2026 Audi Q7 review

The ink may be barely dry on the Australian launch of the facelifted Audi Q7 range, but we’re already putting the base model through its paces. Missed the initial fanfare? Fear not. Sometimes, the best stories are worth waiting for.

Audi recently rolled out the red carpet for its Q8 alongside a surprise guest: the new entry-level Q7. Initially dubbed the "45 TFSI," this Q7 variant wasn’t available for test drives at the launch. Fast forward to today, the wait is over. This Q7 has arrived, sporting the same sleek updates as the rest of the Q7 family.

The 2025 Audi Q7 emerges with a subtle, yet sophisticated facelift, marking its second generation. Think refreshed lighting that sharpens its gaze, bumpers sculpted for a bolder stance, and intakes optimized for a more aggressive breath. Don’t expect a radical transformation; the magic lies in the details. More significantly, the Q7 leaps forward technologically, aligning its inner workings with Audi’s cutting-edge innovations, bringing tomorrow’s tech to today’s drive.

Forget choosing between a latte or a cappuccino – with a Q7, the options arevast, spanning almost $30,000beforeyou even glance at the fiery SQ7. The entry-level petrol model? That’s a tempting $12,000 less than the most affordable diesel, making the decision deliciously complex.

While the Audi Q7 undercuts its BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE rivals in price, it remains the underdog in Australian sales this year. But don’t mistake popularity for superiority. The Q7’s relative scarcity actually adds to its allure, making it a more exclusive choice than its ubiquitous German counterparts.

Even though the Q7’s latest iteration has found its footing, Audi isn’t resting on its laurels. Fast forward to 2026, and you’ll notice subtle refinements, including a jolt to the entry-level TDI quattro’s price tag. Expect to shell out around $3,000 more than when this facelift first hit the scene.

The Q7 still speaks Audi’s familiar language: TFSI and TDI badges whisper of petrol and diesel hearts, while ‘quattro’ promises all-wheel drive tenacity. The ‘S line’ trim remains the mark of elevated aspiration. Beyond a more streamlined naming convention and the subtle dance of price adjustments, the Q7’s essence remains untouched.

Does the base Q7 still strike the same luxurious chords as its more lucrative siblings?

How much does the Audi Q7 cost?

The TFSI 185kW quattro kicks off the Q7 range at $108,815 before on-road costs.

| Model | Price before on-road costs | | — | — | |2026 Audi Q7 TFSI 185kW quattro|$108,815| | 2026 Audi Q7 TDI 170kW quattro | $120,530 | | 2026 Audi Q7 TDI 210kW quattro S line | $136,815 | | 2026 Audi Q7 TFSI 250kW quattro S line | $136,815 | | 2026 Audi SQ7 TFSI quattro | $174,815 |

Audi stands alone, delivering seven-seat practicality standard. Rival SUVs like BMW’s X5 (starting at $138,600) and Mercedes-Benz GLE (from $136,600) demand extra for that third row.

To see how the Audi Q7 stacks up against its rivals, use ourcomparison tool

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What is the Audi Q7 like on the inside?

There’s real class about the Q7’s cabin, and it’s easy to forget you’re in an entry-level variant.

Inside, the cabin whispers of meticulous design. Every surface, crafted from premium materials, aligns with the precision and artistry Audi has always championed.

Slovakian-built, perhaps, but the Q7 shrugs off any notion of compromise. Slide into the driver’s seat, and you’re met not with flashy gimmicks, but a sense of profound solidity – a quiet confidence that makes the latest Mercedes interiors feel almost toy-like, and the BMW’s screen obsession seem utterly frivolous. The Q7 doesn’t shout “luxury”; it whispers it, leaving you undeniably impressed.

Forget fleeting flash. The Q7’s interior whispers luxury, not screams it. Subtly sculpted displays, caressable surfaces, and materials that feel as good as they look create a sanctuary of enduring quality. It’s a masterclass in understated elegance – where clean lines meet tactile delight, and every detail invites you to linger.

While the cabin’s design leans toward classic, its timelessness will likely outshine rivals clinging to fleeting trends like tablet-style screens – designs we’re already seeing lose their luster.

