OVERVIEW
With three rows of seating and weighing in at nearly 4,800 pounds, you might jump to the conclusion that the Audi Q7 2.0T is a pricey, underperforming people hauler. However, the Q7 has shed a significant amount of weight from that of its predecessor. As a result, it’s capable of moving from 0-60 mph in 7 seconds, and can reach a limited top speed of 130 mph.
The 2018 Audi Q7 2.0T is based on the Volkswagen Group’s MLB II platform and makes extensive use of high-strength steel aluminum for body panels to save weight over the last model.
COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE
Adding to comfort, convenience and connectivity are Audi Drive Select with up to seven modes and Audi’s Virtual Cockpit. There’s also an available full color HUD and Audi’s MMI infotainment system with 4G LTE service. Finally, there’s standard three-zone or available four-zone climate control, as well as an available Bang & Olufsen 3D Advanced Sound System or a Bose 3D Sound System.
Visibility is good all around with the low cowl and hood and thin A and B-pillars. Steering is on center and responsive. The second-row folding seats are arranged in a 40/20/40 configuration. The dual 40/40 third row seats are power folding, but on the snug side for larger adults.
SIZE MATTERS
The exterior dimensions of the 2018 Audi Q7 2.0T are slightly smaller overall than the first generation model. However, it did gain 0.1 inches in height. The wheelbase is now 117.9 inches, the overall length 199.6 inches, width measures 77.5 inches. The 2018 Audi Q7 sports a height of 68.5 inches. It’s still a big vehicle, but somehow manages to come across as more wagon-like in both its appearance and handling characteristics.
The 2018 Audi Q7 comes in three levels of trim: Premium, a mid-range Premium Plus, and the top-spec Prestige.
PERFORMANCE
Motive force comes from a longitudinally-mounted 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Slotted below the 3.0-liter six-cylinder unit, the four-cylinder makes 252 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. The Q7’s fuel capacity is 22.5 gallons and its EPA estimates stand at 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. That makes for a combined rating of 21 mpg. The 2.0T model can tow up to 4,400 pounds, while the 3.0T is capable of towing up to 7,700 pounds.
The 2018 Audi Q7’s suspension consists of a five-link independent setup with steel springs and optional 4-corner adjustable air suspension. This Q7 rolls on Goodyear Eagle Sport all-season tires, mounted on 18-inch alloy wheels. Braking duties are managed by power-assisted four wheel ventilated discs.
Piloting the 2018 Audi Q7 2.0T is akin to driving a premium luxury sport sedan. That’s mainly due to its ability to shed off its bulk and exhibit a remarkable level of agility. Handling characteristics showcase minimal body roll during more spirited maneuvers.
Acceleration is more than satisfactory given the vehicle’s displacement of the atmosphere. The ride comfort level is outstanding and the interior ambience is sumptuous and luxurious. The level and content of convenience features all contribute to a pleasant overall experience.
The Q7 is capable of performing some of the dynamic exercises via its innovative and instinctive adaptive cruise control that teams with the navigation system and Google Maps initiating braking and acceleration through approaching curves while even adding non-intrusive steering inputs. Switching from the Dynamic to the Auto or Comfort mode tones down performance levels to a more relaxed state for extended road trips.
There are two off-road modes for assistance in modest off road excursions allowing for raising the ground clearance to 9.6-inches, but remember, the Audi Q7 has no low range transfer case. As a result, you may want to avoid serious rock crawling.
TFLCAR’S TAKE
Audi has succeeded in making this large SUV visually appealing, and it fits well into the balance of their vehicle offerings. It carries a heightened level of luxury throughout the cabin, as well as some impressive agility. Yes, the price tag is on the high side of the equation, but it seemed well worth the investment.
The 2018 Audi Q7 has a base price set around $49,900. Options and extras like a Warm Weather and Cold Weather Package, Vision Package, and Driver Assistance Package pushed the price up to $62,100.
SPECIFICATIONS: 2018 Audi Q7 2.0T Premium Plus
| On Sale: | Now |
| Base MSRP: | $49,900 |
| Price as Tested: |
$62,100 |
| Engine: | 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 |
| Drivetrain (Layout): | Longitudinally-mounted front engine, all-wheel drive |
| Horsepower: | 252 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
| Torque: | 273 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm |
| Transmission: | 8-speed automatic w/ paddle shifters |
| Suspension: | Front: Five-link independent with steel springs and optional 4-corner adjustable air suspension with five settings
Rear: Five-link independent with steel springs and optional adjustable air suspension |
| Brakes: | Power-assisted four wheel ventilated discs |
| Tires: | Goodyear Eagle Sport 255/60 R18 108H all-season mounted on 5-grooved-spoke alloy wheels. |
| Fuel capacity: | 22.5 gallons |
| Fuel economy (EPA): | 19 City / 25 Highway / 21 Combined mpg |
Dimensions:
| Wheelbase: | 117.9 inches |
| Length: | 199.6 inches |
| Width: | 77.5 inches |
| Height: | 68.5 inches |
| Curb Weight: | 4,776 pounds |
