Top 3 things you need to know about the 2015 Audi Q7

By Farzana Chaumoo

Putting up a fight against the Volvo XC90, the Mercedes-Benz GLE and the BMW X5, here are some facts about the Q7 we reckon you didn't know.

1. Major computing power 

The Audi Q7 will give the Starship Enterprise a run in terms of computing power. The on-board safety and assistant systems on the Q7 were considered to be the most advanced mass-produced systems on an Audi ever. The Q7 is also packed with many technology features that, despite being user-friendly, will take some time to learn.

The Q7 is also equipped with Audi's high-tech MMI infotainment system that comes standard in all trims. Although, higher trims get a larger display screen along with an upgraded control knob that allows you to use your finger to handwrite addresses into the navigation system. Furthermore, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration are also available.

2. It's a lightweight

Seven-seater vehicles are not known to be light and it might sound strange to call this 2135kg SUV light. However, the Q7's previous version weighed 240kg more - equivalent to two sumo wrestlers.

Despite the weight-loss, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the Audi Q7 as a Top Safety Pick for its excellent performance in crash testing as well as for its advanced collision avoidance features. The Q7 comes with a rearview camera and front and rear parking sensors as standard. Forward collision warning is also a standard system on the SUV compared to rivals that offer it as an option.

3. Smaller but roomier

Audi engineers decreased the dimensions of the SUV by making it 37mm shorter and 15mm narrower, but oddly enough, the cabin of the Q7 became roomier. Long-legged passengers might feel a bit tight in the second row due to the hump in the floor but there is generous head- and legroom. Third-row seating is only spacious enough for small children. 

Boot space in the Q7 is one of the smallest in its class, however, both rear seats can be folded flat to increase storage space. All models are equipped with a power tailgate and there is an option for a hands-free power tailgate whereby you simply wave your foot under the rear tailgate and it will open.