2021 Audi Q7 Review: A Refined Three-Row Luxury SUV

The Audi Q7 is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV manufactured by Audi. It is a three-row, seven-seat SUV introduced in 2005. The 2021 Q7 is offered in Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige trims, while the performance-oriented SQ7 is available in Premium Plus and Prestige. Quattro all-wheel drive is standard.

What’s new?

The 2021 Q7 is largely similar to the 2020 model. Notable changes include revised options and packages, along with the addition of driver-assistance features such as rear cross-traffic alert and blind-spot monitoring as standard equipment.

Here are five pros and five cons of the 2021 Audi Q7 to help you make an informed decision when considering this luxury SUV.

5 Pros

Improved Standard Safety Tech

The 2021 Q7 received a 5-star NHTSA rating in the side crash test and a 4-star rollover rating. The IIHS also gave it a ‘Good’ rating in all six crash tests and a ‘Superior’ rating for its standard front crash prevention system.

Standard safety features include Audi Pre Sense Front, Audi Pre Sense Basic, Audi Side Assist, Audi Pre Sense Rear, lane departure warning, rain-sensing windshield wipers, a rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors, and automatic high-beam headlights. Available features include adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, traffic sign recognition, night vision, intersection assist, and a surround-view camera.

Intuitive Dual Touchscreens

The Q7 features Audi’s MMI infotainment system with two responsive touchscreens: a 10.1-inch upper display and an 8.6-inch lower display. Both provide haptic feedback and audio confirmation. Standard technology includes Audi Virtual Cockpit, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, USB ports, navigation, satellite radio, Wi-Fi, and a 10-speaker stereo.

Uncluttered Standard Virtual Cockpit

Audi Virtual Cockpit replaces the traditional instrument cluster with a digital display showing navigation, exterior temperature, vehicle information, and audio settings. Its clear layout provides important information without requiring the driver to look away from the road for long.

Powerful Engines

The 2021 Q7 offers strong performance with a standard 8-speed automatic transmission. Engine choices include a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 248 hp and a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system producing 335 hp. The SQ7 features a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 producing 500 hp and can accelerate from 0 to 97 kph in 4.3 seconds.

Lavish Cabin

The Q7 offers a luxurious cabin with leather upholstery, real wood trim, and multiple digital displays. Available features include upgraded leather, heated and ventilated front seats, massaging seats, a heated steering wheel, four-zone climate control, and an Alcantara headliner.

5 Cons

Inefficient Engine

The standard 2.0-liter turbocharged engine has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of about 8 km/l in the city and 9.8 km/l on the highway. These figures are modest compared with some competitors.

Lack Of Usable Space

Although the Q7 provides several storage areas, some compartments are relatively small. Carrying larger bottles, tablets, or other items can be difficult when all three rows are occupied.

Limited Third Row

The first and second rows offer comfortable seating for adults, but the third row is better suited to children or adults on shorter journeys. Regularly carrying adults in the third row may become uncomfortable.

Access To The Third Row Is Awkward

Accessing the third row requires moving through the split second-row seats. The narrow passage can make entry and exit cumbersome, particularly for larger passengers.

Modest Cargo Space

The Q7 provides approximately 402 liters of cargo space behind the third row, 1,011 liters with the third row folded, and up to 1,970 liters with both rear rows folded. These figures are modest compared with some competitors.

Conclusion

The 2021 Audi Q7 is a well-balanced midsize luxury SUV offering a comfortable ride, strong handling, powerful engine choices, and a lavish cabin. However, limited third-row space, modest cargo capacity, and fuel efficiency are notable drawbacks.

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