2021 Audi Q7 Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

Recently, it appears more buyers are seeking three-row vehicles. Audi has responded to this trend with the Q7, offering a highly practical yet luxurious SUV for 2021. Whatever label people choose to apply to it - practical or not - the Q7 certainly lives up to expectations and is sure to please any challenge that comes its way.

What's New for 2021?

The changes for 2021 are relatively minor. Audi has added blind spot monitoring as a standard feature across all trims, while the Premium Plus trim now comes with an optional package featuring numerous upgrades that make the cabin more comfortable and convenient. At the higher end of the spectrum, Prestige models receive even more refinements with leather armrests and heating elements in their back seats.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2021 Audi Q7 – The Pros

1. Two Engine Options

Drivers seeking extra power are in luck with the Audi Q7! Offering two engine options, this SUV comes standardly equipped with a reliable four-cylinder 2L Turbocharged option. For an upgrade to more intense performance and increased torque at 273 pound-feet, customers can opt for the 3L V6 – boosting horsepower up to 335HP. Make your choice count - add some muscle to that adventure vehicle today!

2. No Problem When Towing Cargo

Wanting to tow your cargo? No issue is too small.

The 45 TFSI models, equipped with two-liter turbocharged engines, can tow up to 4,400 pounds - ideal for weekend warriors who plan on occasionally hauling jet skis, motorbikes or similar gear. Meanwhile, the 55 TFSI models with twin scroll turbocharged V6 engines offer an even greater capacity of 7,700 pounds - perfect for hauling work equipment or boats.

3. Advanced Seating

Audi's seats offer soft and supportive leather surfaces. Heating elements in the first- and second-row seats keep things cozy in winter months, while available ventilation keeps people cool in summer days. As expected, front seats are power-adjustable as well, while lumbar support can also be adjusted electronically for added comfort.

4. Stay Connected

In an Audi SUV, people can stay connected to the network wherever they go. Available on the Q7 is Audi connect, a subscription service offering Wi-Fi hotspots and turn-by-turn directions with voice commands or physical buttons or the touchscreen. Nowadays people expect instant access to all kinds of information; that's no different in a Q7. Higher trims may even feature an Audi phone box which amplifies cell signals and charges smartphones wirelessly.

5. On the Lookout

The Audi provides its passengers with a host of safety features, such as airbags, crumple zones, a rearview camera and anti-lock brakes - all standard components in today's vehicle. But these are just the beginning. With such advanced technology available onboard, there's no reason why your Audi shouldn't meet all your needs.

On top of that, it has several driver-assist technologies which are constantly monitoring for issues and ready to act if needed. With adaptive cruise control, the Audi can adjust its own speed accordingly to maintain proper distance while Active Lane Assist gently corrects steering if attention is lacking. Audi pre sense front is another system in which the SUV detects imminent frontal collisions and applies brakes if necessary. Higher trims also come equipped with features like 360-degree camera views and automatic reverse braking for added peace of mind.

6. Sophistication Is Evident

The Q7, like other Audis, exudes luxury. This is thanks to its elegant wood inlays, interior lighting that adds to the ambience inside, and panoramic sunroof that extends further back than average for passengers in back to enjoy it fully. At just the touch of a button, this sunroof can open up and let in fresh air.

7. Sporty Exterior

The Q7 boasts a solid frame and aerodynamic appearance that make it look like it's ready to hit the highway. It comes with 19- or 20-inch wheels, aluminum roof rails and spoiler on the tailgate as standard features. LED headlights have been used on lower trims; Prestige gets upgraded to matrix LEDs which really shine, almost like jewels attached as an accessory to the vehicle. Audi has finished off these highlights with aluminum trim around the windows and an elegant front grille for added flair.

8. Versatile Cabin

The Audi Q7 can accommodate up to seven passengers in its spacious back. When all seats are in their proper positions, 14 cubic feet of storage space is available at the back; that space can be expanded further by folding down the third row for 35 cubic feet more cargo capacity when both rear rows are folded flat together. Since not all seats must be folded simultaneously, there are various configurations that accommodate gear and passengers at once.

9. Standard All-Wheel Drive System

It has a sophisticated AWD system that combines quattro® technology and functions from an available active all-wheel control system – allowing for maximum traction, agility and handling performance. This four-wheel drive system gives drivers confident control over their vehicle, even as road conditions change.

For improved driver engagement, Audi's AWD can automatically apply braking pressure to individual wheels when necessary, providing extreme handling accuracy and agility. When it comes to turning or maneuvering on slippery surfaces, the power distribution between the rear and front axles ensures excellent steering precision by responding quickly to steering inputs. It also optimizes torque while cornering to provide highly precise driving dynamics tailored to each condition.

10. Impressive Extra Features

Luxury vehicles not only look nicer than other types of cars, but they're packed with many more advantages that justify their higher prices. Audi has taken great care to reward its customers by installing several systems on the Q7 that will leave people truly amazed.

First and foremost, all-wheel steering is available. This allows your vehicle to turn its rear wheels slightly for improved stability when cornering. Another amazing mechanism available on select models of the Q7 is adaptive air suspension; this enables you to adjust height and suspension response as you drive at higher speeds by sinking lower to reduce drag while dealing with rough roads.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2021 Audi Q7 – The Cons

1. Consumes Lots of Gas

The Audi Q7's standard engine may not be the fuel saver of your dreams, as it averages only 23 miles per gallon on highway drives and 19 in city conditions. With a more powerful version under its hood, these numbers are slightly reduced - which isn't ideal for those looking to save money or emissions at the pump. When compared with other crossovers though, one can see that many do offer better gas mileage than this intimidatingly stylish SUV.

2. Small Third Row

It is undeniable that having a third row can be useful in certain scenarios. However, its size may be too small for larger adults to comfortably sit in it - as evidenced by the Audi Q7 wherein its middle row offers generous leg room but only 29.2 inches for the third row seaters - making it ideal only for kids or those with limited space requirements.

3. Not Recommended for Off-Roading

Off-roading can be tricky to manage safely when not wearing proper safety equipment, including kneepads.

The Q7 comes standard with all-wheel drive, but it may not be ideal for extreme adventures. Lacking heavy duty skid plates or trail-rated suspension systems like some other SUVs have, the Q7 lacks the ruggedness that some small trucks and larger SUVs might offer. Although similar in size to these larger vehicles, it lacks their extra protection.

Conclusion

The 2021 Audi Q7 is a stellar choice for those seeking luxury, technology and comfort in an SUV. This vehicle serves light- to medium hauling purposes with two engine options that offer superior all-wheel drive capabilities plus driver assistance features like heated/ventilated seats for optimal on the go convenience. It's also equipped with a stunning panoramic sunroof providing breathtaking views from any angle! Though fuel efficiency may be lower than expected and third row seating could use some more room, it remains up to each consumer if this car will truly meet their needs - so take your time when deciding whether or not the 2021 Audi Q7 is right for you.