On the highway, it was Dynamic mode all the way. Stiffened up and set to munch miles, the Q7 dismissed 100 km/h in less than eight seconds. On the go, it feels absolutely planted, and there’s little or no body-roll round not-so-tight corners. The 255/55 R19 Pirelli Scorpions grip well, and, together with the air suspension, offer good ride quality too. The sound-deadening is where it scores over the competition big-time; cabin noise levels are extremely low, comparable to many noted luxury saloons. The V6 gathers steam as the revs build and you go up the gears. It’s particularly quick at highway speeds and overtaking acceleration is excellent.
Pouring rain greeted us soon and the wet-weather ability also got a chance to shine. Foot-deep puddles and standing water were splashed out of the way and the LED headlights pierce through. Given the space, they also increase lighting range post 110 km/h; something that nocturnal travellers will appreciate. There’s also the headlamp cleaning system. Another bit which stands out is the dynamic parking brake, or ‘green P’ as I like to call it. It engages the brake when you come to a standstill and releases it when the accelerator is touched: very useful at red lights and in traffic jams.
Fuel efficiency figure are nine km/l in the city and 13 on the highway; that’s 10 overall. Of course, the new Q7 gives potential SUV buyers reason for a massive rethink. It’s new, it’s fresh and has dollops of style, but, more importantly, it has something the competition doesn’t: reputation. That is something that doesn’t come easy. Will it be the new king of the hill? With a tag of Rs 72.5 lakh for the Premium, and this Technology variant here for Rs 77.5 lakh (ex-Delhi), it sure seems likely.
