Introduced early in calendar 2006 with a 350-hp, 4.2-litre V8, the Audi of SUVs is now also available with a 280-hp, 3.6-litre V6. Both engines are linked to a 6-speed automatic transmission and a quattro all-wheel drive system that can automatically vary the front/rear torque split according to need. A 5-mode adjustable air suspension is optional. Although the Q7 is off-road capable, there's no Low Range for extreme boonie bashing, but the Q7's Porsche Cayenne-derived chassis makes this an unusually athletic SUV on paved roads (especially with the optional 275/45HR 20 tires). The V6 and V8 models are each available in regular or Premium versions, and, depending on the model, you can have five, six or seven seats.

Athletic road moves and up to seven seats

Not the easiest to drive smoothly