Nearly new buying guide: Audi Q7

Regarding trims, S line dominates but be warned: its stiffer suspension can be uncomfortable. For larger and smarter alloy wheels, special paint and even more kit, check out the two variations on the S line theme, Style Edition and Sport Edition. S line Plus is an additional permutation.

We can see their appeal but the contrarian in us warms to SE trim, one up from entry-level Standard. Attractions include its more supple standard suspension, sensible level of equipment and absence of body addenda. A clean one-owner 2011-reg 3.0 TDI 240 SE with 60,000 miles and full Audi service history costs £15,000. It hits the Q spot perfectly.

Top spec pick

S Line Sport Edition: Costing £3000 more than S line Plus, this trim adds even smarter 21in alloy wheels and a sporty bodykit to an existing spec that includes leather trim, privacy glass and xenon headlights.

BUYER BEWARE

Engine Feel for misfiring and poor running, often traced to emissions sensor problems. Another cause, at least on the 3.0 TDI engine, is failure of the electrically powered flaps in the inlet manifold and/or problems in the throttle body (this last fault can cause the vehicle to lurch when being driven). Staying with the 3.0 TDI engine, start it from cold and listen for the timing chains rattling as the tensioners begin to relax. If the engine is hot, the seller may be trying to hide the problem. Check for excessive turbo lag (driving a variety of Q7s will help set a benchmark). On a high-mileage car, white or blue exhaust smoke may be caused by failing piezo fuel injectors. It's an expensive fix – around £2000. If stuck in slow-moving traffic check the engine does not overheat.  

Transmission Make sure kickdown works (it requires a hefty shove) and that changes are smooth.

Suspension The air suspension system suffers a number of issues so be sure the vehicle sits properly, that it can scroll through its range of height settings and that sport and comfort modes are clearly different from each other.

Steering Be sure the steering changes weight from parking to cruising speeds. 

Tyres Make sure there's plenty of rubber remaining because they don't last long. 

Body Check the underside and body sides for off-road and parking damage, and roof drains for blockages. The exhaust is quite exposed so check this, too, for damage.

Electrics Cars fitted with towbars have been known to experience electrical issues.

Interior Make sure the air conditioning system works faultlessly. Be sure all features work as they should including connectivity systems, which can be troublesome.

Need to know

Large though it is, the Q7’s maximum braked towing limit is 3200kg compared with 3500kg (the maximum legal limit) for the Land Rover Discovery.

A shortage of head and leg room means that only small children will find the Q7’s third row of seats comfortable.