2019 Audi Q7 Review

The Audi Q7 is a relative latecomer to the SUV market despite Audi's long legacy of all-wheel-drive cars. The Q7, first launched in 2005 has become a favorite in the midsize luxury SUV market, and for good reason; the general consensus from the motoring sphere is that the Q7 does everything well. It's comfortable, practical, safe and offers good performance in a class where certain categories are often compromised in favor of power. For 2019, Audi offers the Q7 with a turbocharged four-cylinder and supercharged V6 engine. The interior has a premium feel, and the infotainment system is easy to use; it also now features standard navigation across the range. The Q7 received a full redesign in 2017, but Audi has added a number of features to help it keep up with the likes of the BMW X5, the Volvo XC90, and even the Acura MDX.

What's the Price of the 2019 Audi Q7?

The 2019 Q7 starts at an MSRP of $53,550 for the base-line 2.0T Premium. The 3.0T Premium will set you back $59,950. For the mid-range Premium Plus, a starting price of $56,900 for the 2.0T can be expected, which climbs to $63,300 to equip the bigger 3.0T engine. The top-spec Prestige will set you back $68,700. All prices exclude a $995 destination fee.

In comparison, the BMW X5 has a basic MSRP of $61,695 for the entry-level model, with the Volvo XC90 being a more affordable option at $48,195 entry-spec and $62,350 for their top of the line trim.

Handling and Driving Impressions

The 2019 Audi Q7 shines out on the road by offering first-class road-holding and handling. Like many of its siblings, the Q7 feels lighter than its curb weight would suggest. Steering is responsive for a mid-size SUV and thanks to that quattro system, handling can be described as inspiring of confidence and bordering on pleasurable. One thing worth noting is how quiet the Q7 is on the road; road noise is almost nonexistent and really adds to the silky-smooth ride and luxurious feeling. The optional adaptive air suspension takes things to a whole other level and turns the Q7 into one of the most comfortable cars to drive. Period. Put simply, the Q7 offers class-leading road-holding characteristics and strikes a superb balance between comfort and dynamic handling, which not many SUVs of its ilk can lay claim to.

Verdict: Is the 2019 Audi Q7 A Good SUV?

The 2019 Audi Q7 is on par with most rivals, and in some areas - much better. The exterior is a subjective topic, but the 2019 Q7 manages to look fresh thanks to some updated wheel designs and LED headlights and a timeless (albeit safe) design. The interior is class-leading in terms of the generous use of quality materials and excellent fit and finish. It drives better than most cars on the road as well, and with the optional air suspension fitted, it is almost unbeatable when it comes to handling and smoothing out road textures. Both engine choices offer good performance but the V6 should be your first choice; it turns the Q7 into a sports-car-SUV-hybrid of sorts. Additionally, it uses the same amount of fuel as the 2.0-liter powerplant. Cargo space and interior room isn't the best in class but is competitive, adequate and allows for comfort to remain a priority. The power-folding third-row seats make access to extra cargo space easy and hassle-free, and tethering car-seats is a breeze. The 2019 Q7 offers good value for money if you avoid the more expensive options.

What Audi Q7 Model Should I Buy?

The 2019 Audi Q7 is a good value proposition if you're in the market for a midsize luxury SUV. It offers high levels of luxury, safety, and performance and in some cases feels like it belongs in a higher price bracket. If you're looking for the best value for money, the 3.0T Premium Plus should be your first choice. For an extra $3,350 over the price of the entry-level model 3.0T Premium, you get a vastly improved infotainment system, added safety technology and a number of small touches that result in a car that is good at almost everything it does. For the price, nothing else in its class can come close. We'd avoid the 2.0T engine, regardless of the trim chosen, as for the small increase in price, the V6 proffers better performance with no compromise in fuel economy.

2019 Audi Q7 Comparisons

2019 Audi Q7 vs BMW X5

Although the base model BMW X5 is a good $6,000 dollars more than that of the Audi Q7, it is a worthy comparison by virtue of the fact that both German powerhouses offer strong performance, luxurious cabins, and up-to-date onboard technology in an SUV setup. The BMW offers a more powerful engine and better performance figures, as well as gas mileage that is one mile per gallon more impressive than what the Audi Q7 manages in most driving conditions. However, the X5 in either of its configurations only seats five passengers as standard and third-row seating, while optional, is even more cramped than what the Q7 offers. Although the X5 boasts a total redesign for 2019, the Q7 remains the better choice in terms of value-for-money features, space, and practicality.

2019 Audi Q7 vs Volvo XC90

With the rebirth of exciting Volvo designs in the last few years, the XC90 makes a compelling case for itself as a premium SUV. Bold, attractive design outshines the almost bland look of the Q7, and with a superior, high-quality interior, it really presents as a worthy opponent for the Q7. The infotainment system on the Volvo has been found wanting by some buyers, with the MMI technology of the Q7 preferable in terms of ease-of-use and intuitiveness. Although both vehicles have similar engine performance figures (the Volvo at 250 hp over the 248 hp of the Q7 in base-model comparison), the Volvo does produce much better fuel economy: 21/29/24 mpg as opposed to the 19/25/21 mpg of the Audi. Cargo space is also substantially more impressive in the Volvo. Still, when it comes right down to the basics of driving pleasure, it is the Audi that stands out with its superior handling and more sophisticated ride comfort.