2009 Audi Q7

The Q7 is Audi's first ever SUV offering. The large crossover provides seating for seven and rides on Volkswagen's 7L platform. The design is based on the Audi Pikes Peak Quattro concept car, and mechanically the Q7 is similar to the Volkswagen Touareg and Porsche Cayenne.

The Q7 can be ordered with a 280 horsepower 3.6-liter V6, or a 4.2-liter 350 horsepower V8. Audi rates the V6 Q7's combined fuel consumption rated at 17mpg, which shouldn't come as a surprise as it weighs 5,027lbs. The Premium trim of the V6 is 100lbs heavier but achieves the same fuel economy numbers. Main differences between the two include equipment, with the Premium getting Audi's Advanced Multi Media Interface system, a parking system with reverse camera and an upgraded audio system with Sirius satellite radio in place of the standard six-disc in-dash, eight-speaker set-up. To distinguish the two from the outside, the Premium also gets more brightwork, including chromed roof rails.

The Premium costs $5,850 more than the base model. Both V6 models ride on 18-inch wheels with an integrated tire-pressure monitoring system, though 19-, 20- or 21-inch wheel and tire packages are optional. Other big-ticket options include a Bang & Olufsen sound system, a three-panel sunroof, luxury seating for six, a navigation system and a few packages that involve bigger wheels, more leather and / or an off-road-oriented body kit.

The V8 Q7 gets just 14 mpg on the combined cycle, and weighs 5,267 lbs. It comes with all the equipment of the V6 premium, and adds or replaces it with unique features like the engine, 20-inch wheels and a Bose-tuned surround sound system and a standard navigation system. Options not available on the V6-powered Q7s include adaptive cruise control and self-leveling air suspension.

On the safety front, the three SUVs come with ABS and EBD-enhanced four-wheel ventilated disc brakes, and Audi's Electronic Stabilization Program. Regardless of engine choice, the behemoths are limited to 130mph top speeds. Maximum towing capacity for the V6 model is 5,500lbs, with the V8 managing 6,600lb burdens.

Audi has also previewed a V12 TDI Q7 with a 500 horsepower engine similar to the one featured in the R10 Le Mans racing car. The V12 model is not currently on sale in America.

The Q7 comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel-drive, which does not have a low-range transfer case.