New Lexus RX L & Volkswagen Touareg vs Audi Q7
Our verdict
It may be three years old, but the Audi Q7 is still the best luxury SUV you can buy. Not only is it one of the most relaxing cars on the planet to bumble around in, but it can also pick up its skirts and charge up to motorway speeds, even with a full load on board. Given that it’s the most spacious and has the joint highest towing capacity, with optional air suspension fitted, there really isn’t much it can’t do.
In second place is the Volkswagen Touareg. Although it doesn’t have seven seats, it’s thoroughly practical, roomy and, in the right spec, almost as good to drive as the Q7. However, it’s let down by its cheap-feeling interior and an uncomfortable ride unless you pay extra for air suspension.
Bringing up the rear is the Lexus RX L. While it’s well equipped and makes a great deal of sense for company car users, it lags behind when it comes to the driving experience and has a downright frustrating infotainment system.
For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to the What Car? newsletter here
1st – Audi Q7
For Best to drive overall; most spacious; cheapest to buy and run for private buyers
Against You’ll need to add a few options
Recommended options Tour Pack Advanced (£2655), Technology Pack (£1695), metallic paint (£675)
Rated 5 out of 5
Read our full Audi Q7 review
Find a great Audi Q7 deal
2nd – Volkswagen Touareg
For Sharpest handling; cheapest on PCP finance; best brakes
Against Hesitant gearbox; cheapest-feeling interior; priciest to run
Recommended options Air suspension with rear-wheel steering (£2370), metallic paint (£850)
Rated 3 out of 5
Read our full Volkswagen Touareg review
Find a great Volkswagen Touareg deal
3rd – Lexus RX L
For Best equipped; best reliability record; quietest around town
Against Fiddliest infotainment; smallest boot; no towing capability
Recommended options Metallic paint (£645)
Rated 3 out of 5
Read our full Lexus RX L review
Read the full used Lexus RX review
Find a great Lexus RX L deal
Specifications: Audi Q7 3.0 TDI 272 S line
Engine size V6, 2967cc, diesel
List price £57,785
Target Price £53,143
Power 268bhp @ 3250-4250rpm
Torque 443Ib ft @ 1500-3000rpm
Gearbox 8-spd automatic
0-60mph 6.2sec
Top speed 145mph
Gov't fuel economy 47.1mpg
Test MPG 34.3mpg
CO2 emissions 158g/km
Specifications: Lexus RX L 450h Premier
Engine size V6, 3456cc, petrol, plus electric motors
List price £61,995
Target Price £57,886
Power 309bhp (total system output)
Torque 247Ib ft @ 4600rpm (engine only)
Gearbox CVT automatic
0-60mph 7.6sec
Top speed 112mph
Gov't fuel economy 47.1mpg
Test MPG 33.3mpg
CO2 emissions 138g/km
Specifications: Volkswagen Touareg 3.0 TDI 286 R-Line Tech
Engine size V6, 2967cc, diesel
List price £59,195
Target Price £55,250
Power 282bhp @ 3500-4000rpm
Torque 442Ib ft @ 2250-3250rpm
Gearbox 8-spd automatic
0-60mph 6.3sec
Top speed 146mph
Gov't fuel economy 42.8mpg
Test MPG 33.8mpg
CO2 emissions 173g/km
Read more: The best luxury SUVs >
< Previous
Page 6 of 6
