The Audi Q7 three-row SUV entered its third generation for 2020 model year with a new addition to its family: the German automaker’s venerable S variant sporting a 4.0-liter V8 engine that generates 500 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of torque. With little changes between 2020 and 2021 other than package updates and additional standard safety features, the Q7 is still is reaping the benefits of the big transformation that came last year.

The Audi Q7 isn’t a big head-turner, but it does offer its own sense of presence in an elegantly understated way.  Audi

In addition to the expanded lineup, last year’s highlights included an upgraded turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system rated at 335 horsepower (a slight boost over 2019) and 369 pound-feet of torque, a lift of 44 pound-feet over the outgoing model. It also got an exterior redesign, with the most notable change being the vertical slat grille and streamlined tailgate aesthetic. The SQ7 sports a rear spoiler and quad exhaust, a distinct front bumper and exclusive 21-inch wheel design. Inside, Audi added its dual-screen MMI touch response infotainment system and 12.1-inch virtual cockpit display across the lineup.

There are three trims available for the Q7: Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige. The SQ7 offers Premium Plus and Prestige. The Premium and Premium Plus Q7 models come standard with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (45 TFSI) that delivers 248 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. The re-tuned V6 (55 TFSI) is an upgrade on Premium and Premium Plus and comes standard on the Prestige. The SQ7 is offered in Premium Plus and Prestige and both have the V8. All-wheel drive is standard across all variants as is an eight-speed transmission. 

Over the years the Q7 has benefited from an expansion of its configurations: from the mellow 45 TFSI ($54,950) to the capable 55 TFSI ($60,800) to the potent SQ7 ($85,000), there’s a flavor of Audi’s biggest SUV for every taste. While the entry level model is unassuming and mild-mannered, the 500 horsepower SQ7 dispatches eye-opening performance in low-key ease, making it a stealthy speed machine. It effectively packages V8 performance with S model design cues and seven-seat utility. 

Flush surfaces dominate the Q7’s interior and can combine elements like piano black and veneer surfaces. Audi

Perhaps more impressively, the top model’s adaptive air suspension manages to smooth out bumps while feeling connected to the road, striking a fine balance between ride quality and handling. Despite its 5,200-pound curb weight, steering is responsive and body roll is minimal (thanks to active roll technology and torque distribution), which enhances the drive experience and provides a surprising sense of control over such a large vehicle in turns and when driving at high speeds. For buyers that want to go fast after school drop off and between Costco runs, the SQ7 offers a dual personality that doesn’t require sacrificing their individual needs for a family-friendly appliance. 

The standard Q7 is no slouch in the “me” department, however. Though both powertrains are more introverted and understated, the Q7 comes with its own discreet superpowers. The 55 has its own version of adaptive air suspension and five ride height levels (Standard, Off Road, Lift, Dynamic and Loading) and available all-wheel steering so it’s handles like a “lite” version of the SQ7. Both the 45 and 55 can be equipped with a towing package that ups hauling capacity to 4,400 and 7,700 pounds, respectively. This adds extra utility for families that have toys to pull; roof rails also are standard for more cargo-carrying ability.

The interior experience from the driver’s seat is comfortable and high-end. The dual touchscreen setup—a 10.1-inch infotainment display atop an 8.6-inch screen that controls climate and vehicle settings—may frustrate those who prefer physical switches and buttons (a volume knob sits near the gearshift on the center console). Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the lineup and are ubiquitous enough to ease the pain of learning any new system. However, operation and menu structure of Audi’s native system is intuitive enough for those willing to adjust even if it’s from analog to digital. The virtual cockpit behind the wheel offers a replacement for traditional gauges and displays different information depending on preference. Most helpful is the navigation setting that keeps the driver easily situated. 

: In addition to a powerful V8 engine, the performance-oriented SQ7 has distinct styling cues like its 21-inch bi-color wheel design, S model front bumper and matrix-design headlamps.  Audi

The cabin is an otherwise finely finished and comfortable. Three-zone climate control is standard as is a 19-speaker Bose audio system (on all trims but Premium). The Prestige and SQ7 can opt for a Bang and Olufsen system with 23 speakers. Though the space borders on subdued, quality materials like available supple leather and Alcantara finishes counteract the soberness of the overall design. While its styling isn’t bold or expressive, there’s no shortage of well-thought-out design themes throughout, from geometrically harmonious character lines along its linear bodywork, to the sleek expanse of HVAC vents streamlined along its dashboard.

The third row offers 29 inches of legroom, which is a tighter squeeze for tall adults. The spacious Volvo XC90 has almost 32 inches of legroom in row three. The third row of Lexus’ stretched RX L is the stingiest in the category with only 23.5 inches of legroom. Behind the Q7’s third row is 14.2 cubic-feet of cargo space (why those roof racks will come in handy on road trips), which expands to 35.7 cubic-feet with the 60/40 power-folding seats down. By comparison, the XC90’s cargo area offers a more generous 21.8 cubic-feet with the rear seats up. The Q7’s figures are unimpressive and match the Mazda CX-9, known for its more conservative dimensions among three-row rivals. Most space is reserved for first- and second-row passengers who can easily stretch their legs.

Standard across the line are a handful of advanced driver-assistance safety features, including pre-sense basic, which initiates preventative safety measures like stabilization control or seat belt pre-tensioning if it detects a potential collision. New for 2021 is the inclusion of pre sense side and rear, which uses radar sensors to detect an impending collision from the front and side and initiates the brakes if needed. Other available safety tech includes lane keeping assistance (“active lane assist”), adaptive cruise control with stop and go, traffic sign recognition, night vision assistant and a 360-degree camera. A parking system with sensors in the front. And rear is standard.

The Q7’s proportions are balanced and clean, making it among the most visually harmonious— if uncontroversially styled— SUVs in the Volkswagen portfolio.  Audi

The Audi Q7 doesn’t quite excel in one particular arena (though the SQ7 is a compelling performer). However, the Q7’s Jack-of-all-trades tendencies are more a benefit than a liability: If you can get past the somewhat anodyne personality, there’s a lot of thoughtful design elements and engineering features that make the Audi Q7 an attractive choice for three-row SUV shoppers.