E70 vs. Audi Q7

[josejb70]

I attended this morning an event hosted by Audi to introduce the Q7 to select potential buyers. Here’s the website if you care to find out more: www.audistreetsoftomorrow.com.

There were about 50 Q7s (all V8) available for guests to take out to the streets. In addition, they had a track set up with a bunch of Audi vehicles (including the Q7) and their competitors (including the X5). I’ve got to tell you guys, the E70 has some big footsteps to follow! Here are some of the highlights of the Q7:

• Keyless start-stop engine button
• MMI (their iDrive) is very intuitive and easy to use
• Rear mounted color camera that works like a charm
• Voice activated everything
• Bluetooth. I synched my phone and was ready to use it in 20 seconds.
• Nav is perfectly situated to avoid glare problems
• Steering controls have wheels which make it A LOT easier to use than buttons
• Seats are amazingly comfortable. Much more than my X5’s
• Panorama roof has diffusion screen which allows air without sun glare
• Second moonroof over third row seats with tilt-open
• Third row seats
• Cupholders are perfectly located and can accommodate two extra-large cups
• 80” from tail to the back of the front seats (with rear seats down) as opposed to 70” on the E53
• “Kneel” feature which lowers vehicle at the touch of a button on the back to help owner load heavy articles
• Programmable power liftgate to set how high it opens

The Q7 is loaded with technology. The handling is amazing and feels more like a sports car than the E53. I know this part is subjective… but it looks HOT HOT HOT! Pictures do it no justice.

I had heard Audi set its sight on the X5 as the target and in my humble opinion, they accomplished it very well. Actually it, they blew the target!

I really hope the E70 delivers in looks, handling and technology. If not, I know where I’m going next. 

Jose