The Q7’s cabin whispers understated luxury. A sea of black is punctuated by glimmers of silver metallic, a restrained counterpoint that speaks volumes. This subtle interplay elevates the interior beyond mere functionality, forging a sophisticated and harmonious space that exemplifies Audi’s renowned attention to detail.

The cockpit commands attention with a vibrant 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, rivaled only by the sleek 10.1-inch touchscreen. Though modestly sized by today’s standards, the infotainment display compensates with a clever design: it melts seamlessly into the piano black dashboard, appearing as one continuous, elegant surface. Navigation is intuitive, thanks to a smartphone-esque tiled home screen that’s both sharp and remarkably user-friendly.

Imagine settling into the driver’s seat and facing not just gauges, but a digital command center. This is the ‘virtual cockpit’ – a customizable canvas displaying critical information with crisp clarity. Cycle through its personalities: one moment it’s a streamlined trip computer, the next, a concert hall showcasing your tunes, or a high-resolution map guiding your journey with the car’s own built-in GPS. It’s information, intelligently presented and beautifully rendered.

Below the shimmering multimedia display lies an 8.6-inch touchscreen, a command center for climate. But beware, this isn’t a minimalist’s dream. A galaxy of haptic buttons awaits, each click a tiny vibration in the air – almosttoomany, vying for your attention like eager stars.

Mastering the controls demands patience, especially when navigating. Haptic feedback, while present in the infotainment system, may leave some yearning for the tactile satisfaction of physical buttons. Thankfully, Audi caters to both preferences, offering a choice in how you command your driving experience.

Wrapped in supple leather, the Q7’s thin-rimmed steering wheel offers a satisfying tactile experience. Its slender spokes bristle with buttons, each delivering a crisp, decisive click that Audi drivers know and love. This familiarity extends to the cleanly designed center console, anchored by a futuristic, T-bar-shaped shift-by-wire gear selector, making even first-time Audi owners feel instantly at home.

Sink into the embrace of supple leather seats, sculpted for premium comfort. Effortlessly dial in your perfect driving position with intuitive power adjustments. Though they forego the extravagant quilted stitching of the Q7’s elite trims, these seats deliver exceptional support and enduring comfort for every journey.

Hidden treasures await within the cabin’s reach. Beneath a gleaming, weighted lid, discover a haven for your beverages – twin cupholders stand ready. Venture further, and a shallow cubby, paired with a wireless phone charger nestled under the central armrest, offers convenient tech support. Thoughtfully designed door pockets easily accommodate your favorite thirst quenchers.

Stretch out and luxuriate – the Q7 boasts a generous 3.0-meter wheelbase, translating to limousine-like legroom for second-row passengers. Headroom? Abundant. Think of it as a masterclass in passenger comfort, a trait it shares with its sophisticated siblings from the Volkswagen Group stable – the Touareg, the Cayenne, and even Audi’s sleek Q8. They all ride on the MLB Evo platform, a foundation built for spaciousness and refined driving experiences.

Passengers in the rear luxuriate with their own climate oasis. Accessed through intuitive controls nestled on the back of the center console, this personal climate zone ensures blissful comfort. Below the adjustable vents, conveniently located USB-C ports and a 12V outlet stand ready to power devices and keep everyone connected.

Forget fighting for elbow room! This fold-down armrest isn’t just about comfort; it’s a hidden command center. Flip it open to reveal twin, lidded cupholders, ready to cradle your favorite beverages. Need more space? Door-integrated bottle holsters and stretchy, netted map pockets transform your cabin into a storage sanctuary.

The bench seat doesn’t just sit there; it morphs. Slide it forward, lean it back – comfort takes center stage. Though, let’s be honest, this flexibility likely moonlights as a secret passage to the elusive third row.

"Effortless third-row access and limo-like legroom await your rear passengers. Need more cargo space? Seats fold down to a perfectly flat floor, creating cavernous storage."

While the Q7 boasts seven seats, let’s be real: think of that third row as a cozy kids’ zone or a temporary haven for shorter adults. Forget epic road trips back there – picture quick sprints, not marathons. Unlike the cavernous Land Rover Discovery or Volvo XC90, it’s not a full-fledged adult retreat, but it’s a handy bonus for hauling the whole crew around town.

