Key Points
- The Audi Q7 is a luxurious three-row SUV that received a light refresh for the 2025 model year.
- Cars.com editors enjoyed the Q7 for its smooth powertrain, luxurious interior, downloadable apps, towing capacity and comfortable ride.
- However, editors weren’t fond of the Q7’s power and fuel efficiency, third-row space and lack of affordability.
The Audi Q7 is a family-friendly three-row SUV that delivers a lot of what luxury buyers are looking for even though it hasn’t been redesigned since the 2017 model year. A light freshening for 2025 brought styling updates and new interior trim choices along with minor tech updates to help compete with newer designs.
Related: 2025 Audi Q7 Review: What’s German for ‘Goldilocks Principle’?
Despite its age, the Q7 remains an appealing choice that’s every bit as luxurious as alternatives such as the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE. It also delivers solid value even with a high price that can quickly go up with options. But unlike the GLE, you don’t have to pay extra for a third-row seat with the Q7, and you can’t get one at all with the X5. The Q7 continues for 2026 with minor changes to options and packages.
Cars.com Road Test Editor Brian Normile drove an updated Q7 in the top Prestige trim to see how its aging design compares to alternatives. Tap the link above to read all the details in his expert review, or read on for a quicker look at five things we like about the 2025 Audi Q7 and three things we do not.
What Do We Like About the 2025 Audi Q7?
1. Smooth Like Butta
The optional turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 in our test vehicle isn’t as powerful as comparable engines in either the X5 or GLE450, but it has more than enough grunt to hustle this hefty SUV up to speed. With 335 horsepower and 369 pounds-feet of torque, the Q7 accelerates smoothly and quickly after slight turbo lag from a stop, and the eight-speed automatic transmission is well matched with the engine. All-wheel drive comes standard. For drivers needing a bit more punch, Audi offers the sporty SQ7, which we cover separately in our Research section on Cars.com.
2. Quiet Cruiser
The Q7 is ideally suited for long-distance cruising, especially with the adaptive air suspension included with the Prestige Package. Body motions are kept in check, and the ride remains comfortable and controlled over all kinds of road imperfections. Available four-wheel steering adds to a nimble feel, especially in tight maneuvers. Thanks in part to dual-pane glass, the cabin is also remarkably quiet when underway.
3. Inside Scoop
The interior is as well finished and luxurious as expected in an Audi, with a more traditional look that has an appeal not always found with newer, more tech-heavy designs. Materials quality and construction are top notch, and everything looks and feels good to the touch. The infotainment system uses a 10.1-inch touchscreen running the latest version of Audi’s MMI interface. While relatively small by today’s standards, the screen is easy to master. A separate touch panel handles climate controls.
4. Alternative App Access
The 2025 update brought the ability to download apps (such as Spotify and Amazon Music) directly through Audi’s MMI infotainment interface as an alternative to leveraging your smartphone for the same. That may add convenience for some, though it comes at the cost of another monthly subscription. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are still standard for those who prefer to rely on their phones.
5. Towing Champ
When equipped with the V-6 and an optional towing package, the 2025 Audi Q7 is rated to tow up to 7,700 pounds, which is impressive whether many buyers will take advantage of it or not. A brake controller is advisable for towing that kind of weight, and while one isn’t listed as standard or optional equipment, Audi does offer one through its accessory catalog.
Read More About the Audi Q7 on Cars.com:
- How Much Is the 2026 Audi Q7?
- Fresh Face, Apps Aplenty: 2025 Audi Q7 Priced from $61,695
- These Cars Do Well in Crash Tests for 2025, According to IIHS
- Research the Audi Q7
- Find Your Next Car
What Do We Dislike About the 2025 Audi Q7?
1. Powertrain Shortcomings
The Q7’s powertrain gets the job done, but it lacks both the horsepower and efficiency of newer competitors. The BMW X5 xDrive40i handily outguns the Q7 with 375 hp and 398 pounds-feet of torque, yet it returns an EPA estimated 23/27/25 mpg city/highway/combined compared to just 18/23/20 mpg for the Audi. The difference in fuel economy is less notable with the AWD Mercedes-Benz GLE450 and its 19/25/21 mpg, but the GLE also features a powertrain good for 375 hp.
2. Third Row
A third row of seating takes priority for some buyers, and the Q7 stands out by making a third row standard in a category where one is not often found. That said, passengers will find the accommodations back there are less luxurious and a lot less roomy than in the first two rows. Access is also difficult, involving multiple levers and no power assist to move the second-row seats out of the way. It all adds up to a third row best suited for kids or occasional use.
3. Potentially Pricey Proposition
Our loaded 2025 Q7 in the Prestige trim checked in with a sticker price of $88,790 (including destination), a lofty price but not out of line with its German competitors. Still, that price included about $27,000 in options, with the Prestige Package accounting for a sizable $12,100. But its combination of comfort, refinement and luxurious appointments combined with a standard third row and AWD make the Q7 an appealing choice despite its age.
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