Audi Q7 SUV (2006-2015) - Interior & comfort

The Audi Q7 has reasonably firm suspension and even the entry-level model comes with huge alloy wheels as standard – which do little to improve comfort. And if you take the car out of comfort mode, passengers can find themselves bounced around over speed bumps.

Audi Q7 dashboard

With seven leather seats as standard, as well as Audi's typically solid and logical dashboard layout, the Q7 is a luxurious place to spend time. But with a replacement model expected in 2015, it's also starting to show its age.

The lo-res infotainment screen, red LCD climate-control display and slatted plastic air vents look seriously dated compared to the interior of the BMW X5 and Mercedes M-Class – as well as newer Audi models.

Audi Q7 equipment

The entry-level Audi Q7 S line is competitively priced, given the average selling price of a big SUV. It comes with equipment such as adaptive air suspension, cruise control, parking sensors, seven seats, leather upholstery and a 6.5-inch colour screen as standard. The stereo features a DAB function, along with a single CD player.

The S line Plus costs an eye-watering £4,500 more and brings sat nav, a powered tailgate and a reversing camera. It has larger alloy wheels, increased from 20 to 21 inches.

Style and Sport versions are also available in addition to the S line Plus trim, giving the Q7 either a more rugged or sportier appearance.

Audi Q7 options

The Q7 is well equipped in some respects, but having no sat nav on a car costing more than £45,000 seems particularly stingy. There are plenty of options though, including Audi Exclusive carpets, which comprises four floor mats with leather piping for a crazy £1,430. Other pricey options include a part-wood steering wheel for £665 and rear reading lights for £920.

The Technology package is more likely to improve resale values and usability. For £2,200, this adds sat nav, a colour trip computer, a power-operated tailgate and Bluetooth phone connectivity.