The Audi Q7 e-tron is a plug-in-hybrid that promises low running costs with a healthy slug of performance.Juggling between diesel power, electric or both happens in a way that’s almost imperceivable. Cruising on electric power, the Q7 might decide you’re going to use more battery charge in the approaching town (courtesy of a heads-up from the sat-nav) starting the diesel engine as a generator in anticipation, while the active throttle pedal vibrates gently to encourage you to conserve power.
pros Cheap to run Spacious Quick
Cons No seven-seater Expensive to buy Not so frugal cruising
The original Volkswagen Touareg was famous for offering a 5.0-litre V10 diesel engine that made it one of the most powerful models in its class.
Pros Good value Copes well in the mud Smart interior
Cons Depreciation worries Hybrid isn’t economical Can’t carry seven
The VW Touareg has been a constant for Volkswagen since 2003. It was the firm’s very first off-roader, and paved the way for the now four-strong SUV line-up. However, with the current car more than eight years old, VW thought it high time the mainstay was given a complete overhaul. So, for 2018, the Touareg is new from the ground up. It is 77mm longer and 44mm wider than before, and it sits on the VW Group’s flagship MLBevo platform. That means it shares many of its internals with cars such as the Audi Q7 and Porsche Cayenne, as well as high-end models like the Bentley Bentayga and Lamborghini Urus.