The Q7’s cargo hold offers few surprises beyond the usual conveniences: seat-folding switches, a shallow under-floor compartment, and stretchy net pockets. However, the standard powered tailgate proved a welcome touch, hinting that Audi, thankfully, stopped short ofextremecost-cutting.

Forget a spare – the Q7 ditches tradition, opting for a tire repair kit, leaving you to wonder if patching is the new blacktop mantra.

| Dimensions | Audi Q7 45 TFSI quattro | | — | — | |Length| 5072mm | |Width| 1970mm | |Height| 1748mm | |Wheelbase| 3005mm | |Cargo capacity| 780L (third row folded) 1908L (second and third rows folded) |

To see how the Audi Q7 stacks up against its rivals, use ourcomparison tool

What’s under the bonnet?

Under the Q7’s hood lies a potent 2.0-litre turbocharged heart, a four-cylinder engine bursting with 185kW and 370Nm of torque. This powerhouse is paired with a silky-smooth eight-speed automatic transmission, seamlessly distributing power to all four wheels for confident grip in any condition.

| Specifications | Audi Q7 TFSI 185kW quattro | | — | — | |Engine| 2.0L 4cyl turbo-petrol | |Power| 185kW | |Torque| 370Nm | |Transmission| 8-speed auto | |Drive type| All-wheel drive | |Tare mass| 2275kg | |0-100km/h (claimed)| 7.3s | |Fuel economy (claimed)| 9.3L/100km | |Fuel economy (as tested)| 8.7L/100km | |Fuel tank capacity| 85L | |Fuel requirement| 95-octane premium unleaded | |CO2 emissions| 210g/km | |Emissions standard| Euro 6 | |Braked tow capacity| 2000kg |

The week unfolded as a tapestry of open highway and stop-start suburbs, but it was the lure of the 80km/h ribbon roads that ultimately defined our driving experience – and unfortunately, our fuel gauge. We chased economy, but the real-world charm of those winding routes meant our fuel consumption couldn’t quite match the manufacturer’s promise.

The four-cylinder engine, though willing, drinks deeply to muscle this 2300kg-plus beast of a wagon around.

To see how the Audi Q7 stacks up against its rivals, use ourcomparison tool

How does the Audi Q7 drive?

The Q7, a veritable palace on wheels, demands an engine that roars with equal opulence. Sadly, the 2.0-litre turbo-four feels like a butler serving caviar on a paper plate.

The engine isn’t a brute, roaring for attention. It’s a refined heart, beating smoothly and quietly, almost disappearing into the background. Yet, don’t mistake its politeness for weakness. It moves this SUV with surprising eagerness, proving that understated power can be just as compelling.

The four-cylinder engine, however, feels like it’s constantly playing catch-up, particularly when launching from a standstill. While its peak power rivals the Q7’s V6 offerings, it’s hamstrung by a torque deficit. It’s a whopping 130 Nm short compared to even theleastpowerful of the Q7’s V6 engines.

However, the X5’s driving experience lacks a certain robust, buttery smoothness – a characteristic only found in its more expensive siblings. While every X5 model except the M60i and M Competition boasts a six-cylinder engine, even the entry-level GLE counters with torquey four-cylinder diesels, leaving this version feeling slightly underpowered in comparison.

Even with minor drawbacks, the car’s overall performance shines. The transmission, a paragon of responsiveness, offers seamless shifts, and its torque converter design makes navigating stop-and-go traffic a breeze.

Even without the SQ7’s sporty pedigree, the Q7’s driving dynamics are a revelation. Forget mundane commutes; this car dances. It tackled every twist and turn we dared to throw its way with surprising agility and grace. Commuter car? Perhaps. But a surprisingly competent and engaging one at that.

Adaptive air suspension comes standard, morphing its character with each drive mode selected. "Normal" leans towards firm, yet the Q7’s base model, with its generous tire sidewalls, manages to absorb bumps with surprising grace.

