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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2009 Audi Q7

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Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2013 Audi Q7

Overview

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2009 Audi Q7 Review

By KBB.com Editors

Audi admits it came late to the sport utility game, but, nevertheless, the 2009 Q7 quattro is a triumph of technology, elegance, performance and quality. The Premium Plus version wraps around seven passengers in classy comfort and safety, offering innovative features to help you park easily, drive smoothly and enjoy a versatile lifestyle. With all the hallmarks of Audi's heritage, the Q7 does not disappoint, and handling and interior amenities compare with any luxury sedan. Finally, the quattro all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional slick-surface traction and security.

You'll Like This Car If...

If you require seating for seven but dread the thought of trying to park a full-size SUV, you'll love the Q7. The Q7 's available rearview camera guides you into place with an onscreen view. Hauling people? Try the 28 different seating configurations. Cargo? Maximum trunk capacity is a mammoth 72 cubic feet.

You May Not Like This Car If...

You may not like the Q7 if adults must use the third row. They could have trouble squeezing in and out, but children and most packages fit easily. Speed demons may find the gasoline V6 version a bit underpowered.

What's New for 2009

The base 3.6 trim gains more standard content, including the Premium audio system, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, a trip computer and telescoping front sun visors. Later in the model year, a 3.0-liter clean diesel version is slated to join the line.

Driving the Q7

Driving Impressions The heft and solid feel of the 2009 Audi Q7 tooling along at highway speeds delivers a sense of sure-footedness and stability. The cruise control is easy to use and...

the adaptive air suspension's three choices – Dynamic for sporty driving, Automatic, and Comfort – cover every imaginable preference or requirement. In the off-road mode, the 8.1 inches of ground clearance works well over rocks and deep ruts, although severe washboard trails can generate some expected harshness. Then, back on-road, the suspension system automatically lowers the Q7 for higher-speed stability. While the Q7 is a fairly heavy vehicle and has a less-than-tight turning circle, the steering is precise and road noise is minimal. The seats are high, wide and supportive, the airy sunroof lets in lots of light and, with every function and feature at your fingertips, driving the Q7 compares very well to the top players in its field.

Favorite Features

Adaptive Cruise Control
This system controls speed and following distance in traffic. The driver chooses his driving mode, which automatically determines the following interval from the vehicle in front.

Parking System
This system consists of a rearview camera and audio alert to aid in parking. An image of the rear bumper, with color-keyed assistance, appears on the monitor as the Q7 is backed into a parking space. Blue areas show if the space is large enough; orange lines guide the driver for parallel or angle parking.

2009 Audi Q7 Details

Interior

The interior, like all Audis, is second to none. The 2009 Audi Q7 is trimmed with luxury woods, aluminum inlays and stitched leather everywhere, including the heatable steering wheel. The cockpit is based on the A6 and every ergonomically-designed button, knob and switch is within easy reach, whether on the steering wheel, the dash or next to the shift lever on the center console. There are ten cupholders, a cooled glovebox, the driver's seat and steering column are both height-adjustable and both front seats have lumbar support. The middle seat in the second-row bench flips down to form a mini-table, and single-pull levers allow folding the seats flat. As would be expected, there is a full complement of frontal and side airbags. The cargo compartment includes tie-downs, cargo nets, a retractable cover, partitions, telescoping racks, a ski sack and a protective liner.

Exterior

The 2009 Audi Q7's exterior is sleek, striking and sporty, with a bold rectangular grille, high beltline, narrow side windows and a coupe-like roofline capped by a rack. The front overhang is comparatively short but in perfect proportion to the intent of the sporty design. A long wheelbase provides the Q7 with a self-possessed elegance. Headlamps, door handles and arched fenders fuse into a seamless, graceful unit. Sporty styling keeps this large SUV from the behemoth category and sets it apart as a well-appointed vehicle, for either the Ritz or river-side camping. The raked windshield, a small rear roof spoiler that houses the third rear light and a three-panel sunroof, complete with shade, are well-integrated. A wrap-around 45.7-inch wide tailgate lifts on hydraulic pistons and can be programmed to rise to the height of your choice. Heatable, fold-flat sideview mirrors are massive, and settings are saved in memory.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

The Q7 3.6 features Premium Sound audio, quattro all-wheel drive, side mirrors with LED turn signals, 12-way adjustable power front seats in leather, xenon headlamps and 18-inch alloy wheels. The Premium Plus adds dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, navigation with rear parking camera and ultrasonic rear park assist, Bose Surround Sound audio and power folding side mirrors. Standard safety equipment includes front side and side-curtain airbags, electronic traction and stability control and anti-lock brakes (ABS).

