The Audi Q7 is one of the most luxurious and versatile three-row SUVs on the market, offering an impressive combination of space, performance, and technology. Whether you’re hauling the family around town or embarking on a long road trip, the Q7 delivers a refined driving experience, an elegant interior, and cutting-edge features that make it a top contender in the luxury SUV segment.
In this review, we’ll explore the Audi Q7’s performance, design, interior features, technology, and safety systems, to understand what makes it one of the best premium SUVs in its class.
1. Overview of the Audi Q7
The Audi Q7 is a three-row, full-size luxury SUV that offers the perfect blend of performance, comfort, and practicality. With seating for up to seven passengers, the Q7 is a great choice for families or anyone needing more space without sacrificing luxury. It competes with other premium SUVs like the Mercedes-Benz GLE, BMW X7, and Volvo XC90, but stands out with its sophisticated styling, dynamic driving experience, and advanced technology.
The Q7 comes in multiple trims, including Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige, and is powered by either a turbocharged V6 or a more powerful V8 engine. With quattro all-wheel drive standard, the Q7 is designed to perform well in various driving conditions, offering a balanced mix of power, efficiency, and comfort.
2. Performance
The Audi Q7 offers a choice of two powerful engines, each designed to deliver a dynamic driving experience while also providing a comfortable, composed ride. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency, performance, or both, the Q7 offers an engine option that meets your needs.
Engine Options
- 3.0-liter Supercharged V6: The standard engine in the Audi Q7 is a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 that produces 333 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience. The V6 engine propels the Q7 from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds, offering plenty of power for both city and highway driving.
- 4.0-liter Twin-Turbocharged V8: For those seeking more performance, the Q7 55 TFSI is available with a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that generates 500 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque. This engine allows the Q7 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds, making it one of the quickest SUVs in its class. With the V8 engine, the Q7 delivers a thrilling driving experience while still offering impressive towing capacity and everyday usability.
Driving Dynamics
Despite its size, the Audi Q7 handles surprisingly well, with precise steering and a smooth ride. The adaptive air suspension, available on higher trims, adjusts the ride height based on road conditions, providing a balance between comfort and performance. The Drive Select system allows drivers to choose from several driving modes, including Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, and Offroad, giving the Q7 the versatility to handle different types of driving conditions, from daily commutes to off-road adventures.
The quattro all-wheel drive system ensures excellent traction and stability, even in challenging weather or on slippery surfaces, making the Q7 a great choice for year-round driving.
3. Design and Exterior
The Audi Q7 boasts an elegant and athletic design that combines luxurious elements with a muscular presence. Its bold lines, refined details, and distinctive Singleframe grille give the Q7 a commanding appearance on the road, while the well-balanced proportions and dynamic design cues ensure it stands out from the competition.
Exterior Features
- Singleframe Grille: The Q7’s front end is defined by Audi’s iconic Singleframe grille, which is flanked by Matrix-design LED headlights. The LED headlights not only provide superior illumination but also give the Q7 a modern and stylish look. The available HD Matrix-LED headlights provide even more precise lighting, enhancing visibility without blinding other drivers.
- Sculpted Body: The Q7 features sculpted body lines that emphasize its athleticism while maintaining a luxurious and sophisticated appearance. Its wide stance and long wheelbase give the Q7 an imposing presence, while the roofline flows seamlessly into the rear for a sleek profile.
- 20-inch Wheels: Standard 20-inch wheels provide a perfect balance between style and comfort, while optional 21-inch wheels add a sportier look to the Q7’s exterior.
- Power-Operated Tailgate: The Q7 features a standard power-operated tailgate, allowing for easy access to the spacious cargo area. The tailgate also offers a hands-free opening feature, which is convenient when your hands are full.
4. Interior and Comfort
The Audi Q7’s interior is a testament to Audi’s commitment to luxury and craftsmanship. The cabin features high-quality materials, meticulous attention to detail, and ample space for both passengers and cargo. With available three-row seating, the Q7 offers enough room to accommodate larger families or groups while maintaining a sense of refinement and comfort.
