Vehicle Overview Audi's Q7 luxury SUV was the German automaker's first foray into that market, and was intended to compete with fellow luxury SUVs like the Porsche Cayenne and Volvo XC90. The Q7 is available with either five or seven seats and can be equipped with a V-6 or V-8 engine. For 2008, the Q7 gains more standard equipment. The base Q7 3.6 comes standard with leather seats, an in-dash six-CD audio system and aluminum trim. The 3.6 Premium model adds a power liftgate, third-row seat, a rearview camera and Bluetooth-based cell phone connectivity. The top-of-the-line 4.2 Premium now has standard four-zone air conditioning, a navigation system and 20-inch wheels. The 4.2 model has been dropped. Exterior The Q7 is a comparatively low-slung SUV that features traditional Audi styling. A prominent grille with Audi's four-ring badging dominates the front end, and sloping D-pillars give its appearance a coupelike feel. The wheelbase measures 118.3 inches, which is nearly 6 inches longer than the related Volkswagen Touareg's. The Q7 can have 18-, 19-, 20- or 21-inch alloy wheels. Interior The Q7 can have three-row seating for up to seven occupants, and both rear seats fold flat to provide additional storage space. The seats get leather upholstery, while the center console can have wood trim. The ignition switch is located on the dashboard directly to the right of the steering wheel. The Multi Media Interface system uses a video screen, and controls things such as audio settings, navigation (if equipped) and many other vehicle functions. Under the Hood Audi puts a premium on performance by offering a 280-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 or a 350-hp, 4.2-liter V-8 engine. A six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive are standard. Safety The Q7 has several standard safety features including all-disc antilock brakes, an electronic stability system, side-impact airbags for the front seats and side curtain airbags. Rear-seat side-impact airbags are optional.