Optional Equipment

A worthwhile extra is the adaptive air suspension system with adjustable ride height and roll stabilization. Also available are rear side-impact airbags and an adaptive cruise control that controls speed and following distance in traffic. Audi's side assist utilizes radar to detect other vehicles approaching along the sides and monitors blind spots during lane changes. A towing package increases trailering capacity from 5,500 to 6,600 pounds, and 20-inch alloy wheels with high performance tires are available for the Premium Plus, Prestige and 4.2 models.

Under the Hood

Audi's Q7 has the latest powertrain innovations: Fuel Straight Injection (FSI) that contributes to spontaneous response and enhanced power, the quattro all-wheel-drive system, a six-speed Tiptronic transmission and a Dynamic Shift Program that adjusts gear changes to your driving style and road conditions. Premium unleaded fuel is recommended, but the 2009 Audi Q7 can operate on regular unleaded, although doing so results in a five-percent power loss.

3.6-liter V6
280 horsepower @ 6200 rpm
266 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2750 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 14/20

4.2-liter V8
350 horsepower @ 6800 rpm
325 lb.-ft. of torque @ 3500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 13/18

To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used Audi Q7 vehicles for sale near you.

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2009 Audi Q7 Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

8.7

Out of 10

Based on 92 Ratings for the 2007 - 2013 models.

Review this car

Value

8.6/10

Quality

8.9/10
Reliability

8.8/10

Performance

8.9/10
Comfort

9.0/10

Styling

9.2/10

I love the diesel! I've had over 30 mpg on trips.

By Kevin (MI) on Thursday, March 07, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 55,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 7/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Comfortable, great mileage, beautiful truck."

Cons: "Brake job at 50,000 miles was expensive"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I waited years for Ford, GM or Chrysler to put a small diesel into an SUV (something smaller than an Excursion). I finally gave up waiting and bought the Audi Q7 with the 3.0 liter TDI. I love this truck. Even though it weighs around 5,500 lbs, I always get 21-23 mpg in town and high 20's- 30 mpg on the highway. It will get in the low 30s if you do not exceed 65 mph. This is a great vehicle for a long trip - the 26 gallon fuel tank means 700 miles between fuel stops on the highway. I've pulled a trailer from Michigan to Denver with no issues - the torque from the turbo-diesel is incredible. If I had to replace it today it would be with another Q7 diesel or the Cayenne diesel."

3 people out of 3 found this review helpful

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A Lifestyle Vehicle

By Raul (FL) on Saturday, February 09, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 28,377

10 8.0

overall rating 8 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 8/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 8/10
Performance: 8/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Tasteful, safe, lifestyle vehicle"

Cons: "Repair cost are high without warranty"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 8

"I selected the Audi Q7 TDI due to lifestyle changes. I live in Tampa, FL and work in Jacksonville, FL and commute between the two cities on the weekends. So on any given week I clock close to 600 miles. It's also a vehicle which looks good when driving up to the valet attendant at any upscale hotel. Soccer moms that like to drive with girlfriends for lunch at a local outdoor bistro when the kids are at school will be very pleased with this vehicle. I traded in my 2012 Audi Q5 3.2L Premium S Line for the 2010 Q7 TDI. The Q5 although had very good performance but limited cargo and not very comfortable for larger persons. Sitting 3 teenagers in the back also proved to be somewhat cramped. My primary criteria for the purchase of any vehicle is its safety rating. The Audi Q7 has an outstanding safety rating. As it pertains to my lifestyle I required more cargo room, driving comfort for larger individuals, comfort for longer distances, and the ability to tow at least two large Harley Davidson motorcycles or a boat. Some other considerations were having a vehicle that I could use for camping or to drive onto sand on any Florida beach. The Audi Q7 TDI met all of my requirements. In my opinion, the Porche Cayenne and the Mercedes BlueTech SUV were too "pretty" for someone with an outdoor lifstyle. The X5 Diesel was also considered but the MPG were not as good and with a slightly higher price tag. My very first weekend of ownership I drove from Jacksonville, FL to South Florida via I-95 and back up the West Coast via I-75, thru Alligator Alley, St. Petersburg, Tampa, and Ocala. I choosed to travel via the Ocala country roads to get a feel for handling the small hills and curvy roads which led me back to Jacksonville, FL. That was about a 1200 mile weekend getaway. The entire trip was very pleasant and the handling was very good. Yes, it a bigger vehicle and one should not compare this vehicle with your previous sedan, an older model SUV of a different make, or a sports car. It's not a vehichle to break the sound barrier but a vehicle to enjoy. Consider the TDI (Diesel) model since the fuel is no more expensive, and many times less expensive, than 93 Octane. I'm 45 years old and have owned Porche, BMW and various Audi models. My take for anyone that is trying to make a decision on any car is too choose based on your actual lifestyle and budget. All cars do well with proper maintenance. So drive what you like and if you wish to own a luxury brand and your budget does not allow for it then consider buying Certified Pre-Owned for greater warranty. Certified Pre-Owned vehicles offer great value and will certainly make your financial advisor or your significant other happier knowing that you have made a sound decison. Good luck on your selection. - Raul"

