2012 Audi Q7 SUV Review & Ratings

The 2012 Audi Q7 is the brand's attempt at the full sized luxury SUV market. It has the usual handsome style that characterizes Audi, but suffers in the handling department on account of its size and weight. Regardless, the fusion of luxury and sportiness in an SUV like this one is refreshing in a market that cannot achieve the same balanced combination. All the engines available on the Q7 are respectable, the gasoline models moving the car from 0-60mph in about 7 seconds, while the diesel motor does it in a still reasonable 8.5 seconds. Power delivery is smooth and subtle.

The handling is fairly good, as is classic for Audi, but the 2012 Q7 is a full size luxury SUV, and it shows. The size, height, and weight combine, despite the efforts of the Quattro all wheel drive, to make a car that does not handle as well as other Audi's, but still handles well for a large SUV. Do not make the mistake of thinking that the Quattro all wheel drive will make the Q7 a capable off-roader. The Quattro system handles the mud poorly; its place is on the asphalt, where it provides grip in even the worst conditions.

The ride is smooth and the interior is gorgeous. Navigation on the 2012 Audi Q7 is integrated into the instrument cluster, which is a nice touch and is reflected in the A7. It has all the comfort one expects from Audi, with a relatively roomy cabin and three rows worth of comfortable seats. To have a well-equipped model, it will cost you, as many features are considered optional extras, and many may not even be available on a particular trim. For example, buyers who want the S line appearance package, but do not want to roll around on 20" wheels will be out of luck.

The 2012 Q7 seems to have been designed with children in mind. The Audi boasts a number of standard safety features, like pinch protection for the rear windows, rollover mitigation, and standard head curtain airbags. The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety gave the Q7 the highest "Good" rating in all the categories it was tested in. The 2012 Audi Q7 represents a full sized luxury SUV with undertones of sportiness. While the interior is not quite as well equipped or roomy as some competitors, it is still comfortable and stylish.