Prime example of German refinement
Luxury three-row SUVs are pretty popular, and the 2025 Audi Q7 stands out from the crowd with impressive performance and a sweet array of features. Audi’s luxury midsize SUV has been around for a while now, but it still hasn’t grown stale. As with all competitive segments, however, the Audi Q7 does have a few areas that could be improved.
The Audi Q7 has been on the market since the 2017 model year, but regular updates have kept it competitive. In its latest rendition, the Q7 features refreshed styling that includes a reworked grille, updated headlights and taillights, and new wheel designs. Inside, the luxury SUV gets new upholstery and trim.
Reason to love it #1: Two engine options
Engines that sip fuel have become more commonplace amid environmental concerns and regulations, which often limit the number of powertrains available in some vehicles. Fortunately, the Audi Q7 is still available with two engines: a four-cylinder and a V6. Both engines come turbocharged and are paired with either a 12V or 48V hybrid system.
The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine comes paired with a 12V hybrid system and produces 261 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. The 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine is supported by a 48V hybrid system that works in tandem to deliver 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Regardless of engine, the Q7 comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
Reason to love it #2: Shares a platform with the Audi A6
Three-row SUVs typically aren’t all that agile, nor do they usually offer a dynamic driving experience, but that’s not quite the case with the Audi Q7. The Q7 rides on the same platform as the Audi A6, a sport sedan known for its performance and refined driving experience. Thanks to its platform, the Q7 strikes a balance between a refined ride and nimble handling that puts it a step above most three-row rivals.
Reason to love it #3: Sleek Design
Despite being eight years old, the current-generation Audi Q7 combines elegance with modern styling. Its refined lines and diffuser with integrated exhaust tips created a distinctive appearance while still managing to blend in on the road. Refreshed for the 2025 model year, the Q7 is available with five wheel designs that range from 19 to 22 inches in size.
Inside, the Audi Q7 features a lush cabin with leather upholstery covering the dashboard, armrests, and upper doorsills. At the top of the range, the Q7 Prestige features individual contour front seats with ventilation and massage function, as well as a head-up display. Interestingly, you can opt for power soft-closing doors for an additional $400.
Reason to love it #4: Plenty of tech
The Audi Q7 comes packed with tech, starting with a dual touchscreen setup. A 10.1-inch touchscreen display controls the infotainment system, while a smaller 8.6-inch screen is home to the climate controls and vehicle settings. All Q7 trim levels feature a Virtual Cockpit digital gauge display and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The mid-tier Premium Plus trim adds an LED interior lighting package, wireless phone charging pad, and 23-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium sound system.
Reason to love it #5: Up to 7,000-lbs. of towing capacity
When the Audi Q7 comes equipped with the V6 engine, its towing capacity increases to a substantial 7,000 lbs. That kind of towing power beats out the Volvo XC90 and Acura MDX, both of which top out at 5,000 lbs. The Cadillac XT6’s 4,000 lbs. maximum towing capacity also falls short of the Audi Q7’s capability.
Reason to think twice #1: Priced from $60,500
The 2025 Audi Q7 is a luxury three-row SUV that can compete with the best, but it’ll cost you. The Q7 starts at $60,500, putting it a pretty penny above some of its rivals. The Volvo XC90, for example, starts at $59,745, while the Lexus TX is priced even lower, starting at $56,490. The Cadillac XT6 deeply undercuts the Q7, with a starting price just shy of $50,000.
Reason to think twice #2: Rivals offer more cargo space
The Audi Q7 seats up to seven passengers, but its cargo capacity pales in comparison to its rivals. The Q7 tops out at 69.6 cu ft. of cargo space with both the second and third rows folded down. The Volvo XC90 offers a maximum cargo capacity of 85.7 cu ft., and the Lexus TX offers up to 97 cu ft. of space. As far as American brands go, the Lincoln Aviator offers up to 78.6 cu ft. of cargo space behind the first row.
Final thoughts
There’s no denying the 2025 Audi Q7 offers a premium driving experience. Even with all its amenities, however, some other luxury three-row SUVs have more to offer. If you want the most bang for your buck, consider the Volvo XC90, Lexus TX, and Lincoln Aviator before you lock in your decision!
