Petrol-powered 4x4s usually have diabolical fuel economy and steep depreciation. Is the Audi Q7 3.0 TFSI any different? Official figures promise 26.4mpg, which is still a lot thirstier than a diesel, but not as bad as you might expect of a 268bhp petrol 4×4. It should hold on to 39% of the original price after three years – 6% less than the equivalent diesel.
You get stunning performance, though. The Q7 can go from town speeds to the motorway limit in 8.6 seconds. Stability is excellent, both at speed and when driven hard in the lane-change test.
Our practicality judge was pleased to see a Trailer Stability System and self-levelling suspension fitted to the Audi.