AUDI Q7

Our favourite 50 TDI Quattro S Line Tiptronic Price £60,505 Kerbweight 2240kg 85% match figure 1904kg Legal towing limit 3500kg Noseweight 140kg

Another superb car, the Q7 is further evidence that buyers are spoilt for choice when looking for a luxury 4x4. And for such a big vehicle, the Q7 is remarkably efficient, in part due to mild hybrid technology, which eases the strain on the engine.

The 50 TDI Quattro achieves 33.2mpg on the WLTP combined cycle, which is very respectable for a car with 282bhp and a kerbweight of 2240kg.

The Q7 is also very quick, even towing a caravan, thanks to the punch from the 3.0-litre diesel engine. Expect the Audi to tow a big, heavy twin-axle tourer up to speed with ease.

Comfort and composure

Equipped with air suspension, the Q7 tackles bumpy roads with comfort and composure. It’s in the same league as the Discovery, and much more forgiving of poor surfaces than the Volvo XC90.

As a tow car, the Q7 is stable, although when we last towed with one, we did notice slight movements when slowing from high speeds. But we’re splitting hairs, really. Any of the six SUVS we’ve chosen makes a stable tow car, and the differences between them are generally slight.

Inside, the Q7 has space for seven, in a well-made cabin. The infotainment system is first-rate, with a crystal-clear screen and impressive ease of use.

In the middle row, there’s more space than you’d find in a Discovery. In the third, however, there’s not quite as much room as the Land Rover offers. Like most seven-seaters, the Q7 is quite tight for luggage space with all seats upright. But with the back row folded, there’s more than enough capacity.