Here is What Makes the Q7 SUV Audi’s Most Instrumental Vehicle
Before we begin, it's essential to look back into how SUVs changed perceptions and the resulting popularity spike. Put simply, it boils down to the common philosophy that everything should always progress and grow. Fast forward to today, vehicles that once started as hybrids between family cars and off-road-oriented trucks now have an intimidating road presence combined with the utmost in luxury and superior practicality.
Audi takes that mindset to the next level with its very own Q-series. The Q7, in particular, was the brand's first introduction into the premium luxury SUV segment with a towering, sleek design with the promise of world-class luxury and comfort on the inside. When it rolled out in 2005, it was equipped with the Quattro all-wheel-drive system, a central locking differential, and an adaptive air suspension — not very common in cars back then. Still, the addition of numerous high-tech features brings its own set of drawbacks. Indeed, modern SUVs are significantly more complicated to work on (trust me; I bought a 2014 model a couple of years back, and despite being a mechanic myself, I had no other choice but to get my hands on an Audi Q7 manual, even just to perform basic maintenance).
Nonetheless, when it comes to the fast-paced lives we live today, a large portion of car owners appreciate the versatility that SUVs bring — no matter whether you need to bring the kids to soccer practice, drive in heavy traffic, or tackle rough terrain during your next camping trip, being able to rely on a proper SUV is not to neglect. But even then, pretty much any SUV would do, right? So why is the Q7 so important for Audi then?
Let’s discuss!
Seize the Large-SUV Craze
Of course, everybody loves a versatile vehicle that can do typical grocery runs, school drop-offs, and occasional family road trips. And what better option to tick all those boxes in style than the Audi Q7!
Notably, the Q7 is available with seven seats in three rows, making it an excellent vehicle for larger families. It’s one of the few SUVs that can accommodate kids in the third row in solid comfort while also offering sufficient cargo space. In addition, parents can enjoy luxurious materials and amenities, and in the latest Q7, one of the highest-tech cabins in the business. As a result, more customers choose to go for larger SUVs and crossovers, instead of the traditional sedan, and no need to say that with such an appealing offering, the Q7 was able to allow Audi to grab a solid piece of the SUV pie.
Brings Wealthy Customers to the Brand
Positioned high up in the Q-series lineup and just below the Q8, the Q7 is the ideal model for Audi to display its top-of-the-line safety and technology features. This premium hardware on offer means that customers don't mind going the extra mile to pick the most comprehensive variant despite the higher running costs.
However, as mentioned above, it also means you’ll definitely need to spend some time reading your Q7 owner’s manual, as most of these systems’ controls are buried in submenus in the infotainment system. It’s a bit of a hassle but certainly worth it in the end!
But with such a wide range of safety and convenience features, Audi was finally able to compete with other large SUV manufacturers. And while the German carmaker had the compact car segment quite under a firm grip by then, it’s really the Q7 that established it as a true all-arounder.
Perfect Model to Showcase Its Latest Tech
If the theme wasn't clear by now, the Q7 is worlds apart from other offerings due to the sheer number of features involved. For instance, the virtual cockpit is still unsurpassed in the industry, with a high-res screen displaying useful information, such as the navigation screen. You can also change the appearance of the dials to your liking and go full-digital or switch back to a more retro analog look.
Spend a little more, and Audi will throw in a Bang & Olufsen audio system similar to your home Hi-Fi (if you’ve never heard of B&O, look it up — truly high-end stuff). And since it’s an Audi, you’ll find oak wood inlays and high-quality materials throughout.
Audi also offers an adaptive air suspension to buyers with deeper pockets. It’s a costly upgrade, but will make your everyday ride feel like you’re flying on a magic carpet!
Nonetheless, while most of these technologies are sure appreciated, Audi’s SUV isn’t particularly reliable. For instance, the air suspension is a lovely feature, but it’s also quite expensive to repair if something goes awry (and it does quite often).
Of course, just like I did, you can always cut on the repair bills by purchasing an Audi Q7 service manual, which has a pretty hefty section on the air suspension alone. After all, if you are lucky enough to be handy yourself, doing some of the more basic repairs on your own is always your best bet to keep the mechanic away. Grab your Audi Q7 repair manual and you’ll find every troubleshooting chart and repair procedure you’ll need to fix pretty much anything on your truck.
Not sure where to find a decent repair manual without breaking the bank? Take a look at eManualOnline — you’ll thank me later!
But I digress.
Despite the higher maintenance-related fees and occasional electronic problems, the Q7 is still a pretty impressive SUV. If you are a techy person, it should be right up your alley!
Last Words
To sum it up, the Q7 was not only instrumental in building Audi up, but it’s also the perfect model to determine Audi’s trajectory in the near future.
By now, we’ve all noticed the popularity of the premium SUV category in today's market. There’s no denying it, it’s here to stay. Luckily, Audi can rely on its trusty Q7 and the 2022 model follows a tried and tested method, going for a polished exterior and a truckload of tech features inside.
Rest assured; the Q7’s DNA is still alive and well!
