2022 Audi Q7 Review: Continues To Impress
There are few cars in the midsize luxury SUV class that do it better than the Audi Q7. This SUV has been around since 2006, and the latest iteration is more luxurious and capable than ever. For 2022, Audi Q7 models are powered by two engine options: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and a more powerful turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder producing 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to all four wheels via an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. The Q7 offers excellent styling inside and out despite not having as much flair as some competitors. Interior space is adequate, but those in the third row will have a hard time squeezing in, and tech and safety levels are up there with the best of them. The 2022 Audi Q7 starts off at $55,800 and goes up against the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE.
2022 Q7 Exterior
Dimensions
Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
199.3 in | 117.9 in | 68.5 in | 77.6 in | 66.1 in | 66.6 in | 4,806.0 lbs |
2022 Q7 Performance
Handling and Driving Impressions
The 2021 Q7 was designed to gobble up miles in supreme comfort, and it delivers on that promise. The 45 TFSI comes equipped with five-link front and rear independent suspension and feels composed and well sprung in most scenarios. Everything from small to large mid-corner bumps are handled well, although the weight of the car makes itself known when pushing too hard, which leads to some understeer, but only at the very limit. Send this SUV through a set of twisties, and you'll be pleasantly surprised at how well it handles itself, and it can even be fun if you choose the right line and speed. The adaptive air suspension that used to be available on the Premium Plus with the 3.0-liter engine is no longer - it's standard on the Prestige though. This suspension setup is perfect for those who are planning on hitting the highway for longer trips; it feels like you're floating on a cloud, and on winding roads, it still offers good feedback. The steering feel is good for a car of this size, and brake pedal feel is also good, with a predictable biting point. All in all, the Q7 handles beautifully and is more comfortable on the road than the BMW X5.
2022 Q7 Interior
2022 Q7 Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance |
---|---|---|---|
4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 4 Years / 50,000 Miles | 12 Years / Unlimited Miles | 4 Years / Unlimited Miles |
US NHTSA Crash Test Result
Rollover Rating |
---|
4/5 |
Verdict: Is the 2022 Audi Q7 A Good SUV?
The Audi Q7 car has always been a highly competitive model in the midsize luxury SUV segment and for good reason: it offers a stylish and luxurious interior and exterior along with solid performance at a price that is competitive. The exterior might be more restrained than, say, the BMW X5, but it is handsome in its own way, and the same can be said for the interior, which is less dramatic than the Mercedes-Benz equivalent, the GLE. On the road, the new Audi Q7 truly shines with a relaxed but confident ride and the ability to impress in the corners. Power from both engines is impressive, and even in base form, most will find the power to be sufficient. The base model packs a fair amount of standard features, but the Prestige trim is the one to go for if you're after a proper premium experience. Safety is on par with the competition.
2022 Audi Q7 Comparisons
2022 Audi Q7 vs Audi Q8
The Audi Q8 is classified as a luxury crossover SUV coupe and slots in above the Q7 in terms of price, with the biggest difference being the Q8's unique styling. The Q8 is powered exclusively by the 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine that produces 335 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to all four wheels via the same eight-speed transmission. The Q8 will manage the same 18/23/20 mpg. On the road, the Q8 is the sharper driving SUV and should appeal to those who like a bit of fun. The Q7 is the larger vehicle with an overall length of 199.3 compared to the 196.6 inches in the Q8. The larger exterior size of the Q7 does not necessarily translate into tons more interior space. The lower seating position in the Q8 feels more sporty, but the Q7 offers more headroom in the first two rows, but the Q7 offers more trunk and cargo space with its third-row bench folded. These cars share most of their tech and safety features, so that levels the playing field. If its style and driving dynamics you're after, the Q8 should be the one to go for.
2022 Audi Q7 vs BMW X5
The BMW X5 has been around for over two decades and has become one of the most popular vehicles in its class. There's a good reason for that: it is fun to drive, practical, and lavishly appointed with tech and safety features. The 2022 X5 comes with your choice of turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine or a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 producing 523 hp. Power is sent to the rear or all fours via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Fuel consumption for the 3.0-liter X5 is pegged at 21/26/23 mpg in RWD guise, obliterating the Q7's effort. The BMW is excellent at both relaxed cruising and cornering, and in M50i configuration, drives like a large sports car thanks to stronger brakes, sportier suspension, and an upgraded differential. The interior of the X5 is seriously plush, and we prefer the layout and design of the BMW, but it doesn't offer as much interior space, and trunk space is also lower when the Audi's third row is folded. In terms of tech and safety, these cars are closely matched, especially in base trim, but the Audi undercuts the BMW in base trim by $3,600. As an SUV, the Q7 does it better.