Trading the electric hum of the Q6 e-tron for the Q7’s familiar growl was a revelation. One moment we were gliding, albeit stiffly, in Audi’s EV future, the next, luxuriating in the Q7’s plush embrace. It’s not a typical comparison – EV versus traditional SUV – but after the e-tron’s unforgiving ride, the Q7 felt like sinking into a cloud. A welcome respite, indeed.

"Imagine a daily commute where comfort reigns supreme, effortlessly transitioning into an open-road adventure. Should the asphalt ribbon ahead dare to coil and twist, simply unleash ‘Dynamic’ mode – instantly sculpting the suspension to conquer every curve with unwavering poise."

The suspension tightens its grip, the steering gains newfound heft. The car now dances through curves, a low-slung predator defying its size with uncanny agility and minimal roll.

Forget carving corners like a sports car – the Q7 surprises. Think of it as a velvet hammer on winding roads. The only fly in the ointment? Those plump tires, bless their comfort-giving souls, lean and groan like a tipsy sailor when the road gets twisty, translating into a bit of a cabin sway.

However, toss it a curve laced with mid-corner bumps, and the Q7 fidgets, a subtle shimmy most noticeable in tighter turns when you’re pushing the pace. Hardly a deal-breaker – physics, after all – and on open freeways and winding country roads, it’s back to feeling glued to the tarmac.

The steering, while competent enough for threading through urban jungles and tackling twisty lanes, whispers instead of shouts. At higher speeds, it’s a numb handshake where a firm connection is desired. Effortless lightness is a luxury hallmark, true, but rivals offer a more visceral conversation between driver and road, a dialogue the Q7 only hints at.

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The Q7 isn’t just a car; it’s a masterclass in refinement. Even in its base trim, it’s armed to the teeth with safety tech, seamlessly integrated and dependable enough to make you forget it’s even there – until you need it.

Lane-keep assist and speed limit warnings? Flawless. Adaptive cruise and lane-centering on the highway? Nailed it. The controls? Ah, here’s where it gets interesting. Forget fancy touchscreens; you’re getting a classic stalk on the steering column. It might feel like a blast from the past, but trust us, the learning curve is practically nonexistent. In minutes, you will intuitively master it.

The Q7 nearly earns a gold star, save for one persistent annoyance: its overzealous start/stop system. Typical of the VW family, it’s trigger-happy, cutting the engine a breath before you actually halt. The result? A juddering pre-stop silence that feels less eco-conscious and more like an automotive hiccup.

Imagine the engine sputtering to a halt, not with a gentle sigh, but a rude jolt that throws you forward in your seat. Like a stubborn beast refusing to be tamed, the transmission and engine remain stubbornly locked together, fighting the momentum of the still-rolling wheels. It’s a stark contrast to the seamless ballet of a dual-clutch system. Yet, redemption arrives quickly: a mere tap of the accelerator and the engine roars back to life. And thankfully, with a simple button press, you can silence this unruly stop/start feature altogether.

To see how the Audi Q7 stacks up against its rivals, use ourcomparison tool

What do you get?

Four variants are offered across two distinct trim levels.

2025 Audi Q7 TFSI + TDI equipment highlights:

• 20-inch alloy wheels
• Adaptive air suspension
• Matrix LED headlights
• Electric tailgate incl. gesture control
• 7 seats incl. electric 3rd row
• Leather-appointed upholstery
• Heated front seats
• 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• DAB digital radio
• Satellite navigation
• Audi connect plus
• 12.3-inch digital instrument display
• Wireless phone charger
• Tri-zone climate control
• Interior ambient lighting

Q7 TDI + TFSI S line add:

• 21-inch alloy wheels
• S line exterior package
• Privacy glass
• Panoramic sunroof
• Quad-zone climate control
• Colour ambient interior lighting
• Electric steering column adjust
• Bang & Olufsen 3D premium sound system
• Head-up display
• Valcona leather upholstery – S embossed
• S line interior package

• Sport seats
• Leather 3-spoke sport steering wheel
• Paddle shifters
• Perforated leather – steering wheel, gear selector
• Inlays in brushed aluminium
• Illuminated aluminium door sills – S logo
• Headliner in black cloth
• Door mats front, rear with contrast stitching

To see how the Audi Q7 stacks up against its rivals, use ourcomparison tool

Options

A number of packages and single-item options are available.

