Audi’s Q7 has a sparkling turbo-petrol model that shines brightly amid the diesel muscle found elsewhere across the luxury family SUV range
It took about 18 months to get here after its launch overseas, but a petrol engine option was finally introduced to Audi’s upgraded Q7 line-up in Australia last year, joining the diesel-powered models and providing a fresh, powerful addition to the German brand’s large luxury SUV range. Carrying the same price tag as the muscular 50 TDI diesel – in high-series S line trim and with a quattro driveline – the 55 TFSI petrol sits a rung below the much more expensive SQ7, but mounts a convincing argument with its strong performance, solid dynamics, sophisticated ride and plush seven-seat cabin.
Paying for it
Keeping the V8 diesel-powered SQ7 aside, the 2022 Audi Q7 55 TFSI quattro S line sits at the top of the regular Q7 range alongside the equivalent-grade 50 TDI diesel.
With Audi slapping a price increase across its range earlier this year, due to “rising material costs and continued supply challenges”, the two turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 models – the 2995cc petrol (250kW/500Nm) and 2967cc diesel (210kW/600Nm), both with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology – are each now priced from $128,300 plus on-road costs.
That’s $4400 higher than before, but still well below the SQ7 (320kW/900Nm) at $162,377 plus ORCs. The 45 TDI opens the range from $109,100, while the 50 TDI sans S line trim is available from $116,100.
Our Q7 55 TFSI quattro S line test car was fitted with $8000 worth of options, including metallic Navarra Blue paint (+$2300), a tow hitch (+$1500), dynamic four-wheel steering (+$2750) and a black exterior styling pack (+$1450).
That brought the as-tested price to $136,300 plus ORCs, which is getting up there, but there’s a heap of equipment included to help justify spending well over $140K before getting it onto the road.
Headline features include a factory-fitted S line exterior styling pack, black 21-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, quad-zone climate control, a huge panoramic sunroof, adaptive air suspension and advanced lighting tech (more on that in the next section).
As per Audi’s recent announcement, every new model from the German manufacturer is covered by a five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty, up from three years offered previously.
As for servicing, a five-year plan for this model costs $3410.
High technology
Safety and tech are strong suits of the 2022 Audi Q7 55 TFSI quattro S line.
A virtual second set of eyes, the high-spec Q7 covers the bases you’d expect in terms of advanced driver assist safety systems.
Standard fare includes autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection, reverse AEB, rear cross traffic alert, blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, a 360-degree camera, front and rear parking sensors and rear exit assist.
But you also get some of Audi’s special gear, like Matrix LED headlights which somehow turn night into day when you flick on the auto high-beam function and see the individual beams at work.
Audi’s extensive suite of driver assistance aids make the Q7 easy to live with on a daily basis, although the technology does take some getting accustomed to.
A 12.3-inch virtual cockpit behind the steering wheel displays key information in whichever configuration you choose – and don’t worry, there’s plenty – while a 10.1-inch central touch-screen brings smartphone mirroring, digital radio and navigation.
Below that is another 8.6-inch touch-screen, which again uses haptic feedback and is where you control other features, such as the quad-zone climate control, engine stop/start etc.
Using that smaller touch panel on the move can be a bit tricky, at least until you learn its quirks and work out where all the controls are.
The next problem will be getting over the unsightly fingerprint marks that gather ever so quickly on the screens and surrounding piano black surfaces.
An electric tailgate, wireless phone charging and ambient interior lighting are nice touches.
Great all-rounder
The 2022 Audi Q7 55 TFSI quattro S line is a convincing machine to drive. Hurtling along like a luxury limousine on almost any road surface, the large SUV’s supremely quiet cabin, plush interior and chunky turbocharged V6 combine to produce a fantastic all-rounder.
Slinging from 0-100km/h in a claimed 5.6 seconds, the sole petrol-powered Q7 isn’t in the same league as the SQ7, but it’ll still sure put a smile on your face.
