Audi SQ7

In the not too distant past, when the first-generation Q7 didn't had a high-performance model, they once offered a V12 variant, which is by no means one of the rarest attempts to create a V12-powered SUV, a breed unknown to many. That diesel-powered V12 Q7 was a rare breed for the privileged few and treated it to be a super SUV in its own right but sadly, like dinosaurs, it was extinct. In today's Q7, you don't expect to have a big diesel engine to be bolted to it but instead, a much milder, yet menacing, version has stepped in and it wants to capture the essence from its prehistoric predecessor, except for every single detail.

2017 Audi SQ7

2017 Audi SQ7

This is the brand new Audi SQ7 and this semi-high performance full-size crossover SUV is just one of the main reasons why performance is becoming a new normal, especially when it's diesel-powered. Sure, despite big setbacks facing today's diesel engines because of today's headlines but the new SQ7 really despises the setbacks and, in return, it does taking cases seriously on the road.

Behind its athletic styling inside and out, the SQ7 is powered by a brand new 4.0L V8 TDi engine with the world's first electric powered compressor. While it produces less than the old Q7 V12, 435HP and 900Nm compared to over 500HP of power and 1000Nm of torque, it's quicker to 100kph compared to the old Q7 V12, 4.8 seconds versus 5.5 seconds while top speed limited to 250kph, couple that to its lightweight construction, 8-speed automatic gearbox, and signature quattro permanent all-wheel drive. Although as strong as a beefed-up Russian female bodybuilder, its average fuel consumption of 7.4L/100km really means it's surprisingly frugal of a semi-high performance SUV of that size, well-fit for a family vehicle doped for perfection.

Because it's lighter and quicker than the old Q7 V12, you might think that the SQ7 handles better than the old Q7 V12 and the answer is...slightly improved. It maybe lighter compared to the old Q7 V12 thanks to its extensive use of lightweight materials as demonstrated on the normal model but there's still a hint of mildness when you drive it like a sportscar. If it gets understeer, you'll be having a big expression of dragging a very heavy object from point A to point B and when that thing drops on your foot, even when you're wearing shoes, you'll be amputated...quickly. 

Although you'll going to need a lot of force to corner it in the event of understeer, the SQ7 really ups the challenge for those who aren't afraid to say "challenge accepted" and if they get it right, the SQ7, despite the bulk, is a potent competitor compared to sports SUVs, including the Porsche Cayenne or even the Bentley Bentayga.

The price of this hunk of diesel greatness? It starts at 89,900 Euros and that's less expensive compared to the heavyweights, including the Bentley Bentayga. Despite the high-price tag, the new SQ7 really is a potent successor of the old Q7 V12, even though it has a smaller V8 diesel engine, and if drivers get things right to master this diesel behemoth on the road, feels like this day will never end and they will have more fun going places in a semi-high performance SUV that despite its size, it remains a fun family car full stop.

Photo: Audi AG

Second Generation Audi Q7

2016 Audi Q7

This is the brand new Audi Q7, and when they said brand new, they really mean it because what you're looking at here is the second-generation model of Audi's first sports utility vehicle that likes to tackle its opposition with whatever it can throw from its disposal. Starting at 58,000 Euros, the new Q7 features some of the newest features never before seen not just in an Audi but also the rest of the other cars but we'll talk about it later but first, the design.

2016 Audi Q7

2016 Audi Q7 interior

2016 Audi Q7 interior

At first glance, the new design isn't as pleasant as with the other full size SUVs because most full size SUVs of today trying to look as odd as possible and when people look at it, they do have one opinion in common. Yes, this new car look daintily odd and less charismatic than the previous model it replaces. Notice the squarish rear lamps? Looks like a child's toy where you'll have to put the correct shape but even though this is an ultra-expensive luxury utility vehicle, the new design looks cheap in my mind. On the interior, this is where the skeptics will eat their words because even though it's a discorded mess, it's more tech-savvy than the old model. You can also expect the Audi virtual cockpit instrumental panel that you get in newer Audis as well as Audi connect with 4G mobile internet, which sounds so nice.