Seating and Space
- Spacious Seating: The Q7 comfortably seats seven passengers in three rows, with adjustable seating in the first and second rows. The available captain’s chairs in the second row offer added comfort and space for passengers, while the third-row seating is best suited for children or smaller adults.
- Front and Rear Seat Comfort: The front seats are power-adjustable, with heated and ventilated options available, ensuring comfort in all weather conditions. The available massaging seats in higher trims take comfort to the next level. The second-row seats also offer plenty of legroom, while the third row provides enough space for short to medium-length trips.
- Cargo Space: With the third row folded down, the Q7 offers considerable cargo space, making it ideal for family road trips or transporting larger items. Even with the third row in use, there’s still ample space for smaller items, and the power-folding rear seats make it easy to adjust the interior configuration.
Interior Features
- MMI Touch Response: The Q7 features Audi’s advanced MMI Touch Response system, which includes a pair of high-resolution touchscreens: a 10.1-inch display for infotainment and an 8.6-inch display for climate controls and vehicle settings. The system offers haptic feedback, making it easy to operate while driving.
- Virtual Cockpit: The Q7 comes standard with the Audi Virtual Cockpit, a 12.3-inch digital display that replaces traditional gauges. The display is customizable and can show a variety of information, from navigation maps to media controls, helping the driver stay informed and focused.
- Ambient Lighting: Available ambient lighting enhances the atmosphere inside the cabin, with multiple color options to match your mood or create a soothing environment during nighttime driving.
5. Technology and Infotainment
The Audi Q7 is packed with technology and infotainment features that keep you connected, entertained, and informed throughout your journey. Whether you’re using the system for navigation, media, or communication, the Q7 ensures you have everything you need at your fingertips.
Infotainment Features
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: The Q7 supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless integration with your smartphone. You can access apps, make calls, send texts, and use voice commands directly through the infotainment system.
- Audi Connect: Audi Connect offers a variety of services, including real-time traffic information, weather updates, and remote vehicle access through the myAudi app. Additionally, the Q7 comes with an available Wi-Fi hotspot, keeping passengers connected while on the go.
- Bang & Olufsen Sound System: Audi offers an available Bang & Olufsen 3D Premium Sound System with 23 speakers, providing an incredible audio experience for audiophiles. The system’s surround-sound technology delivers rich, detailed sound throughout the cabin.
Driver Assistance Features
The Audi Q7 comes equipped with a suite of advanced driver-assistance features that enhance safety and make driving easier. Some of the available features include:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane-keeping assist
- Traffic sign recognition
- Park assist
- Surround-view camera system
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
These features work together to reduce the risk of accidents and make driving more convenient, especially on long drives or in heavy traffic.
6. Fuel Efficiency
Despite its size and power, the Audi Q7 provides competitive fuel efficiency for a luxury three-row SUV. The 3.0-liter V6 engine achieves an EPA-estimated 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway, while the V8 engine offers slightly lower fuel economy with an estimated 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway.
7. Competitors
The Audi Q7 competes against other premium three-row SUVs, including:
- Mercedes-Benz GLE: Known for its luxury, advanced technology, and smooth ride.
- BMW X7: A performance-oriented luxury SUV with a focus on driving dynamics.
- Volvo XC90: A stylish, eco-friendly SUV with a focus on safety.
What sets the Q7 apart is its combination of luxury, performance, space, and cutting-edge technology, making it a standout choice for families or anyone needing a capable, refined luxury SUV.
8. Conclusion
The Audi Q7 is an exceptional choice for those seeking a luxury three-row SUV that offers performance, luxury, and practicality. With its stylish design, spacious interior, advanced technology, and powerful engine options, the Q7 provides a premium driving experience for families and individuals alike. Whether you’re taking a weekend road trip or navigating the city, the Audi Q7 ensures you do it in comfort and style.
If you’re in the market for a full-size luxury SUV, the Audi Q7 should be at the top of your list.
Let me know if you need any more articles or further information!