2018 Audi Q7 SUV Crossover Review & Ratings

Performance

The 2018 Audi Q7 has two powertrains available for buyers. The Premium and Premium Plus trims are equipped with the 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine. The unit produces 252 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. The other used by the Prestige trim is the 3.0-liter supercharged V6. It has an output of 333 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. It should be noted that buyers of the lower trims can opt for this power unit also. The SUV uses an all-wheel drive system. Then, the power is distributed via an eight-speed automatic transmission with manual mode. We took the Prestige for a spin, and we found out that its 3.0-liter V6 can easily reach 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. That's definitely fast for a three-row SUV. The handling of the SUV was excellent even in sharp corners. Maneuvering at low speeds is improved by its Counter Steering feature. On the other hand, the Parallel Steering feature makes cornering and lane changes easier at high speeds. The different drive modes of the Q7 such as the Comfort, Auto, Dynamic and Offroad allow the driver to personalize its elements like body control, steering position, long distance comfort, agility and cushioning.

Technology

The base trim of the Audi Q7, which is the Premium, is carrying heated eight-way power adjustable front seats, three-zone climate control, keyless entry, keyless start, Audi pre sense, xenon headlamps with LED DRLs, power folding third row, MMI user interface with 7-inch central display, Bluetooth connectivity, two USB ports, rearview cam, parking sensor and 10-speaker audio system. Optional for the Premium trim is the Cold Weather package with heated rear seats and heated steering wheel. There's the MMI Navigation Plus too that has Google Voice Search, smartphone integration and enhanced connectivity. Taking the Premium Plus adds a 3D Bose sound system, MMI Navigation with voice control, Audi side assist with more advanced pre sense, electric tilt/telescoping steering column, heated steering wheel, auto-dimming interior mirrors, LED interior package. It can be upgraded to get access to some of the tech found in the Prestige trim like the Driver Assistance package, Vision package, Warm Weather package and Ventilation package. The Prestige is the crème de la crème of the range. It features all the goodies found in the Premium Plus with the addition of Vision package, Warm Weather package, virtual cockpit with head-up display, BOSE 3D 19-speaker sound system, and power-closing doors. It can be fitted with the Adaptive Chassis package as well that offers four-wheel steering and adaptive air suspension. Moreover, it is available with a night-vision system and high-end Bang & Olufsen sound system.

Safety

The IIHS gave the 2018 Audi Q7 -Good- scores in terms of Crashworthiness as well as in Crash Avoidance and Mitigation. The evaluating body also praised the ease of use of the vehicle's child seat anchors. However, the headlamps of its low trims were given -Moderate- score. The tech found within the Audi Q7 is very effective in mitigating collisions with other vehicles and even pedestrians. Its sensors and camera aid significantly in improving visibility or in mitigating blind spots. Furthermore, the voice control feature the auto's controls helps in reducing distraction on the part of the driver.

Appearance

The Audi Q7 is classified as a luxury crossover in the midsize category. It has a 199-inch length, 77-inch width, 68-inch height and 117-inch wheelbase. Many might consider this quite large for a crossover, but is its marketed as such. After only undergoing a redesign in 2017, the Audi Q7 does not have any major updates in its appearance for its 2018 model. What makes the current generation of the SUV stand out from its predecessors is that it appears less bulky despite its big passenger capacity. The creases in its body have been reworked to give it a lower and less hulking appeal. The range starts with the Premium trim with all the basic features of the Q7, including a beautiful panoramic sunroof as a standard fit. The exterior of each trim is not that different from each other. The range-topping Prestige model only adds a new set of 20-inch 10-spoke-design wheels wrapped in run-flat tires, and that's about it.

Comfort

The 2018 Audi Q7 can hold up to eight adults in its cabin. That's seven passengers and the driver, thanks to its three-row seat layout. We felt very comfortable in the front and the mid-row seats. These can adjusted through sliding and reclining. The climate control of the vehicle gets the job of cooling its large interior quickly. Add to that the relaxing heated seats in front. However, filling the third-row seats with adults may make them feel cramped. It can be very inconvenient during long trips. The ride comfort of the Q7 is superb though, which is further improved by its Comfort mode. Its base suspension works well in making the ride smooth even when the road is bumpy. It almost feels like riding a luxury sedan. Moreover, you will enjoy bonding with the passengers because the Q7's interior is so quiet. It effectively insulates its cabin from road or wind noise.

Cargo

The cargo capacity of the Audi Q7 is smaller compared to its competitors. It can only hold 14.8 cu-ft to 71.6 cu-ft of cargo, which is below average for its class.