For a company synonymous with all-wheel-drive, Audi was relatively late to the game with its first true SUV. Loosely related to the Volkswagen Touareg and Porsche Cayenne, the Q7 is a substantially different vehicle offering three rows of seating which alone is unique for Audi. While most competitive vehicles feature boxy truck-like styling, the Audi's long, low roofline resembles a tall wagon. The reasonably priced ($44,000) entry-level 3.6L V6 powered Q7 includes a leather interior and dual-zone climate control. The option list is list is long, and upscale Q7 models especially those with the 4.2L V8 easily top $60,000. A 50-state compliant diesel will become available for the Q7 this year.

What Changed:

A 50-state compliant diesel engine will become available in early 2009. The 4.2L V8 becomes ULEV rated.