- The redesigned Q7 and SQ7 debut with more powerful turbocharged engines.
- The 3-row SUV has a roomier cabin despite having nearly the same footprint as its predecessors.
- Innovative technology extends from the lighting to the luxurious.
The redesigned Audi Q7 and SQ7 made their global debut today, and the smaller of Audi’s two 3-row SUVs is shaping up to be the sportier one. Two new potent twin-turbo engines will sit between the flared wheel arches of the third-generation Q7, with the SQ7 clocking an estimated 0-to-60-mph time of just 3.7 seconds.
In back, the third row looks to be a bit roomier thanks to the higher ceiling than its predecessor, though the frame remains the same, dimensionally. The interior upgrades include more than just screens plastering the dash; available wood grain trim and a 22-speaker audio system with headrest speakers and vibrating seats elevate this Q7 over its predecessor in the luxury space.
Here’s what’s new for the 2027 Audi Q7 and SQ7.
2027 Q7 and SQ7 Engine Options
At launch later this year, there will be two models and two engines, the Q7 and SQ7. Audi hasn’t announced if there will be a Q7 45 and Q7 55 as in past years.
| 2026 Q7 55 | 2027 Q7 | 2026 SQ7 | 2027 SQ7 | |
| Engine | 3.0-liter turbo V6 | 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 | 4.0-liter biturbo V8 | 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 |
| Horsepower, Torque | 335 hp, 369 lb-ft | 429 hp, 442 lb-ft | 500 hp, 568 lb-ft | 591 hp, 590 lb-ft |
| 0-to-60 mph | 5.5 seconds | 4.8 seconds | 4.0 seconds | 3.7 seconds |
An 8-speed automatic transmission and Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive are standard, and the towing capacity remains 7,700 pounds, which is near the top of the chart for the midsize SUV class. A new limited-slip center differential more evenly handles torque distribution between the axles for greater stability in more assertive driving.
With grip in mind, the SQ7 can be had with an available 23-inch staggered wheel setup with summer performance tires. Otherwise, wheel choices range from 20 to 22 inches, and all-season run-flat tires will be the shoes.
A retuned steel spring suspension returns as standard, while an adaptive air spring suspension remains optional on the Q7 and standard on the SQ7. The SQ7 can be had with a more sophisticated air suspension that lowers the ride height by 1.2 inches in its sportiest setting for reduced aerodynamic drag. On the optional setup on the Q7, it lowers 2.4 inches from the normal driving height on exit. Audi did not specify if the ground clearance changed from 8.3 inches in the 2026 model.
2027 Audi Q7 Size and Interior Space
With the same wheelbase as the outgoing model, it sounds as if the new Q7 shares the same frame dimensions. We haven’t been in it or seen it in person, but by the tape, the new Q7 measures up to be roomier, which was one critical flaw of the cramped third row in the 2026 Q7.
It’s 2.7 inches taller, so both headroom and cargo volume increase. There’s 1.5 cubic feet more behind the third row to 15.1 cubic feet, which is about the same as the trunks of the remaining sedans. Power-fold down the two seats in the third row to open up 43.9 cubic feet.
There are more clever seating arrangements, too, for the standard seven-seater. All seats are power-folding through the touchscreen or hard buttons in the cargo area and rear doors. The second-row bench can fit three child safety seats side by side and remain in place while occupants get into the third row, Audi says. The second row can be folded in a 65/35 split, but the center section or middle seat can be manually folded down for a more versatile 35/30/35 split. Second-row captain’s chairs are available for a six-seat configuration.
Compared to the outgoing model, legroom is about the same in all three rows, so there will likely need to be some negotiating between third-row and second-row passengers. If space is your primary concern, look to the all-new Audi Q9 3-row SUV.
Audi Q7 Luxury Touches and Tech Interfaces
Audi leans into the more luxurious side of things with this generation, swapping out the outdated gloss black plastic trim panels for optional wood-grain dash trim, among many other things. Leather upholstery choices range from beige to blue, and there are all kinds of welcome lighting and interior illumination. As in the Audi Q6 e-tron, the thin LED light strip at the base of the windshield is more than just ambient lighting, for instance; it shows the turn signal when activated.
Lighting on the exterior also takes a turn into the future. The Q7 receives the brand’s Matrix LED headlights that promise increased visibility and safety at night for pedestrians and cyclists. In addition, an optional feature casts indicator lights onto the ground, in addition to in the headlight and taillight housings. Optional OLED taillights can project warning symbols instead of the customizable taillight signature, and if in traffic and the Q7 is stopped and detects a car behind it that’s approaching too close, it will cast a full light display to warn it.
Back inside, a curved digital instrument cluster incorporates both the gauges and the center touchscreen, while the passenger can get their own touchscreen above the glovebox. Climate controls are relegated to the touchscreen, as are vent adjustments. We’ll reserve judgment until we test it. An integrated dashcam is available to aid in determining fault in case of crashes or to deter or detect theft. Dual 25-watt wireless device charges sit at the junction of console and center stack.
A new Bang & Olufsen sound system, available with 22 speakers and dubbed as having “4D sound,” promises to immerse the occupants in 1,360 watts of musical solitude. Headrest speakers, as well as actuators in the seats that vibe with your vibe, deepen the immersion.
A panoramic sunroof has nine shades of opacity to let in the light of your choosing, and it can be hued to reflect the ambient lighting in the cabin.
Built in Bratislava, Slovakia, the 2027 Q7 and SQ7 go on sale in the fourth quarter of this year. Expect pricing to be announced then, and expect it to be more than the $68,895 starting point for the 2026 Q7 55.
