Get in the Q

PITSTOP

After hundreds and thousands of test miles across the world, the much touted Audi Q7 has finally broken cover "" and this is how the first ever proper SUV to wear the four rings looks. Audi promises it to be the best in class, in terms of performance, space, safety and versatility.

The seven-seater Q7 will, at launch, come with two engine options: a new 4200cc V8 with FSI petrol direct injection that develops 350 bhp and 44.3 kgm of torque, and a 3000cc TDI V6 boasting the latest-generation common rail technology, that pumps out 233 bhp and over 50 kgm of turning force.

Both engines get a six-speed Tiptronic transmission, and needless to say, quattro permanent four-wheel drive comes as standard too. The Q7 comes with independent wheel suspension with double wishbones at both ends and rides on 18-inch alloys and 235/60 rubber (255/55 for the V8).

If this is not good enough for you, you can ask for the optional adaptive air suspension. The Q7 goes on sale in Europe coinciding with its official launch at the Frankfurt Motor Show on 12 September, and will be priced at the equivalent of Rs 27 lakh for the TDI. Guess what, it's on its way to India too, but will be at least 120 per cent higher than that. What can we say, but welcome, Q7!

Faster and furious

America's true sports car has got an unbeatable power boost, making it more of a supercar that can challenge the best from Europe. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, the Z06, based on the new Chevrolet Corvette C6 will be ready to scorch European tarmac this December.

The hand-built Corvette Z06 is powered by a 7000cc V8 that produces a massive 511 horses and 64 kgm, making it the fastest and most powerful Corvette ever built. Not surprising, considering it was developed alongside the C6.R Le Mans racer that won in its category this year.

Which means the Z06 can touch the century mark in just 3.9 seconds and attain a top speed of 317 kph. Just for reference, the standard Corvette C6, with its 6000cc V8 does the same in 4.2 seconds and tops out at 297 kph.

The Z06 has plenty of racing bits to make sure the rest of the car can handle what the V8 throws at it. No wonder it sits on 325/30 ZR 19 rubber - the biggest ever on a Vette! Over 150 European customers have already booked the Z06, even without having driven it. We're not surprised.