After watching other automotive manufacturers reap huge profits with their sport utility vehicles, Audi this year decided to take its vaunted all wheel (quattro) drive and put it in a 2 1/2-ton SUV called the Audi Q7 that combines pep with style.

Using a cockpit design reminiscent of the Audi A6 and technology from the Touareg Volkswagen (VW owns Audi), the Q7 plucks some of the best features of the two models and then some. There are so many features in this decidedly upscale vehicle, that even after test driving the base model V-8 (there is also a Premium V-8 for $10,000 more), it was impossible to know all the functions, information niches and ergonomic touches. In fact, driving the Q7 is liking falling in love and learning more every day about what a wise choice it was. With the Q7, you yearn for a closer look.

In the front, a single-frame grille is framed between recessed Bi-Xenon headlights in the front below a rakish windshield and coupe-like roofline, the beltline sits high above muscular wheel flares and the wrap-around tailgate lifts automatically. The spacious feel inside allows seating configuration for six or seven occupants. Cup, bric-a-brac and big storage spaces abound with a luggage capacity approaching 88 cubic feet and 28 loading configurations. Wood inlays, leather surfaces, aluminum trim, push-button console controls and engine start/stop  - it all looks, works and feels good.

Options optimized our enjoyment but cost $13,000 for adaptive air suspension, navigation, extra technology (like the quality rear view camera, one of the best on the market), sunroof, 20-inch tires, climate control/heated seats, Sirius radio and a package enabling a 5,500-pound tow.  Engine choices are two - a V-6 or a V-8 in either of the two models. Our V-8 was thirsty, averaging about 17 mpg city/highway but the guzzle came with no muzzle on the motor, which had a satisfying growl of power. Other features include a “blind spot” alert in the side mirrors that triggers a green light when a vehicle is in the driver’s blind spot and then flashes brightly if the driver puts his signal on to change lanes.

The 5.6-foot long sunroof comes in three panels that sit above the first two rows of seats; adaptive cruise control keeps a set distance from the vehicle in front of you; four driving modes exist (off-road, standard, automatic and dynamic), and below 12 mph off-road, speed is kept constant on downhill descents. The air suspension controls lean and pitch and smothers bumps on and off-road.