Rolling Luxury Lounge: 2018 Audi Q7 3.0T quattro Test Drive

SUVs are dime-a-dozen on the road today, but few are as capable and stylish as the 2018 Audi Q7.

Although it’s plenty capable of handling paths less traveled, the Q7 really shines by focusing on providing the best on-road experience. From sedan-like performance to the best in advanced amenities, the Q7 is a luxury lounge on wheels.

Let’s take a detailed look at what other SUVs strive to be: the 2018 Audi Q7 3.0T quattro.

2018 Audi Q7 3.0T quattro Exterior

Featuring Audi’s new SUV design language that debuted last year, the 2018 Q7 delivers a strong and commanding presence with its sculpted body panels, flared wheel arches, and chrome accents.

The Q7’s signature three-dimensional Singleframe grille serves as the outset for the vehicle’s sharply designed lines that flow continuously to the rear. And although the Q7 carries a taller form-factor, its step-in and ride height are only slightly higher than a sedan, which make it easily accessible and also performance-friendly.

Our test model came in a premium Glacier White metallic color, and was paired with 21-inch Audi Sport wheels as part of the Titanium-black optic package. This same optional outfitting also replaces all of the Q7’s chrome accents with Titanium-black surfaces, including the front grille, dual exhaust tips, window surround, roof rails, and more.

Additional standard features include heated/power-folding exterior mirrors, power tailgate, power soft close doors, and front filler panel.

With purposeful styling and sporty proportions, the 2018 Q7 makes a confident statement on the road without drawing too much attention.

2018 Audi Q7 3.0T quattro Interior

For those who love Audi’s unique styling and masterful craftsmanship, the interior of the 2018 Q7 will feel refreshing yet familiar. Premium materials and thoughtful design are complemented by ample cabin space along with the best in advanced technology.

Nestled within the wing-design wrap-around dashboard is an available Audi virtual cockpit, which features a large 12.3-inch digital display. Replacing the traditional instrument panel, the Audi virtual cockpit offers a full-screen view of Google Maps, radio stations, vehicle information, navigation, and more as part of the Q7’s MMI infotainment system.

Ergonomic and intuitive controls for the MMI system can be found on the center console as well as the steering wheel, and feature updated input methods; for example, a large touchpad with handwriting recognition, a scroll wheel, and programmable shortcuts. To this day, it’s still one of our favorite in-car entertainment systems thanks to its responsiveness and eyes-free operation.

In terms of comfort, overall space has been greatly improved for second- and third-row passengers, and seating for seven comes standard on all 2018 Q7 models. Everyone also gets to enjoy leather seating surfaces, as well as a large panoramic sunroof.

Our test model’s Pistachio Beige interior came further equipped with the optional Luxury package which adds an Alcantara headliner and massaging functionality for the front passengers. The available Prestige package upgrades in-car sound to a 19-speaker Bose 3D system and brings customization to the interior LED lighting system.

Other interior highlights include power-folding 3rd row seats, three-zone automatic climate control, Audi smartphone interface, and high-gloss black/Gray Oak inlays.

2018 Audi Q7 3.0T quattro Performance

As suggested by our Q7’s 3.0T badging, this SUV is powered by a 333-horsepower 3.0-liter TFSI V6 engine that also produces 325 lb-ft of torque. Together with an 8-speed Tiptronic transmission, the 2018 Q7 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a staggering 5.7 seconds.

But what’s more impressive to us is that we were never reminded of the Q7’s size and weight while driving. The low-end torque from the engine plus a redesigned five-link suspension deliver a ride experience that’s both comfortable and agile, all while feeling effortless to command.

Further contributing to these dynamic handling characteristics is Audi’s legendary quattro all-wheel drive technology. It provides unmatched stability and traction capabilities through the use of active torque distribution, sending power to the rear axle when needed.

Our test model also came equipped with the optional adaptive chassis package, which adds four-wheel steering and adjustable air suspension. This combination provides extra customization through the Audi drive select menu for tailored driving modes.

With so much capability and advanced engineering, the 2018 Q7 instills the confidence to go anywhere your heart desires.

Fuel economy for the 2018 Audi Q7 3.0T quattro is an EPA-estimated 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway**.

2018 Audi Q7 3.0T quattro Safety

The 2018 Q7 features some of the best safety technology available, and received a 5-star Overall Safety Rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Association’s (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program.

Standard safety equipment for the 2018 model year includes advanced airbags, Audi pre sense basic + city, electronic stabilization control w/ offroad mode, rearview camera, and tire pressure monitoring.

Our test model also came equipped with the available Driver Assistance package, which offers adaptive cruise control w/ traffic jam assist, Audi active lane assist, and high-beam assistant. This option package is by far our favorite because it dramatically reduces fatigue during long commutes.

2018 Audi Q7 3.0T quattro Overall

Whether you need to carry many passengers, load up with adventure gear, or simply enjoy a spacious cabin, the 2018 Q7 is ready to do it all with performance, luxury, and style.

Starting MSRP for the 2018 Audi Q7 3.0T quattro is $56,400, and our test model came well-equipped for $81,200*.

Experience the comfort and versatility for yourself by visiting your local Autonation Audi dealership .

*MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, destination charge and options. Dealer prices may vary.
**Based on 2018 EPA mileage ratings. Your mileage will vary depending specific vehicle trim, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, and other factors.