2019 Audi Q7 Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

byJames Riswickzzdcar Contributor

　　James Riswick is an automotive journalist at zzdcar.

　　

What's new

Integrated navigation is now standard on every Q7Audi Virtual Cockpit, wireless charging and LED headlights are now standard, starting with Premium Plus trimNew Convenience package adds blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alertPart of the second Q7 generation introduced for 2017

　　It would seem automakers can't have enough SUVs in their lineups these days. Audi, for instance, just doesn't have a range-topping SUV — it has three of them. There's the new five-passenger Q8, which is a sort of flagship luxury car on stilts, and the new e-tron, which is Audi's electric competitor to the Tesla Model X. And then you've got the 2019 Audi Q7.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2019 Audi Q7 2.0 TFSI Premium quattro 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$218/mo  for Q7 2.0 TFSI Premium quattro

　　Q7 2.0 TFSI Premium quattro

　　2.0 TFSI Premium quattro 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $53,550 MSRP2.0 TFSI Premium quattro SE 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $55,850 MSRP2.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $56,900 MSRP2.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro SE 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) - $58,900 MSRP3.0 TFSI Premium quattro 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl S/C 8A) - $59,950 MSRP3.0 TFSI Premium quattro SE 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl S/C 8A) - $62,250 MSRP3.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl S/C 8A) - $63,300 MSRP3.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro SE 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl S/C 8A) - $66,000 MSRP3.0 TFSI Prestige quattro 4dr SUV AWD (3.0L 6cyl S/C 8A) (Most Popular) - $68,700 MSRP

　　vs

　　$229/mo

　　Avg. Large SUV

　　Among them, the Q7 is the least exciting but also the most sensible and family-oriented choice. Although it's missing a few of the latest gadgets and gizmos available on the Q8, its various technology features remain among the most advanced, user-friendly and well-executed in the luxury car game.

　　Everything supporting those tech features is worth plenty of attention as well. The cabin's design is appealing and the quality is exceptional, even in the lower-priced Q7 trim levels. The driving experience also impresses thanks to a buttery-smooth ride quality, confident handling and whisper-like noise levels. "Serene" would be the best descriptor.

　　If there's a word that holds the Q7 back, however, it's "space." Yes, this is the biggest Audi around, but most competitors provide a more usable and comfortable third-row seat. It will be something to consider if you have to schlep around a bunch of kids frequently. Overall, however, the 2019 Audi Q7 is one of the better choices to be had for a luxury SUV — even if it is less flashy compared to its new corporate siblings.

　　Notably, we picked the 2019 Audi Q7 as one of zzdcar' Best 3-Row SUVs for 2020.

　　

zzdcar' Expert Rating

8.1 / 10

　　

Trim tested

　　Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the Audi Q7 Premium Plus (supercharged 3.0L V6 | 8-speed automatic | AWD).

　　

Scorecard

Overall	8.1 / 10
Driving	8.5
Comfort	8.5
Interior	8.5
Utility	7.5
Technology	7.5

　　

Driving

8.5

　　Even without a significantly update since 2017, the Audi Q7 remains a strong performer in the luxury midsize three-row SUV class thanks to the smooth and quiet thrust of its supercharged 3.0-liter V6 and excellent handling. When pushed at our test track, the Q7 sprinted to 60 mph in only 5.9 seconds, among the quickest times for a midsize three-row SUV.

　　It's impressive how this SUV moves, even with less sporty all-season tires. It's not only tidier than its proportions would have you expect, but it's even a bit fun to throw around corners, assuming your passengers are up for it. And in more everyday driving, shifts from the eight-speed transmission are smooth and jerk-free, and the steering and brakes offer effort-free confidence.

　　

Comfort

8.5

　　The Q7 is one of the more comfortable class options across the board. The eight-way front seats provide all-day comfort, though they're light on lateral support. The sliding and reclining second-row seats are also comfy for adults, though third-row seats are not as accommodating as some of those in more modern three-row SUVs. Adults can fit back there in a pinch, but most won't want to for long.

　　The standard suspension expertly smooths out road imperfections while maintaining composure at higher speeds. There's a rare and excellent balance of sport and comfort here. The automatic climate control is quiet yet powerful, and it's great at maintaining a set temperature. There's virtually no road or wind noise at most speeds, which makes conversations easy.

　　

Interior

8.5

　　There are a lot of features to command, but the simple MMI controllers (Audi's previous-generation infotainment) make it easy to navigate a large array of menus. All buttons and knobs are placed within easy reach, and the redundant displays and controls keep your attention on the road. The steering wheel is sized perfectly to not obstruct the driver's configurable gauge cluster.

