THE big surprise about the Audi Q7 - a well-contoured but large SUV - is that it doesn't actually feel its size.

Yes, it can carry seven people, and it's also got the luggage capacity of a small truck when not loaded with people, but thread it down a country lane or through congested traffic and it manages to shrink seamlessly around the driver.

One of its assets is a commendably small turning circle for a five metre-long vehicle. Another feature is that Audi designers have made it rewardingly responsive both in terms of steering and reaction to the throttle.

But for many potential buyers, it will be the space and refinement that draws them to the Q7.

Powered here by a 3.0 V6 mild hybrid petrol engine knocking out a healthy 335bhp with permanent four-wheel-drive and eight speed Tiptronic automatic gearbox.

Refinement and relaxation are the two most appropriate bywords for the Q7 55TFSI. The hushed mechanical noise together with a ride that allows the big five-door to glide over all but the worst bumps and potholes combine to make it a great companion for long journeys.

Whereas many past Audis tend to insulate the driver from the road a tad too much, the Q7 feeds back more information from beneath the car yet takes the sting out of the worst road irregularities. At the same time body roll is inhibited as centrifugal forces build when hustling on through curves. It feels reassuringly safe and well planted at all times.

Audi are rightly praised for their cabin design, and the Q7 is no exception boasting a contoured fascia making use of high-grade materials with plenty of soft touch areas, and possesses bags of visual appeal.

Less impressive is the touch screen which takes a bit of practise to access the necessary appliances. Controlling the heating system on the run can prove a distracting process.

All the treats - such as heated seats, heated steering wheel and electrically controlled seats - are there. There's even a massage function on the front seats, which are hugely supportive and comfortable.

Ample legroom and head-height in the second row of seats. The flip up seats that make up final row are obviously smaller but are fully acceptable for children or adults on short journeys.

The cargo area can absorb no less than 780litres of luggage, and up to 1900litres when seats are folded.

As said, the 3.0litre V6 purrs away, even as revs rise, delivering more than enough clout. And despite its substantial bulk, the Q7 is as happy to be chucked through corkscrew bends as it is trundling along the motorway at the legal limit.

Those used to diesel SUVs may be disappointed with the fuel consumption. Our best result over a 170miles gentle cross-country trip was 28mpg, and around town the average was closer 23mpg.