Audi's Newest Q7 Is Joined by a 591-HP V-8 SiblingAudi (Audi)The 2027 Audi Q7 and SQ7 enter their third generation, and the mid-size three-row luxury SUVs are nicer and sportier than ever.The Q7 is now powered by a 429-hp turbocharged 2.9-liter V-6, while the SQ7 is motivated by a 591-hp twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8.The Q7 and SQ7 are once again built in Bratislava, and they should go on sale in the United States sometime in the fourth quarter of this year.The current Audi Q7 has been around since 2017, so by most standards, a new one is overdue. And yet, the 2026 Q7 sits solidly in second place in Car and Driver's ranking of mid-size three-row luxury SUVs. So, it's probably OK that the new one doesn't mess with the formula. Its chief changes are more power (always welcome) and trick new lighting technology.Audi (Audi)The Q7 is about the same size as before. The wheelbase remains at 118 inches, and the length stretches 199 inches. Width grows a bit to 79 inches, while height increases more notably to 71 inches, with a straighter roofline emphasizing that increase. Wheel sizes range up to 22 inches for the Q7 and 23 inches for the SQ7.Light 'em UpExterior lighting was a major focus of the redesign. The 2027 Q7 will offer Audi's Digital Matrix LED headlights, which have finally been OK'd by the Feds for sale in the United States market. These adaptive headlights can automatically switch off individual LEDs so as not to dazzle oncoming traffic, allowing the Q7 driver to keep their high-beams on. The Q7 also debuts turn signals that project onto the road, which could be helpful when navigating an urban environment full of pedestrians and cyclists. Additionally, the taillights are customizable OLEDs, the headlights' DRL pattern is also customizable, and the grille can be illuminated.Audi (Audi)Available power-opening and -closing doors access the interior. Previously available only with a bench seat in the second row, the new Q7 can be had with captain's chairs or a three-person bench. The latter can fit three child seats, and access to the rearmost row is still possible with a child seat attached. The third row is standard, and the seats in all rows are at least partially power-adjustable. The power liftgate is available with motion activation. Max cargo volume with all rear seats folded is 78 cubic feet; there's 44 cubic feet behind the second row and 15 cubic feet with all seats in place. All three measures are greater than before, and the standard cargo cover stows away.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe panoramic glass sunroof in the top trim level is dimmable in sections and features available lighting; more interior ambient lighting is splashed about the cabin, including at the base of the windshield, on the door panels, and below the front seat headrests (with the optional sport seats). There is no sunshade for the glass roof, but Audi claims its coating blocks 99.5 percent of UV radiation.Audi (Audi)The instrument display and the center touchscreen combine in a single, curved OLED display. A front passenger's screen is also standard, and a head-up display is optional. A built-in dashcam is optional on the base Q7 and standard on the upper trims and the SQ7.Air vents are adjusted on-screen (ugh), and the center console features dual wireless charging pads. An available Bang & Olufsen audio system features exciters in the front seats to create "4-D" sound.Power BoostThe new Q7 sees a big jump in horsepower. The previous 261-hp four-cylinder base engine has been axed. A turbocharged 2.9-liter V-6 is now standard; its 429 horsepower far eclipses the 355 horsepower of the outgoing Q7's optional V-6, and the new engine also offers 442 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic is once again tasked with the shifting duties, and all-wheel drive is standard.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe SQ7 retains a twin-turbo V-8 as its source of motivation, but here too, output climbs to 591 horsepower from 500 previously, with 590 pound-feet also on tap. Audi posits a 3.7-second zero-to-60 time for the SQ7 and a 4.8-second sprint for the Q7. Both models can tow up to 7700 pounds, and towing is made easier with two available technologies: automated steering when reversing with a trailer and trailer stability control.Audi (Audi)Adaptive air springs return as an option in the Q7. In the SQ7, they're available in both standard and Sport form, the latter with a 1.2-inch lower ride height. The air-spring suspension can also lower the car by 2.4 inches to ease entry and exit. Four-wheel steering is once again available.Pricing for the 2027 Audi Q7 has not been released, but for reference, the 2026 model ranges from $63,295 to $83,790; the SQ7 starts at $95,095 and stretches to $101,095. The new luxury SUVs will reach dealers in the U.S. sometime late this year. We have a feeling they're gonna stay a while.➡️ Skip the lot. Let Car and Driver help you find your next car.Shop New Cars Shop Used CarsYou Might Also LikeGift Guide: Best Ride-On Electric Cars for KidsFuture Cars Worth Waiting For: 2025–2029