14 people out of 14 found this review helpful

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Fantastic Buy for 2013

By Q7 Fan (CA) on Friday, January 04, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 120

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Totally worth the price."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"This luxury SUV is not only beautiful inside and out, it handles incredibly well, has great power and is doesn't feel like you are driving a bus. The technology in the SUV is state of the art with cameras, voice navigation,heated steering and seats and a bunch of other gadgets. The panarama sunroof is wonderful."

5 people out of 6 found this review helpful

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Best SUV I have owned! I owned many before

By Jkim (CA) on Wednesday, November 21, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 72,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 9/10

Pros: "Sporty, Reliable, Great Looking"

Cons: "Small 3rd Row Seating, Gas Guzzler"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 2

"I love my 2008 Q7. I drive the 3.6 and it has been very reliable. With any German car it is all about maintaining the car. I have not had any serious issues just minor ones from normal wear and tear. I have the SLINE with 21" wheels so teh ride isn't too smooth but I am willing to sacrifice the ride quality for looks!"

3 people out of 3 found this review helpful

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What More Can you ask for

By Foot (CA) on Tuesday, October 30, 2012

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 44,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 8/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Fun to Drive, and great Attention Grabber"

Cons: "It Costs to be the Boss"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"This vehicle is everything and more than what I expect in a luxury vehicle. Since I have driven a vehicle from Mercedes, Lexus, BMW, Range Rover and now Audi. Audi by far blows the competition away I love my audi. I own the TDI prestige with air suspension, this is the smoothest ride ive experienced and my wife likes the air suspension so that she can raise the vehicle to drive higher. Mileage is dream come true for and SUV I live in N. CA and took road trip to S.CA (6hour) drive and averaged 30mpg in an SUV. I cant wait to play in the snow in it to see how well the quattro handles. I do not mind paying the maintenance fees because I enjoy what I am paying, value protecting my vehicle, and that pleasure matters most to me."

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I would chose another model

By Jpat0973 (OH) on Friday, August 24, 2012

I owned and sold this car
Reason: quality, ride, fit - My approximate mileage is 55,000

10 3.0

overall rating 3 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 3/10
Value: 4/10
Reliability: 3/10
Quality: 2/10
Performance: 4/10
Styling: 3/10
Comfort: 3/10

Pros: "good looks"

Cons: "noisy, quirky, slow, poor quality, high maint cost"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 1

"To put it nicely, I would choose a different vehicle. I owned this car for a year and was astounded at the technical, engineering, quality and performance deficiencies in this car. The ride quality was below what I would expect for an entry level SUV. Every crack or ripple in the pavement could shake a filling out of your teeth. I get "sport" suspension- this was something else. Every seem, seat joint and panel in the interior rattled when you hit a bump- which obviously was often. The MMI system controls are clumsy and far too attention grabbing to be safe. They are also located directly in front of the cupholders yet have no gusseting to prevent the smallest of spills to fry the entire MMI system that runs every feature in the car. There are numerous engineering flaws- one example is the sun roof drain tubes often become deformed and leak into the dashboard and spare tire compartment (which is where the power amp to run the car is located- a $5000 repair that they will not cover). The heated windshield washer tubes still freeze if it's under 20 degrees F. It's extremely noisy. Maintenance is in some other world from the rest of the luxury market. Routine maintenance is double that of a Mercedes- basic service (glorified oil change)is $450 and 20K mile service (oil change plus plugs and wires...plugs and wires???) is upwards of $700. Seat leather was becoming loose and shiny. In summary, this wouldn't have met a Hyundai owner's expectations. I'm astounded that there are so many glowing reviews...was this their first luxury SUV and they don't know what they're missing??? I switched to a MB GL450 and it is everything the Q7 should be."

19 people out of 25 found this review helpful

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See all 92 reviews