Do you see yourself driving an SUV that combines style, performance, and luxury? If that's the case, which one? Audi makes an entire range of them.
At the pinnacle of Audi's formidable Q series, the Q7 and Q8 battle it out to be the series' flagship vehicle. Though they're both powerful and beautiful rides, each caters to a unique type of consumer and driver. Both have innumerable strengths, but only one will suit you the best.
Find out which of these gorgeous SUVs ticks the most boxes for you by reading this handy comparative guide.
Audi Q7 vs. Q8 on the Road
Comparing the performance of the various Q7s and Q8s at this time of year is trickier because the engines differ across trim levels (for the 2023 models) and editions (2023 vs. 2024). There's a lot more that these SUVs have in common, but the few differences they do have under the hood make a massive difference.
Engine(s)
Lower trims of the 2023 and 2024 Q7 have a turbocharged two-liter inline-four engine. This engine is already more potent than average for an SUV, as it can develop 261 horsepower and has a maximum torque output of 273 lb-ft. These also come with a 12-volt hybrid system that can increase the power output even further.
The upper trims of the Q7s (those with the 55 badge) and all Q8s have a turbocharged three-liter V6 that cranks out 335 horsepower! All the SUVs with this engine come with a 48-volt mild hybrid system to increase power that also runs a stop-go motor for better fuel economy.
From Pedal to Road
All these SUVs route their power through an 8-speed automatic transmission to the famous Quattro all-wheel-drive found in many different types of Audis. With this reliable drive-train, shifting is always smooth.
Along with other components (like the shocks), the transmission can be adjusted by selecting between different drive modes. These drive modes adjust shifting, shocks, breaks, and even the engine to optimize for different driving needs.
Fuel Economy
The most efficient vehicle would be a Q7 with an inline-four engine. These are rated for around 19 mpg in the city and 25 on the highway. A Q7 45 (premium or premium plus) is the vehicle for you if you're buying an Audi SUV but want the best fuel economy.
The next most efficient car would be a Q8 from either 2023 or 2024. Though these have the same engine as the Q7 with a 55 badge, they're much lighter. They can do around 18 mpg on city streets and 23 mpg on highways.
The least efficient is a Q7 with the 55 badge. They're heavy vehicles, and their V6s aren't shy about gulping fuel. They tend to get about 17 mpg in the city and 21 on the highway.
The Q8s and the Q7s with V6 engines also have the stop-go function, which boosts fuel efficiency. If you keep yours in the economical drive mode, you may get way more mpg than average.
Performance and Handling
People don't typically buy SUVs for drag racing, but it's worth knowing that the V6 in these SUVs can get even the biggest Q7 up to 60 mph in under six seconds! The two-liter Q7s are only about a second slower.
The extra length on the Q7 really makes the most difference in performance and handling. Q7s are heavier and slightly slower and are not as zippy around the bends as the Q8. The Q8 sticks tighter to the ground when cornering on bendy roads.
The extra length, height, and weight of the Q7 all decrease its agility. The excess weight on the Q7 also means that it can tow less. Where the Q8s are rated to tow 7000 lbs, the Q8's towing package can let you tow up to 7700 lbs.
If speed and agility are more important for you than space, then the Q8 is for you. However, if you're hauling a lot of sound equipment, luggage, or coworkers on a regular basis, then the Q7 will be more practical.
Spacious or Cavernous
You don't only feel the difference between an Audi Q7 and a Q8 when driving it; you also feel it as a passenger. The most noticeable difference between the Q7 and the Q8 is that the Q7 has an extra row of seats.
The Q7 has a third row of seats at the back and almost an inch more headroom for its rear passengers. The Q8 only seats five people, and they'll be a little more cramped than they would have been in the Q7.
However, the Q7 majors as a troop transport. It only has 14 cubic feet of cargo space available with all the seats up. This increases to 35 cubic feet when the back row is folded away.
The Q8 has room in its trunk for 30 cubic feet of cargo (roughly nine carry-on bags). This means that these cars don't differ much when you're packing bags, but the people in the back are having very different experiences.
The Luxury Race
Q7s and Q8s aren't merely utilitarian workhorses; they're luxury vehicles made to contend with the classiest names in the game. All new Q7s and Q8s have digital, touch-screen infotainment systems. They also feature great sound systems and onboard WiFi connections.
However, the Q8 does have some luxury features the Q7 does not. Upscale models feature zoned climate control, so you can be cool in front while cooking your passengers if you like. The top-of-the-range model even has massaging seats!
You'll have to buy the latest Q8 if you want access to the brand-new features. However, the Q7 hasn't changed much in the last few years, so you don't miss out on any luxury features if you pick one up second-hand.
Get Your Dream SUV Today
When you pit the Audi Q7 vs. Q8 you find that they're both amazing SUVs, but they do cater to very different drivers. The Q7 works well for those who need a lot of space and comfort for their passengers. The Q8 serves people who love fast cars but also like more space and clearance than sports cars have.
If you want one of these or any other Audi models, do your vehicle shopping with Audi Charlotte today. We pride ourselves in treating our customers like family and will help you get a great deal on your dream SUV.
