The 2009 Audi Q7 ranks 12 out of 16 Luxury Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 74 published reviews and test drives of the Audi Q7, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2009 Audi Q7 delivers distinctive elegance, spacious cargo room, and lots of safety features. However, prices can climb to $60,000 and the SUV's performance can't quite compensate for its weight. For a more affordable and powerful alternative, consider the Acura MDX or Infiniti FX.
"A combination of luxury features, excellent build quality and a smart-looking interior make the 2009 Audi Q7 a solid choice for a five- or seven-passenger luxury crossover SUV," says Edmunds. "However, the Q7 isn't the quickest or roomiest crossover on the block." Where the Q7 really stands out is in its interior, which lives up to Audi's reputation for quality and luxury. Still, Audi's Multi Media Interface (MMI) system confuses some reviewers, though most say it's better than BMW's similar iDrive system. For 2009, the Q7 adds a turbodiesel model to its lineup. This should boost fuel economy, which was formerly a low point for the Q7. Also for 2009, several models get more standard and optional features.
The Q7 comes in several trims -- the 3.6, 3.6 Premium, 4.2 Premium and new turbodiesel-powered TDI.
The 2009 Audi Q7 offers adequate performance, but many reviewers say it's hindered by its heavy curb weight and sheer bulk. Fuel economy is also a downside. Still, the new TDI turbodiesel-powered model is a more fuel-efficient option.
The 2009 Audi Q7 is available with a 3.6-liter 280-horsepower V6 and a 4.2-liter 350-horsepower V8, both paired with an automatic transmission. New for 2009 is a turbodiesel-powered 3.0-liter TDI V6, which makes 221 horsepower. According to the EPA, the V6 model achieves 14/20 mpg city/highway, while the V8 model achieves 13/18 mpg. The new TDI model has not yet been rated, but is expected to increase fuel economy by 20 percent.
A majority of reviewers have noticed that the Audi Q7 has a distinct disadvantage on the road when it comes to handling: its weight.
The Audi Q7's interior is appropriately luxurious for its luxury-SUV status. "The mix of materials conveys a level of luxury that matches, if not exceeds, the Q7's price," says New Car Test Drive. Though the Q7 seats seven, reviewers differ as to how many passengers can actually ride comfortably. Continue with our Q7 Interior Review to learn why some reviewers complain about the cockpit controls.
The 2009 Audi Q7 does very well in federal government crash tests. Reviewers are also impressed with the innovative accident avoidance features on the Q7. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety names it a "Top Safety Pick." Road and Track calls the Q7 a "remarkably safe passenger hauler." Continue with our full Q7 Safety Review to learn about some of the Q7's unique safety options, including Side Assist.
The 2009 Audi Q7 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Q7 comes with a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty.
