The current generation of Audi’s biggest crossover has been around for several years but it still looks pretty fresh in all aspects. Thanks to the last-year update, it now features better styling and comes with more tech goodies. That’s the main reason why the 2021 Audi Q7 isn’t coming with any particular change. There are some additions in terms of standard equipment, but most of the things remained the same even in this aspect.
All this means that you may count on a vehicle that offers a fine balance between sporty dynamic ride and solid family-hauling characteristics. Despite the size, this crossover is fun to drive and comes with three potent engines in the offer. At the same time, you may count on a long list of tech features, which has become Audi’s trademark in recent years. Given the lack of bigger changes, we didn’t see bigger changes under the hood either.
2021 Audi Q7 Redesign
As we’ve just mentioned, the base design remains unchanged. Simply, the last-year update has brought a couple of necessary changes and we are pretty sure that this model won’t get any particular changes before the next overhaul, which shouldn’t happen in the next couple of years.
The 2021 Audi Q7 rides on a familiar MLB platform and offers pretty sporty performances. The Q7 is large but also quite fun to drive. We like its engaging handling, which is perfectly combined with powerful engine options. In terms of the styling, we saw some revisions at the front last year, but the overall styling has remained largely the same. This may not be the prettiest model in the class, it’s actually far from that, but it looks decent enough to compete with key rivals like BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE, which are notably fresher vehicles.
Interior
Once again, there are no bigger changes to reports. The mid-size crossover received a refresh last year, which has brought a new dual-screen infotainment system, while the company’s famous Virtual Cockpit became standard. Thanks to all these amazing tech features, the cabin looks quite futuristic. At the same time, materials and build quality are at an impressive level too.
Besides exceptional quality, the level of comfort is at a high level too. With nearly 118 inches in wheelbase, the Q7 comes with three quite spacious rows of seats. Of course, the first two rows are generous in terms of legroom, while the third row is typical for the class. This means it works best for kids, though adults can enjoy shorter rides as well.
When it comes to the cargo area, you may count on about 14.2 cubic feet of space behind the third row, 35.7 cubic feet behind the second row, and a total of 69.6 cubic feet of the overall cargo volume. Those are below-average numbers for the class.
Features
We’ve already mentioned that there aren’t too many novelties for this model year. This refers to the list of standard equipment as well. There are some additions in terms of safety features, but things essentially remained the same. All models come standard with things like a tri-zone automatic climate control, panoramic sunroof, 10.1-inch upper touch screen, an 8.6-inch lower touch screen, Audi’s Virtual Cockpit, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, a navigation system, a Wi-Fi hot spot, a 10-speaker stereo, satellite radio, HD Radio, USB ports etc. In higher trim levels, you can also get goodies like quad-zone climate control, a 19-speaker surround-sound stereo, a 23-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo, and wireless device charging.
In terms of safety features, all models come standard with things like Audi Pre Sense Rear with blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert, Audi Side Assist, Front and rear parking sensors, Lane departure warning, a rearview camera, automatic high-beam headlights, Rain-sensing windshield wipers. Additionally, you can get goodies like adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, lane keep assist, night vision camera and more.
2021 Audi Q7 Engines
Things under the hood have remained the same as well. Base models are equipped with a familiar 2.0-liter turbo-four, which puts out around 248 horsepower. Those who are looking for something peppier can pick a new 3.0-liter turbocharged V6. This one is good for about 335 horsepower. Finally, there is the SQ7 model, which has been introduced last year and which comes with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, which puts out around 500 horsepower. Such power is enough to move this crossover from zero to sixty in just 4.3 seconds, according to the manufacturer.
All engines come in pair with 8-speed automatic transmission. While all three engines offer strong performances, they are also pretty thirsty. Even the base four-cylinder unit returns just around 19 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
2021 Audi Q7 Price and Competition
The 2021 Audi Q7 starts around 55.000 dollars. Key competitors are models like BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, Volvo XC90 etc.