2016 Audi Q7 - first drive

Audi's biggest launch of 2015 is also the largest car in its range - the new second generation Q7. It is completely revamped from the ground up, replacing the first-generation car that has seen service since 2005.
We are in the Swiss Alps to test the grandest SUV that Audi has ever devised.
It's larger on the inside, more compact on the outside. It's more efficient and more lightweight - Audi has left no stone unturned in creating a much better family hauler.
Audi claims the new Q7 has the largest interior space of any car in its segment.
The fit, finish and textures are all very familiar - and very Audi!
The design however, is brand new. Note the vent running across the entire dashboard.
In Europe, there is a choice between standard instruments and Audi's virtual cockpit dashboard, as seen in the new TT. All Australian specification Q7's receive virtual cockpit as standard.
Without moving the driver's seat, there is plenty of knee room and head room in the middle row - with enough width for three adults.
The outside seats can slide on rails to adjust legroom, plus there are 16-steps of recline adjustment for extra comfort.
There are twin aircon adjustment controls, along with air vents in the center and B-pillar.
While there are a number of different interior trims available, our test car features the S-Line interior with more sport-oriented seats.
For a car that has the largest interior space in its segment, it doesn't feel that big to drive. The most impressive feature is not outright performance but how quiet and refined it is.
The focus of the new Q7 is on comfort rather than performance.
There is plenty of outward vision from the large glass area, and although it is essentially the same engine as the old car - there is an increase of 20kW and 50Nm (for 200kW & 600Nm total - 3-litre V6 TDI).
Audi claim a combined consumption of just 5.9L/100km.
Response is a bit slow when accelerating out of corners, but the 8-speed gearbox is a standout. It is smooth and intelligent - even when you don't use the steering wheel mounted paddles.
The air suspension strikes a really nice balance between ride, handling and overall comfort.
The exterior styling has polarised opinions, but the boxy look does start growing on you.
While most markets have a choice of 5 or 7 seats, Australian cars are exclusively 7-seaters.
The list of safety and technology features fitted to the new Q7 is too long and numerous to mention here. The 4-wheel-steering system as one example has reduced the turning circle by a meter.
The all new Audi Q7 lands in Australia in September 2015.
- Read the article here.