THE sheer size of the Audi Q7 4x4 gives it much more presence than the Mercedes M-class or the Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Yet precise steering and the feel of a much smaller vehicle make it quite easy to drive and even to manage in confined spaces.
It also corners better than most other off-roaders while still giving a superbly comfortable ride.
It's right up there with the BMW X5 in almost every way and is likely to be rarer, giving it more cachet.
Best buy is the 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel which is refined and quiet and almost as smooth as most petrol engines. The other choices are 3.6 V6 and 4.2 V8s for die-hard petrolheads.
Drive is to all four wheels through Audi's excellent Tiptronic six-speed automatic gearbox with full auto, sport and manual modes.
The only downside is the MMI climate/stereo/sat nav control system, which is very difficult to use.
Interior
Space is massive and seven seats come as standard. The middle row offers good head and legroom, while the rear pair come easily up out of the boot floor.
Access to them through the side doors is a squeeze, but they have space for two adults and they are perfect for children.
FAST FACTS
Audi Q7 3.0 TDi quattro
Price: Pay about £19,500 for an '06 06-reg, or £29,200 for an '07 57-reg SE
Mechanical: 230bhp, 3.0-litre, 6cyl diesel engine driving four wheels via 6-speed automatic gearbox
Max speed: 134mph
0-62mph: 9.1 seconds
Combined mpg: 27
Insurance group: 16
CO2 emissions: 279g/km
Marks: 9/10
Main rival: BMW X5, Land Rover Discovery