Audi Q7

A 3.0-litre V6 TFSI petrol engine powers the Audi Q7, combining refinement with aggression. The engine churns out 335 bhp of power and 500 Nm of torque, propelling the heavy SUV from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.6 seconds. This is a figure that is genuinely impressive for a family vehicle. The 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission accompanying the engine provides butter-smooth city riding and instant acceleration on long highways. Power is sent to all four wheels via Audi's legendary Quattro system, which also delivers immense grip over wet surfaces.

The Audi Q7 also has an adaptive air suspension system that handles Indian roads with ease, while isolating passengers from potholes and minimising body roll during cornering with the help of the 'Dynamic Mode'.

The Audi Q7's variants offer different luxury and tech features rather than introducing any drastic mechanical changes.

Premium Plus

As the entry-level trim, the Premium Plus is surprisingly feature-rich. It has a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, an electric steering option, and a dual-screen MMI setup. It is for buyers who want the Q7 experience without paying more for the niche tech.

Technology

Audi brings the "wow" factor to its top-spec variant. This trim has Matrix LED headlamps, dynamic turn indicators, a 19-speaker, Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system, Park Assist Plus, a 360-degree camera, and the fully digital Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus.

Signature/Bold Editions

Rather than prioritising tech features, these limited editions offer cosmetic exclusivity, a Black Styling Package, unique alloy wheels, and special interior inlays for those who want a sportier look to their car. The Signature Edition also has a built-in Espresso Mobile Coffee system.

Since the Audi Q7 is a 2-tonne petrol SUV, potential buyers and existing owners hardly care about its fuel efficiency. Still, it returns acceptable figures for its class due to its 48V mild-hybrid system.

• Claimed Mileage: The ARAI-certified figure for the Audi Q7 is approximately 11.21 kmpl.

• Real-World Usage: In city traffic, the mileage is lower, pushing between 6 and 8 kmpl. However, it registers the ARAI-claimed mileage on highway rides, reaching up to 10-11 kmpl.

The Audi Q7 has a unique design; it is sophisticated rather than flashy. The massive octagonal Singleframe grille occupies its front profile, flanked by the sleek Matrix LED headlamps. The side has a long roofline to accommodate the third row, while the strong shoulder line and 19-inch (or 20-inch in higher trims) alloy wheel add an overall muscular vibe to the car. As for the rear design, it features slim LED taillights connected by a chrome strip, and a dual-exhaust system integrated into the bumper that keeps the vehicle's look sporty as well.

The Audi Q7's interior is a tech-rich cabin with several state-of-the-art features. The twin-touch MMI response system, comprising a 10.1-inch upper screen for infotainment and an 8.6-inch lower screen for climate control, dominates the cabin. The Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster, meanwhile, provides clarity and customisability, and it remains one of the most useful applications for first-time Q7 owners.

The front seats of this vehicle are large and electrically adjustable. The second row is spacious too, providing reclining backrests and the 4-zone climate control for individual comfort. And finally, the third row is the Audi Q7's ace card; even though it is for children or small adults, this flexibility is still something that competitors like the BMW X5 cannot provide.

The German automotive manufacturer has built their Audi Q7 with extensive active safety systems.

• Standard Safety: All variants of the Q7 come with 8 airbags, ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and additional ISOFIX child seat mounts.

• Advanced Features: The Technology trim, in particular, offers Lane Departure Warning and Park Assist Plus. The latter can autonomously steer the car into parking spots. Meanwhile, the 360-degree camera offers a high-resolution feed for manual parking.

• Crash Rating: All Audi Q7 models hold 5-star Euro NCAP ratings, reassuring buyers of their structural integrity.

There are some fierce competitors to the Audi Q7 under the mid-to-full-size luxury SUV segment.

BMW X5: This car is a popular choice for drivers. It offers sharper handling and even comes with a diesel engine option. However, it is a 5-seater in India and has a much higher price tag.

Mercedes-Benz GLE: The Mercedes-Benz GLE is the comfort king with plusher seats and a long-wheelbase (LWB) variant that offers more second-row legroom than the Q7. But the former lacks a third row, and the latter feels much softer to drive.

Volvo XC90: The XC90 is the safest alternative to the Audi Q7 since it is the only other proper 7-seater. However, even though it offers hybrid efficiency and excellent safety tech, it still feels older and less powerful compared to the Q7.

Like every other car, the Audi Q7 has some disadvantages alongside its perks.

The Audi Q7 is for buyers who want a family car that retains its SUV characteristics without sacrificing driving dynamics. The Q7 also offers two extra seats with its three-row setup, a feature that similarly-priced or pricier models like the X5 cannot offer. It offers the best of both worlds: an SUV for chauffeur-driven comfort, and a high-performance car for cruising through the highways.

The Audi Q7 is the ideal luxury SUV that doesn't compromise on driving dynamics. If you have a large family and occasionally need those extra two seats, the Q7 solves a problem that the X5 and GLE cannot. It offers a "best-of-both-worlds" scenario: a comfortable chauffeur-driven experience during the week and an engaging, Quattro-powered drive on the weekend. If you prefer a diesel engine and prioritise ride comfort and build quality, the Audi Q7 is one of the most complete packages available in the Indian luxury car market.

Waiting period for the new Audi Q7, pushing your plan of buying a new car by months?

Don’t worry. Visit Cars24 and explore a curated range of quality-checked used Audi Q7 and experience the joy of driving without the wait. Filter by your preferred budget, fuel or transmission requirements and unlock substantial savings today!