Have you warmed up to the new Audi Q7 yet? Good, time to look at how Audi's lighter, smaller SUV performs in a straight line.
Acceleration tests might seem a little pointless, but the videos show how new cars find grip, if they use launch control to steal a few seconds and if they run out of steam at the top end.
But enough chitchat, let's look at the 2016 Audi Q7. This particular model is equipped with the least powerful engine available; a 3-liter TDI rated at 218 horsepower. It's a good one to pick if you want low fuel consumption and can also be found under the bonnet of the A7 ultra, launched last year. Peak torque is 500 Nm (368 lb-ft), available between 1,250 and 3,000 rpm.
Before the launch test, the driver plays with the Virtual Cockpit system and runs us through all the new menus. Once the acceleration pedal is pushed to the floor, the Q7 sprints to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds and will eventually reach 216 km/h.
But speed isn't the biggest forte of this Q7. It weighs just 1,995 kilograms, meaning that it's lighter by 325 kg than its predecessor. We'd dare to say that the fuel consumption of only 5.5 liters per 100 km combined is excellent.
Rival models use smaller engines to do the same job, resulting in an underpowered feel. For example, the BMW X5 xDrive25d has a twin-turbo 2-liter engine that's good for the same 218 PS. It's less economical (5.9 l/100km) and slower (8.2 seconds to 100 km/h). Meanwhile, Mercedes' GLE 250 d packs a 204 PS 2.1-liter turbo diesel.
Audi calls this strategy "rightsizing" and we think it's a good idea.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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