“Very solid vehicle. Has the correct balance of luxury, sound, and performance. It is very pleasurable to drive. The price point feels about right for the amount of options included. Very happy with this purchase.”
Audi Q7: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Audi Q7 is a three-row luxury SUV with seven seats and standard all-wheel drive. It is known for combining family-friendly space with a quiet cabin and more balanced, car-like handling than many larger SUVs.
The Q7 has consistently blended upscale comfort with the everyday usefulness of three rows and standard all-wheel drive. Its engines and technology have changed over time, but secure road manners and a calm cabin remain central to its character. It feels designed for family duty without driving like an oversized SUV.
Strengths
- Standard all-wheel drive has been a defining feature throughout the Q7’s history.
- Seven seats and a power-folding third row make it easy to switch between carrying people and cargo.
- The quiet cabin and balanced handling give it a more car-like feel than many large three-row SUVs.
- A hands-free power tailgate makes loading family gear less awkward.
- Properly equipped 2026 versions were rated to tow up to 7,700 pounds.
Who it's for
The Q7 suits families who need occasional third-row seating but still want a refined SUV that feels composed on everyday roads. It also makes sense for drivers who value standard all-wheel drive, useful cargo flexibility, and enough towing ability for a substantial trailer.
Audi Q7 lineup
Premium is the entry point and makes sense for shoppers who want the Q7’s core luxury, three-row layout, and standard all-wheel drive without moving to an upper trim. Premium Plus is the middle choice, with a history of adding more comfort, lighting, camera, and driver-assistance equipment. Prestige sits at the top and is the pick for the fullest comfort and technology package. In recent years, 45 models use the turbo four-cylinder, while 55 models use the stronger turbo V6; the 2026 lineup also includes S line 55 versions.
Audi Q7 generations
From 2009 to 2026, the Q7 spans two generations. The current 2nd Generation — 4M arrived for 2016, following the 1st Generation — 4L (2007–2015).
2nd Generation — 4M (2016–2026)
The second-generation Q7 uses the 4M body and cabin introduced for 2016. It received a major styling and dual-touchscreen update for 2020, followed by another exterior and lighting refresh for 2025.
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2026Trim changes
Most of the lineup carries over. The 55 Premium Plus gains comfort and suspension equipment, while the 55 Prestige gains all-wheel steering.
2025Mid-cycle update
Revised front and rear styling, updated lighting, new wheel designs, and refreshed interior trim. The engines carry over.
2024
Minor equipment reshuffling includes multicolor ambient lighting becoming standard on Premium Plus.
2023
Q7 45 models gain a stronger 261-hp turbo four-cylinder, along with several feature updates across the lineup.
2022
More safety and convenience equipment becomes standard, including rear-side airbags and direct tire-pressure readouts.
2021
Driver-assistance and convenience features become standard on more models.
2020Mid-cycle update
New front and rear styling, a dual-touchscreen dashboard, and a newer turbo V6 substantially update the lineup.
2019Trim changes
SE-badged variants enter the lineup. Navigation becomes standard, and Premium Plus gains more technology.
2018
Passive entry and push-button start become standard across the lineup, with added equipment on upper trims.
2017New generation
New 2.0T Premium and Premium Plus trims add a 252-hp turbo four-cylinder while retaining standard AWD and seven seats.
1st Generation — 4L (2007–2015)
The original Q7 is a three-row SUV with standard AWD and gas or diesel power. A 2010 styling and cabin refresh was followed by new supercharged V6 engines and an eight-speed automatic for 2011.
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2015
Lower-body trim becomes body-colored with added chrome, and upper trims gain more standard safety and camera equipment.
2014Trim changes
Xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights become standard across the lineup.
2013Trim changes
Diesel models gain a stronger 240-hp V6 and improved fuel economy.
2012Trim changes
The regular gas V6 rises to 280 hp, and navigation-equipped models gain connected services.
2011Trim changes
New supercharged gas V6 engines replace the previous gasoline choices, and every Q7 gains an eight-speed automatic.
2010Mid-cycle update
Revised front and rear styling, standard LED taillights, updated cabin trim, and newer navigation technology refresh the Q7.
2009Trim changes
The 3.0 TDI diesel model joins the lineup, while the other models receive equipment updates.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Audi Q7.
Frequently asked questions
Does every Audi Q7 have three rows and seven seats?
No. Most used Q7s have three rows and seat seven, including the newer 45 and 55 trims. An early base 3.6 Quattro was a five-passenger version, so check the seating layout when shopping older examples.
Does the Audi Q7 come with all-wheel drive?
Yes. All-wheel drive is a core Q7 feature across the model history covered here. Newer versions pair it with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Is the Audi Q7 a hybrid?
The Q7 is not a full hybrid. Newer 55 TFSI models use a gasoline turbo V6 with mild-hybrid assistance, while 45 TFSI models use a gasoline turbo four-cylinder. Older used Q7s also included TDI diesel versions.
What kinds of engines has the Audi Q7 used?
The Q7 has used several engines over time. Older models included gas V6 and V8 engines plus a TDI diesel V6. Second-generation versions added a turbo four-cylinder, while newer 55 TFSI models use a turbo V6 with mild-hybrid assistance.
Is the Audi Q7 a good family SUV?
Yes, especially for families that want three-row usefulness without a bulky driving feel. Most versions seat seven, and newer models add a power-folding third row, a hands-free power tailgate, a quiet cabin, and standard all-wheel drive.
How do the first- and second-generation Audi Q7 differ?
The first-generation Q7 ran through 2015 and included gas V6, V8, and TDI diesel versions. The second generation spans 2017 through 2026 and has a more car-like character. Its major 2020 refresh brought dual touchscreens, a digital gauge display, and newer engine naming.
Can the Audi Q7 tow?
Yes. In the latest lineup, maximum towing capacity ranges from 4,400 to 7,700 pounds depending on the powertrain and equipment. Check the specific vehicle’s rating before towing because the 45 and 55 versions are not rated the same.
How much cargo space does the Audi Q7 have?
The latest Q7 has 68.1 cubic feet of cargo capacity. Its power-folding third row also makes switching between passenger and cargo duty easier.
Audi Q7 Reviews
What owners are saying about the Audi Q7.
4.3
Audi Q7
(2,356 reviews)
“Still new to us but so far love the quality, workmanship, and safety of the vehicle. We are still taking some time to learn all of the options.”
“very comfortable, and gas mileage is better than expected. Roomy, reliable and gives a great ride”
“Q-7 is totally exceeds my expectations. Provides the expected comfort, mileage and performance I hoped to attain. Changing from driving a truck 15 + years to an Audi Q-7 was worth the chance & I don't regret a mile moment!”
“Check it out thoroughly and be prepared for a learning curve. But it's worth it.”
“Our family loves our new Q7. It truly is an enjoyable driving experience and comfortable for a family!”