But the tech fest doesn't stop there because for the new Q7, Audi introduced world's first features such as Predictive Efficiency Assist, Turning Assistant, and Exit Warning system. It is the first to adapt FlexRay optical fiber data bus technology, which takes advantage of all electronics as well as its new MMI, Adaptive Air Suspension, and tons of driver assistance systems.  It also comes with Avoidance Assistant, adaptive cruise control, Multi Collision brake assist, Modular Infotainment Matrix, and All-wheel steering. There are so many new features to list on the new Q7 but let's hope Audi's too sure about the gizmo overload because I might be terrified that some of its features are heavily compromised inside and out.

2016 Audi Q7

What about driving? Well, since this is an all-new car, the body is all new thanks to its brand new platform, new chassis, and a major deduction of 325kg in curb weight, making it the lightest in its class. Sounds like Boobsie's left the building from us and because with all that weight loss, the new Q7 now handles like an Audi A8, meaning all of its executive saloon feel is now enamored in this full-size SUV, and it's not even bad on the rough terrain it traverses.

Engine choices include a 3.0L TFSi engine with 333PS of power and 440Nm of torque, a 3.0L TDi ultra that promises a combined 18.2km/L of fuel economy, and a 3.0L TDi engine producing 600Nm of torque. All of the engines are mated with an hefty 8-speed tiptronic transmission. Bear that in mind that when it comes to speed and power, best be off with a turbocharged 3.0L petrol for a while but if its fuel efficiency you're after, you can go for the 3.0L TDi ultra engine because it gets you through the extra mile.

So, what's to like about the new Q7? Well, it's about the improved dynamics that handles like an full-size executive-saloon, an array of tech new to us, and its engine choices well balanced for any occasion. Things I don't like include its bizarre design, the new tech feels more compromised to us inside out, and it's somewhat expensive for a 58,000 Euro starting price. Now, what if you can compare that to the latest-generation Volvo XC90? This could be more exciting than re-watching Winter Olympics stuff...

Available colors: Carraraweiß, Tiefschwarz, Argusbraun Metallic, Florettsilber Metallic, Gletscherweiß Metallic, Graphitgrau Metallic, Karatbeige Metallic, Orcaschwarz Metallic, Tintenblau Metallic, and Daytonagrau Perleffekt.

Photo: Audi AG

Welcome Back: 2009 Audi Q7 V12 TDi

Not bad for a V12-powered SUV!

This is the world's first V12 diesel engine-powered SUV ever built by the Ingolstadt-based luxury car manufacutrer. With 500PS of power and 1000Nm of torque, the 6.0L engine provides the driving performance of the sportscar. 0-100kph in 5.5 seconds and top speed limited to 250kph. All that power in any situations are provided by the world's first 2,000 bar Bosch Common Rail system which offers impressive acoustics at the highest levels of driving comfort.

According to Audi, the Q7 V12 TDi is the best handling Q7 due to a revised suspension, tires and brakes. It can handle a lateral inclination of over .9 g on a 300-foot (91 m) skid-pad.

This car was reviewed by Jeremy Clarkson on Top Gear alongside the BMW X5 M and the Range Rover Autobiography. When handed to The Stig, it lapped the Top Gear Test Track in 1.33.2, faster than the first generation Cadillac CTS-V.

Too bad Audi stopped selling the V12 Q7 though but we've enjoyed driving this car not as a racer but as a goalkeeper for soccer or a battering ram against our opponents. It maybe gone but this world's first V12 SUV tries to keep up to challenge the likes of the BMW X5 M, Range Rover, or even the Porsche Cayenne!

Modified Audi Q7 by Project Kahn

Project Kahn Audi Q7

Another modification lashed out from the Project Kahn portfolio and this time it's in the form of the Audi Q7 flagship SUV. So, what did Project Kahn do to the Audi Q7? Outside, you can expect ground effects kit, wheel arch extensions, front fender vents, side skirts, roof spoiler, and a rear apron. Also, it comes with Project Kahn's very own 22-inch RSX rims colored in Gunmetal Grey.

Scoop: http://carscoop.blogspot.com/2012/02/project-kahn-wide-body-audi-q7-30-tdi.html