Model Strengths:

• Excellent Multimedia Interface
• Two New, More Efficient Gasoline Engines, Available Tdi Clean Diesel Engine Option
• Luxurious Interior Amenities
• Excellent Handling

Model Overview:

For 2013, Audi's Q7 returns with a 3.0L supercharged V6 available in two tuning levels and an optional 3.0L TDI diesel V6. The supercharged engine that comes in the Premium trim makes 272 hp and 295 ft-lb of torque. A higher performance version of the same engine that comes in the S Line makes 333 hp and 325 ft-lb of torque. The optional turbo diesel produces 240 hp and 406 ft-lb of torque. All Q7 models benefit from Audi's 8-speed Tiptronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive.

The Q7 is loaded with safety features such as airbags, tire pressure monitoring 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 system detects that a possible crash could happen, it warns the driver and prepares the braking system. At speeds of 20 mph and faster, the side assist system checks the Q7's blind spots and watches the rear of the car for fast-approaching vehicles.

The Q7 comes in several trim levels, including Premium, Premium Plus and S Line Prestige in the gas models and Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige in the diesel. The base level Premium includes LED turn signals in the exterior mirrors, 18-inch tires, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, power tailgate, a sound system with iPod integration, Bluetooth connectivity and rain and light sensors. The Premium Plus and S Line Prestige get upgrades such as Bose surround sound, driver's seat memory, a panoramic sunroof, 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 S Line also features ventilated front seats, 4-zone automatic climate control, power tilt/telescopic steering column, 20-inch wheels, heated headlight washers, adaptive headlights, special S Line exterior trim and Audi advanced key.

All Q7s have both a cold-weather and warm-weather package 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. A TDI S Line Package adds appearance both inside and out. Popular standalone options include a towing package for all trims, a panorama sunroof on Premium models, a Bang & Olufsen sound system for Prestige models, and Adaptive Air Suspension for a more responsive ride over variable terrain, also available on Prestige models.

Model Changes:

The Audi Q7 returns for 2013 essentially identical to the outgoing model, with only a few changes. Chief among them is a bump in power output for the 3.0L clean-diesel TDI V6 offering, which now does 240 horsepower. Audi claims the engine is now 55 pounds lighter than the unit it replaces, with fuel efficiency increased 12 percent from 17 mpg and 25 mpg city/highway to 19 mpg and 28 mpg, respectively. Additionally, a rear seat entertainment system is now available and Atlantis Blue replaces Mugello Blue Pearl Effect as an exterior color.

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, 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 "Top Safety Pick" status. Opting for the TDI clean diesel engine adds extra value in the form of fuel economy, with estimates of 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.