2009 Audi Q7

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.

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.

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.

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