
All those details come together in an autobox that is supremely smooth and docile. Shift points are imperceptible and honestly, this 'box blurs the line between the operation of a conventional transmission and a CVT. For more involved driving, the sporty “S” mode holds gears longer.
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| If Driving with a capital “D” is an important criteria in your purchase, only the Q can really do. (Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre/Auto123.com) |
German roads
The only Q7 I had time to discover was a base 3.0 TFSI. I clearly recall the heavy footedness of the 3.6L and am happy to report the 272-hp feels livelier and more energetic. The 8-speed Tiptronic flicks through gears with finesse scarcely seen in an SUV.
As expected, the Q7 hovers above flawless German roads. Steering and brakes are as solid as the rock of Gibraltar and imbues serious confidence, the type needed to cruise along at 200+ km/h.
The peak
The 2011 Q7's pricing has not yet been announced, but it's expected that it will change little from the 2010's. Classier, more efficient and luxurious than ever, the Q7 has little competition to really consider in the over-5-passenger accommodators. As far as prestige and brand identity go, only the Mercedes GL-Class can match it. If Driving with a capital “D” is an important criteria in your purchase, only the Q can really do.
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