　　Compared to other three-row SUVs, the Q7 feels slightly more compact. Front- and second-row passengers have generous space. But access to the cozier third-row isn't as easy as in many of today's new SUVs due to a two-step process to tumble the second-row seat forward. Excellent natural visibility all around makes the Q7 pretty easy to maneuver, and that's aided further by the optional around-view monitor.

　　

Utility

7.5

　　Cargo capacity ranges from 14.8 cubic feet (behind the third row) to a max of 71.6 cubic feet with all rows folded — not the smallest in the segment, but others offer more volume. The power-folding third-row seats are a nice touch and can fold in any second-row seat position. Interior storage is average as well, with the sizable door pockets the best for stashing stuff.

　　A bit rare for the class are three sets of LATCH anchors across the second row and two in the third row, providing some good child seat placement options. Audi cites a 7,700-pound towing capacity for our V6-powered Q7 with the optional tow package, and 4,400 pounds if you have the base engine. That's an impressive upper limit for a class that's usually capped at 5,000 pounds.

　　

Technology

7.5

　　Audi's last-generation MMI system is straightforward and more intuitive than the touchscreen-based system found in Audi's newest models. The navigation employs Google Earth maps and can be viewed within the driver's configurable gauge cluster as well as on the center screen. Still one of the better executions in the industry. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard and worked well with easy cable pairing. Newer Audis offer wireless CarPlay, but we're not sure we prefer it.

　　The Q7 offers a basic level of advanced driver aids as standard, but to get the full suite with blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise, lane keeping assist and a surround-view camera system, you'll need a higher trim and a few packages. The systems all work well and are worth the reasonable premium they command.

　　

Which Q7 does zzdcar recommend?

　　The Premium Plus trim is the sweet spot in the Q7 lineup. It opens the door to key tech features that are a big reason why you should be considering the Q7 in the first place. These include the standard Virtual Cockpit, wireless charging and Bose sound system upgrade, plus the availability of driver assistance items and various comfort upgrades. We would also recommend the V6 engine — the base turbocharged four-cylinder just doesn't have the power you'll want for such a large vehicle.

　　

2019 Audi Q7 models

　　The 2019 Audi Q7 is available in two trims that are associated with a different engine. The Q7 2.0T has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 248 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. It is only available with the Premium and Premium Plus trim levels. The Q7 3.0T has a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 good for 329 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. It's available in all three trim levels, including the range-topping Prestige. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic and Quattro all-wheel drive.

　　Standard equipment highlights for the Premium include 18-inch wheels (19s with the 3.0T), heated power-folding mirrors, xenon headlights, LED running lights, a hands-free power liftgate, a panoramic sunroof, automatic wipers, parking sensors, keyless entry with push-button start, and Audi Pre-Sense City (a low-speed forward collision warning system with pedestrian detection and automatic braking).

　　Other features include three-zone automatic climate control, heated power-adjustable front seats, leather upholstery, a power-adjustable steering wheel, driver-seat memory settings, a 7-inch central display, two USB ports, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a navigation system and a 10-speaker sound system. The optional Convenience package adds blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems, auto-dimming exterior mirrors and wireless smartphone charging.

　　The Premium Plus adds LED headlights, a top-view parking camera system, the Convenience package contents, Audi's Virtual Cockpit all-digital instrument panel and a Bose surround-sound audio system. The Warm Weather package offers four-zone climate control, ventilated front seats and rear-seat sunshades. The Driver Assistance package adds adaptive cruise control, automatic parking system, automatic high beams, lane keeping assist, and upgraded forward collision warning and braking system.

　　Topping the Q7 range is the 3.0T Prestige. It has the above features plus 20-inch wheels, power-closing doors and a head-up display.

　　Several packages are exclusive to the Prestige. The Luxury package adds massaging and ventilated front seats, upgraded leather upholstery, extended leather interior trim and simulated-suede headliner. The Adaptive Chassis package comes with an adaptive air suspension and four-wheel steering. There are also special interior and exterior design packages available, plus a Bang & Olufsen sound system, night-vision assist, and a choice of 21- or 22-inch wheels.

　　Optional on all trim levels is the Cold Weather package that includes a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats and all-weather floor mats. Other stand-alone items include a rear-seat entertainment system, rear side airbags, running boards and a tow package.

　　

2019 Q7 Highlights

Trim: 2.0 TFSI Premium quattro2.0 TFSI Premium quattro SE2.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro2.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro SE3.0 TFSI Premium quattro3.0 TFSI Premium quattro SE3.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro3.0 TFSI Premium Plus quattro SE3.0 TFSI Prestige quattro2.0 TFSI Premium quattro

　　

Base MSRP	$53,550
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	21 MPG
Cost to Drive	$218/month
Seating	7 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	14.8 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles