Audi Q7 review
The Audi Q7 luxury SUV is practical and packed with hi-tech features, while it's still capable enough of mixing it with premium rivals
The Audi Q7 is one of the best luxury SUVs on sale; capable of taking on similarly modern rivals like the BMW X5 and Mercedes GLE, while holding its own against premium 4x4s such as the Range Rover Sport. It’s great to drive too, expertly blending a plush ride with sure-footed grip, traction and body control.
The cavernous interior offers plenty of space for seven and all models are well-equipped, however plug-in hybrid models are no longer part of the Q7 line-up in the UK.
About the Audi Q7
Although a latecomer to the premium SUV class, the Audi Q7 certainly made an impact when it arrived. Launched in 2007, the original stood out thanks to its imposing dimensions and spacious seven-seat layout, where most of its rivals were only five-seaters.
Then, in 2015, the second-generation Q7 arrived. The Q7 Mk2 offers the same levels of quality as the original but in a less-weighty package. It was also the first model to use the VW Group's MLB platform, sharing its basic structure with the Bentley Bentayga, Porsche Cayenne, Volkswagen Touareg and even the Lamborghini Urus. However, all of these models are differentiated by their own unique DNA, and the Audi benefits from the German brand's image and its focus on technology.
The Q7 got a comprehensive update in 2019 – a sharper look and more luxurious interior were introduced along with new mild-hybrid petrol and diesel engines. A dual-screen infotainment system dominates the redesigned interior and there’s a focus on high-tech luxury; Audi made these changes to make sure that its largest SUV kept pace with key rivals like the Mercedes GLE, BMW X7 and Range Rover Sport. Other rivals include the BMW X5, Land Rover Discovery, Lexus RX and Volvo XC90.
For a time, Audi offered two plug-in hybrid versions of its seven-seater SUV badged as the 55 TFSI e and 60 TFSI e. They're no longer available to order in the UK, however we could see one or both return as the Q7 is due to receive a second facelift in the near future to help extend its lifespan.
But for now, the standard engine line-up consists of two diesels and one petrol – the 45 TDI, 50 TDI and 55 TFSI respectively. The diesels are mild-hybrid 3.0-litre V6 units with 228bhp and 282bhp; the petrol also uses a 3.0-litre V6 with mild-hybrid tech and produces 335bhp. The range-topping SQ7 is powered by a brawny 4.0-litre V8 petrol, making 500bhp – although earlier SQ7s packed a torquey diesel engine.
There are three trim levels on offer: S line, Black Edition and Vorsprung. Standard equipment is generous, with LED headlights, adaptive air suspension, Audi Drive Select and leather upholstery all included. Audi’s MMI Navigation Plus infotainment system works across a total of three displays – two in the middle and one behind the steering wheel in place of traditional dials. There’s a good level of safety features too, including a rear-view camera, cruise control, automatic emergency braking and all-round parking sensors. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are also standard across the range.
S line cars get a unique look with more body-coloured exterior parts and 20-inch alloys; inside, there’s upgraded leather trim and a sportier steering wheel to name but a few changes. Black Edition cars jump to 21-inch alloys and get a sportier adaptive air suspension set-up, while a smattering of dark exterior trim lends a more aggressive look. Top-spec Vorsprung models retain a similar appearance, but get a huge amount of added technology inside – but you’ll pay more than £84,000 for the privilege.
