Model Strengths:

• Improved Multimedia Interface
• Engine Choices Include a Tdi Clean Diesel
• Updated Design Inside and Out

Model Overview:

The Q7's 280-hp, 3.6-liter V6 and 350-hp, 4.2-liter V8 gasoline engines are both equipped with Audi's FSI direct injection technology, while the 225-hp, 3.0-liter clean diesel V6 is a TDI with AdBlue to scrub the exhaust of even more particulates before it disperses into the air. All three models have a 6-speed Tiptronic transmission and Audi's Quattro all-wheel drive system. The 4.2 and TDI also have optional adaptive air suspension.

The Q7 is loaded with safety features such as airbags, TPMS and a crash sensor. There are available tech systems to help reduce the likelihood of a crash, too. Adaptive cruise control monitors the vehicle in front of the Q7 and maintains a safe distance. If the car detects that a possible crash could happen, it warns the driver and prepares the braking system. At 20 mph and up, the side assist system checks the Q7's blind spots and watches the rear of the car for fast-approaching vehicles.

The 3.6 and TDI comes in three trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. The base level Premium includes LED turn signals in the exterior mirrors, 18-inch tires, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, power tailgate, sound system with iPod integration, Bluetooth connectivity and rain and light sensors. The Premium and Premium plus get upgrades such as Bose surround sound, driver's seat memory, LED daytime running lights and xenon headlights and parking assist with rearview camera. These trims have a couple of extra options, too, such as running boards and headlight washers. The 4.2 alone can be configured for six passengers rather than seven, and it has an optional Bang & Olufsen sound system.

The 3.6 and TDI have both a cold-weather and warm-weather packages available. For colder climes, a heated multi-function steering wheel is added, while those in warmer areas will appreciate the 4-zone climate control and window shades for the side and rear windows. The 4.2 and TDI have a luxury package with Alcantara headliner and ventilate seats, while the S-line package adds paddle shifters, sportier bumpers (standard on the 4.2), headlight washers and giant 20-inch wheels to any of the Q7 models.

Model Changes:

The Q7 7-seat SUV got a major refresh for 2010. The exterior kept its same basic shape, but got new bumpers, new headlamps and taillights (LED rear lights are standard now), new glossy black grille and new lower body panels. The same gasoline and diesel engines are offered, but they now all meet California ULEV emissions standards.

The interior has a new decorative inlay on the dashboard, ambient lighting and the third generation of Audi's Multimedia Interface (MMI) system. Its navigation maps are in 3D, and it uses a joystick control as an interface. If you're not so into joysticks, MMI understands spoken natural language to help you find restaurants or gas stations.

Model Value:

The Q7 packs a lot of safety and luxury features into a large SUV. It's longer than almost any other luxury SUV (only the Mercedes-Benz GL beats it by a half inch), with lots of room for seven passengers in comfy leather seats. The NHTSA bestowed a 5-star crash-test rating on the Q7, and the IIHS granted it a "Top Safety Pick" nod. Opting for the TDI clean diesel engine adds extra value in the form of fuel economy, with 17 mph in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.