Producing its 250kW from 5200-6400rpm and 500Nm from 1370-4500rpm (that’s a lower peak and broader range than the 50 TDI, at 1750-3250rpm), the 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 petrol drives all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system.
And it’s a smooth and powerful unit, producing the goods right the way through its rev range and making for a relaxed, effortless experience on the road.
Not being a diesel, you might think it’d be a thirsty beast, but we actually came close to hitting Audi’s combined fuel consumption claim of 9.4L per 100km, averaging low-10s after seven days of extensive testing on country, highway and suburban roads.
That’s good considering the large SUV’s 2215kg unladen weight, and is clearly helped by the mild-hybrid tech on-board.
Elsewhere in the driving department, there’s a good weighting to the steering and the all-wheel steering system makes light work of cornering in this large vehicle, whether you’re snaking up a mountain pass or manoeuvring through a tight KFC drive-thru.
You’ll probably be more worried about scratching its huge 21s during the latter, however those not used to an SUV this size will appreciate the plethora of camera angles and parking sensors ready to guide you.
Across various road conditions and surfaces, the Q7 rarely feels unsettled, with oodles of grip keeping it planted to the road. It takes a decent hit to send a large thud through the cabin.
With drive modes aplenty, the versatility of the Q7’s adaptive air suspension is never in doubt, shape-shifting from a sensible SUV to a lower and tauter machine within seconds.
The 55 TFSI has the same 3500kg maximum braked towing capacity as the diesel models in the regular Q7 range, but if you’re hitching up and doing a lot of kilometres, the 50 TDI will prove the more efficient choice and has extra pulling power on its side.
Taking comfort
For many drivers, there will be no escaping the sheer size of the 2022 Audi Q7 55 TFSI quattro S line, which measures 5063mm long and 1970mm wide.
Narrow lanes and tight parking spaces take more concentration than one might like to admit, which is perhaps partly due to the price tag on this hulking chunk of SUV.
With this in mind, it’s almost a crime that the coin doesn’t bring ventilated seats, which is particularly noticeable on hotter days when even with the air-con pumping a thin sheen of sweat forms between the Q7’s leather seats and your bare skin.
The black leather upholstery seemed to make this even more obvious, with embarrassing sweat marks on display (if not a small pool). Lovely.
Drivers of most sizes will find a comfy position behind the wheel, where there’s lots of electric adjustment for both the seat and steering, along with great visibility in every direction.
You shouldn’t hear any complaints from the second row either, where there’s separate air-con settings with temperature and fan control, plenty of visibility out the front and side windows, and provisions made for stashing small items.
The netted map pockets on the back of the driver and front passenger seats are a bit ‘tacky’ according to some, however the general consensus from friends and family members is one of overwhelming positivity.
Accessing the third row will be easy for clued-on (strong) kids, who shouldn’t have too much trouble once they’re used to operating the powered seats.
It’s not really the place for adults though, who would do fine on shorter trips but will be rather cramped in the process.
Cargo space is great (over 700 litres) if you’re only carrying five passengers, but shrinks to just 295 litres if you’re using all seven seats – probably not enough for everyone’s luggage if you’re going away for the weekend.
Investing big
If you want to cart the family around in style, the 2022 Audi Q7 55 TFSI quattro S line is the ultimate family wagon.
It feels robust, with a heaviness to the doors that encourages you to give them a big shove to make sure they’re properly shut.
But that’s part of its appeal, making you feel safe, comfortable and really quite special.
The turbo-petrol engine is strong and incredibly refined, deserving its place alongside the diesels.
At $128,300 plus on-road costs – as a starting point – the Q7 55 TFSI is a chunky investment, but it’s one that few buyers will regret.
How much does the 2022 Audi Q7 55 TFSI quattro S line cost?Price: $128,300 (plus on-road costs)Available: NowEngine: 3.0-litre V6 turbo-petrolOutput: 250kW/500NmTransmission: Eight-speed automaticFuel: 9.4L/100km (ADR Combined)CO2: 215g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety rating: Five-star (ANCAP 2019)
Keyword: Audi Q7 55 TFSI 2022 Review