2012 Audi Q7 Total Car Score Analysis

Despite some very positive reviews, the 2012 Audi Q7 managed just a mid-pack Total Car Score.  
 
Judging by their road test commentary, the media really likes the Q7, finding it an excellent driver’s vehicle no matter which engine option is chosen. The fact that all of the Q7’s powertrains are hooked to Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system is a plus, as is the SUV’s comfortable-yet-capable fully independent suspension. Cabin amenities are first-rate -- heated leather front seats are among the Q7’s standard equipment -- and some impressive entertainment systems are available as options.  
 
So, with all the love in the room, why the middling score? A couple of review sites gave the Q7 fairly low numeric ratings, bringing its total average down. And there were a few criticisms of the big Audi, primarily about its small third-row seat and modest cargo capacity.  
 
First introduced in 2003, the Q7 received its most recent facelift a couple years ago. The 2012 Audi Q7 sees the addition of S line trim levels for both the gas and diesel models, plus the addition of Audi connect as an option, making the Q7 a rolling Wi-Fi hotspot.

2012 Audi Q7 Model Line-Up

The 2012 Audi Q7 is a four-door, seven-passenger SUV available with gas or diesel engines and several different trim levels.  
 
The base Premium trim comes with leather upholstery, heated front seats, satellite radio, a powered tailgate and rear parking sensors. Premium Plus trim adds front parking sensors, a navigation system and sunroof to that list. The top-tier Prestige trim, when ordered for gas-powered Q7s, includes S line equipment -- a higher output engine, unique body pieces and 20-inch wheels -- plus a warm-weather package: ventilated front seats, four-zone climate controls and window shades. Diesel-powered Prestige models share the 20 inch wheels and warm weather package, but the S line accessories are optional.  
 
The Q7’s gas engine is a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 that makes 280 horsepower (333 in S line trim) and 295 lb-ft of torque. The 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 produces 225 hp and 406 lb-ft. Both engines are mated to eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmissions and Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system.  
 
The EPA has rated the 2012 Q7 at 17 mpg city, 25 highway and 20 combined for the diesel V6 and 16/22/18 for the gas engine.  
 
Properly equipped, the 2012 Audi Q7 is rated to tow up to 6,600 pounds.

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