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Audi is releasing two new models of its Q7 SUV next year, both of which it proudly claims are greener than previous versions. The improvements are small, though -- the new 3.0 litre diesel option only squeezes 1.3 more miles out of each gallon, and the petrol/electric hybrid may manage a 20 per cent increase in efficiency, but this only brings it up to 28.8mpg.
The hybrid will at least be able to operate electrically in built-up areas, reducing pollution and noise levels, but its size and weight mean that it will only manage 1.2 miles on the Li-ion battery. Audi proudly claims that the hybrid drive train can generate 720 kWh of energy a year from regenerative braking, based on use of 12,000 miles per year. Of course, you will also have burned up 417 gallons of petrol.
The hybrid drive train may come with green associations, but the Q7 is far from being an economical car in any of its incarnations. A vehicle like this only comes anywhere near practicality if you regularly need to transport 7 people and their luggage -- which few people apart from taxi companies do. If you do need to do that, then you should take a leaf out of their book and use a larger, cheaper and more fuel efficient nine-seat Ford Tourneo.
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