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2020 Audi Q7 – First Drive

Usually a mid-cycle refresh updates a couple of things and that’s that. But the Q7 goes a bit further with their second-generation facelift.

The Q7 is Audi’s luxury three-row SUV that competes with the likes of the Volvo XC90, Mercedes Benz GLS, Lexus GX, and Lincoln Aviator.

The big change on the Q7 in regard to driving is the powertrain options. Instead of the previous supercharger, Audi’s using a 3.0L V6 that’s turbocharged (Graphic: 335 hp/369 lb ft torque). They moved to this block because it fits into a lot of different packaging and can accommodate a 48-volt motor. So, it makes sense.

That’s the engine we’re testing today and it’s a good package with the 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. It’s smooth and you really don’t feel the shifts at all, and it hauls the 7-passenger Q7 around well. If you need extra acceleration, then pulling back on the paddles has been required to pull the weight of this car.

There’s also a 2.0L 4-cyl option that makes less horsepower (Graphic: 248 hp/273 lb ft torque). Not as powerful but has a 0-60 that’s sub 7 seconds. We’re not sure how that one manages with the Q7’s almost 4,800 pounds, but our guess is you feel that reduction in oomph.

The Q7 comes in Premium and Premium Plus trim levels with the highest Prestige trim level available on the V6 only.

Because Audi you know that means Quattro with power at all four wheels. The Q7 does come with an optional air-suspension which offers a very comfortable ride and some additional ground clearance if you need it.

Dynamically when driving the ride is stable meaning not a lot of body roll around turns. There are different drive settings. Comfort is as advertised but on undulating roads can tend to the floaty side of things, but Dynamic firms that up a bit and as well as amplifying exhaust sounds. In Individual mode, you can adjust settings as you prefer.

There’s also an all-wheel steering option. While this tester doesn’t have it, it’s pretty cool. At low speeds that feature improves the turning radius in big vehicles like this, helping with maneuverability and at high speeds gives you more stability and control. I kind of wish we had that in this car.

The driving pedals are staggered a little more than I’d like, especially in an SUV, the brake pedal feels a little high. But speaking of those brakes, they’re substantial and feel solid with an even progressive feel.

We couldn’t talk about the driving experience in an Audi without discussing the interior. There’s a lot in here that’s now shared with Audi’s A8. The MMI system is now touch activated and has haptic feedback.

What used to be one screen is now two, the top 10.1-inch for infotainment and the bottom screen takes care of cabin controls like climate and your seat massagers. Some cool new features on this, aside from the high res virtual cockpit, there are some great driver’s assist systems. In addition to the host of safety features there’s a Traffic assist that can tell you when lights are changing, and what speed you need to go to hit the greens. Right now that’s available in 30 cities at over 10,000 intersections.

Ergonomically, the Q7 is highly adjustable so it fits a lot of different sized drivers. And of course you can get them heated, ventilated or massaging depending on trim and package upgrades. The seats are supportive and comfortable. These would make great road trip seats.

The Q7 has Adaptive Cruise Control that’s a level 2 system autonomous system. Audi’s is one of my favorites on the market. Follow distance on the car in front of you is adjustable and braking when that car slows down is insanely smooth. Audi also employs what they call Active Lane Assist, which sounds like it might help you change lanes like the in a Mercedes or Tesla, but it doesn’t, this is more of a lane keeping assist to keep you from veering outside the line.

On some cars that system is very jerky, not so on Audis. It keeps you in the lanes and does it nice and smoothly. But again, always keep your hands on the wheel. There’s nothing driving for you yet!

Fuel economy numbers are something to note with this refresh 2019 Q7 V6 19 city/25 hwy/21 combined mpg; 2020 Q7 17 city/21 hwy/18 combined mpg because they’re down significantly from the previous model. Just to note, only numbers on the V6 are currently available. Audi contends this change is due to the Q7’s added tech, which increased its weight therefore, putting it in a higher EPA evaluation class and changing the criteria by which it’s tested. We contend this might be a purchasing turn off for some consumers, especially when they remember both engines require premium gas.

Pricing on the Q7 starts at $55,775 including destination $55,775 for the 4-cylinder base model. For the V6 you’re looking at an entry level cost closer to $62 grand.

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