Premium Package: $3900 (TFSI 185kW + TDI 170kW)

• 21-inch alloy wheels
• Quad-zone climate control
• Black exterior styling
• Colour ambient interior lighting

Luxury Seat Package: $4200 (TDI 210kW + TFSI 250kW)

• S sports seats with integrated headrest
• Valcona leather with diamond stitching
• Ventilated front seats
• Heated rear outboard seats

Premium Plus Package: $5500(TDI 210kW + TFSI 250kW)

• 22-inch alloy wheels
• Adaptive air suspension – sport
• Dynamic all-wheel steering
• Black exterior styling
• Power-assisted door closure

To see how the Audi Q7 stacks up against its rivals, use ourcomparison tool

Is the Audi Q7 safe?

Drive with confidence knowing the Audi Q7 earned a coveted five-star ANCAP safety rating (based on 2019 Euro NCAP testing). This top-tier safety certification provides peace of mind for you and your passengers until its expiration in December 2025.

| Category | Audi Q7 | | — | — | |Adult occupant protection| 92 per cent | |Child occupant protection| 87 per cent | |Vulnerable road user protection| 71 per cent | |Safety assist| 71 per cent |

Standard safety equipment includes:

• 8 airbags
• Adaptive drive assist

• Adaptive cruise control incl. stop/go
• Distance indicator
• Lane guidance assist – centring
• Traffic jam assist

• Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)

• Forward, Reverse
• Pedestrian assist – up to 85km/h
• Vehicle to vehicle – up to 250km/h

• Blind-spot assist
• Driver attention monitoring
• Exit warning system
• Lane assist
• Park assist
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Surround-view camera
• Traffic jam assist
• Traffic sign recognition
• Tyre pressure loss indicator

To see how the Audi Q7 stacks up against its rivals, use ourcomparison tool

How much does the Audi Q7 cost to run?

Drive with confidence, knowing your Audi Q7 is shielded by a comprehensive five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty. Forget rigid schedules, your Q7 only requires servicing every 12 months or 15,000km – prioritizing your journey, not your garage.

| Servicing and Warranty | Audi Q7 45 TFSI quattro | | — | — | |Warranty| 5 years, unlimited kilometres | |Roadside assistance| 5 years | |Service intervals| 12 months or 15,000km | |Capped-price servicing| 5-year service plan | |Total capped-price service cost| $3820 |

For ultimate peace of mind, equip your Audi with the Advantage Package for $4370. Imagine two extra years of unlimited-kilometre warranty, knowing you’re covered no matter how far you roam. Plus, enjoy two complimentary scheduled services and two years of roadside assistance, ensuring smooth journeys whether you choose petrol or diesel. It’s comprehensive protection and premium care, priced the same for both fuel options.

The GLE boasts generous 25,000km service intervals, a clear advantage. However, brace yourself: Mercedes-Benz’s five-year service plan demands a staggering $8055. By contrast, the BMW X5’s equivalent plan offers significant savings at a mere $3275.

To see how the Audi Q7 stacks up against its rivals, use ourcomparison tool

childcareman.xyz’s Take on the Audi Q7 TFSI 185kW quattro

The Q7 remains a great way to get into a large luxury SUV, especially if European brands are your jam.

"While both face stiff competition from their German brethren, only the Q7 can claim genuine European roots – albeit Slovakian ones. The others, assembled stateside, somehow feel less authentically German when you’re spending six figures."

But here’s the kicker: The Q7 undercuts both the X5 and GLE on price. Suddenly, it’s not just another luxury SUV, it’s a smart one. And the magic truly begins the moment you sink into that impeccably crafted, premium cabin.

Behind the wheel, the Q7 shrugs off its mild-mannered Audi facade and reveals a surprisingly assertive driving experience. Dismiss this SUV at your peril. While the turbo-four is capable, it’s the velvety V6 engines that truly unlock the Q7’s potential, transforming it from competent hauler to genuinely enjoyable machine.

Forget ‘adequate.’ Even in its simplest form, the Q7 redefines family SUV excellence. It’s a masterclass in design and capability, leaving a lasting impression and, crucially, sparing your bank balance.

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