Should You Buy a 2020 Audi Q7?

The current and generation Audi Q7 receives comprehensive updates making it an even more enticing proposition.

With SUVs now being the go-to and do-it-all vehicle, it’s no small wonder that the number of offerings continues to grow. This is especially true for luxury midsize 3-row SUVs. In less than 18 months’ time, more than 75% are heavily updated or completely new, and there are more on the way.

The 2020 Audi Q7 faces off against the all-new 2020 Cadillac XT6, its twin, the Buick Enclave, the new Lexus RX-L, the Infiniti QX60, Acura MDX, Land Rover Discovery, Volvo XC90 and the completely new 2020 Lincoln Aviator. Keep in mind this competitive set is priced between $60,000 and $75,000, leaving out the likes of the Mercedes-Benz GLS (and GLB) and the BMW X7, both starting around the $90k mark.

As far as competition goes, this is an uber-tough crowd. With the exception of the affordable but uninspiring Infiniti QX60 (included because someone said Infiniti makes luxury vehicles), all of these vehicles are in top-form vying for your money and attention.

Is the newly re-minted 2020 Audi Q7 the one you should consider? Read on.

Why you should buy a 2020 Audi Q7:

1. Audi continues to design and build some of the most forward-thinking and modern-looking vehicles on the road. Styling is never boisterous or over-the-top – the new Q7 is extremely alluring and premium-looking.
2. Although the base 2.0-litre turbo 4-cylinder will provide enough power and efficiency, the new twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6, good for 340-horsepower and 369 lb.-ft. of torque mated to mild-hybrid technology is far better suited to the Q7 and with only a mild penalty in fuel consumption.
3. Among all its peers (under $80k with options), only the Lincoln Aviator’s powertrain is more powerful however its base price exceeds that of the Q7.
4. The 2020 Audi Q7’s spacious cabin features the first properly thought-out use of twin display screens for all manners of controls. The layout is not only handsome but it is functional. The seats are incredibly comfortable.
5. On the road, the Audi Q7 demonstrates poise, serious handling capabilities and when equipped with the optional all-wheel-steering, is incredibly agile.

Why you should not buy a 2020 Audi Q7:

1. With a few choice options, pricing quickly rises to Mercedes-Benz GLS levels which for some could be considered a more premium vehicle.
2. Audi (and other VAG products) continue to suffer from occasionally laggy throttle response. This remains an issue, although mild, with the new Audi Q7.
3. At nearly $70,000 (2020 pricing not yet available), the base Audi Q7 could be considered low on content and technology. For under $68,000, an Acura MDX Elite is delivered with absolutely everything, except perhaps the prestige associated and expected from Audi.

Conclusion:

The new 2020 Audi Q7 continues to sit in a gap between the loaded Japanese 3-row luxury SUVs and the pricier BMW and Mercedes-Benz. This position has proven to be extremely advantageous for the Audi as its popularity in undeniable.

We just recently reviewed the all-new 2020 Cadillac XT6 and although it is handsome, it’s exactly what we expected it to be – just another clone. The one true obstacle in the Q7’s way might be the all-new 2020 Lincoln Aviator. We drive it in early October but on paper, it’s got the power and technology to take it to the Germans. Like Cadillac, Infiniti, Acura and Lincoln, brand recognition weighs heavily in consumers’ minds so it remains to be seen if Lincoln will break free from this stigma with what may be a superior product.

Even if the Aviator turns out the be all that, opting for a 2020 Audi Q7 will never be the wrong decision. In fact, a new 55 TFSI Progressiv or Technik for between $77,500 and $82,500 would be the luxury 3-row SUV we purchase. If we were to go the way of the X7 and GLS, we’d need to select the V8s which increases pricing to $110,000 to start.

2020 Audi Q7 Photo Gallery