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The 2008 Audi Q7 Offers Drivers Agility on Any Roadway

by Dorothy Redmond

2008 Audi Q7
All-new 2008 Audi Q7 SUV

Most daily commutes do not typically include river crosses, wallabies and mountain trails, but it’s nice to know that the Audi Q7 has you covered if the need should ever arise. During a recent test drive, the Audi Q7 was taken across the wilderness of the Australian Outback, testing its durability, agility and practicality.

Climbing into the luxurious driver’s seat of the Q7 makes you feel as if you were at the helm of a ship. Audi applies its Quattro all-wheel-drive system across its model line, and the Q7 is no exception. All Q7s get standard Quattro with 42/58 front/rear torque split for optimum traction in the rough or wet conditions. Additionally, the adjustable suspension makes a big difference in the Q7's ride quality, soaking up the bumps from the Outback’s rough roads.

You see, there are no speed limits in the Outback because the road conditions will police you themselves. However, as the roads continuously morph from pavement, to red dirt, to gravel and stones to pure water, the Q7 handles them with ease. Despite our ever changing road conditions, the vehicle remains in control. The SUV’s ride is firm and there is no impact harshness despite the truck's optional 20-inch wheels and tires. Also available is a roll-stabilization program to keep the Q7 level in the corners, an off-road lift setting increases the SUV's ground clearance to nearly 10 inches when needed.

2008 Audi Q7 Rear
Rear view of 2008 Audi Q7

Drivers crossed several rivers and streams, which the Q7 took in stride! Though surprisingly rugged during these treks, the Q7 is also a luxurious riding experience. The dual air control keeps the ride argument free as passengers are able to keep their side of the vehicle at a personal level of comfort. Additional vents and climate control for rear passengers is another thoughtful perk. Also, the amazing storage space is a fan favorite because it allows for room for snacks, sweaters and plenty of essentials.

A rear camera assist, wide side mirrors made the typical “blind” spots a non-issue. Other perks include a push button system to open and close the trunk, comfortable leather seating and iPod compatibility. Riding on 18-inch wheels, the Q7 has its advantages, as the height of the vehicle provides drivers with better visibility. It is also complimented by extra wide side mirrors providing panoramic views.

2008 Audi Q7 Interior
2008 Audi Q7 - Interior view

Superior handling, visibility and technologically savvy, the Q7 exceeds what drivers come to expect in a luxury SUV. With a base price of less than $50,000, the SUV is priced close to others in the luxury segment, including the Cadillac SRX, Lexus GX 470 and Mercedes-Benz M-Class. With all-wheel drive, a choice of powerful V6 and V8 engines and one of the classiest interior in its segment, the Q7, although the new kid on the block, is a choice luxury SUV.

2008 Audi Q7

Description: SUV
Wheelbase: 118.2 inches
Length: 200.2 inches
Engine: 3.6-liter, 280 horsepower V6
Transmissions/Speeds: 3.6 Quattro, 6-speed automatic
Rear/Front drive: Four Wheel Drive, All Wheel Drive
Steering: Rack & Pinion
Braking: ABS Brakes (two or four wheel)
Air Bags: four, with second row side airbag is optional
EPA mileage: 14 mpg city/ 20 mpg hwy
MSRP: $42,500-58,600
Warranty: 48 months, or 50,000 miles

Learn more about the Audi Q7.