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
Like its recently reborn Range Rover siblings, the Discovery switches to aluminium construction – 85% of the body-in-white is made of the stuff – which means big weight savings; the lightest Disco 5 is 480kg lighter than the lightest 4 and stiffer too, although it still pushes the scales to 2.1 tonnes. It's no flyweight.There’s magnesium in the nose, higher-strength aluminium in key safety zones and steel subframes; Land Rover says the latter mean more load space and a better centre of gravity. Rear end aside, arguably, it looks good on the road, the interior is comfortable and smart as well as life-swallowingly practical and the driving experience is fit to deal with almost anything you can throw at it. It’s far from being a cheap car, but it’s also ready to be your only car.
