By Randi Payton
There’s something special about getting behind the wheel of a vehicle that promises both brute force and refined luxury, which the 2025 Audi SQ7 delivers. This high-performance SUV blends muscular power and everyday practicality, built into a complete package that exudes sophistication. Over the course of a week, I felt exhilarated on every turn, as I put this three-row luxury SUV through its paces.
Power/Performance: The 2025 Audi SQ7 combines raw power, spaciousness, and luxurious design. Under the hood sits a 4.0-liter twin-turbo eight-cylinder engine that churns out an impressive 500 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque, making it a formidable contender in its class. What sets the SQ7 apart is its ability to seat more passengers than its two-row siblings, the SQ8 and RS Q8, while still offering a lower price point. After spending a week behind the wheel, I came away thoroughly impressed by its versatility and performance.
Engineered with a sport-tuned suspension, the SQ7 strikes a balance between ride comfort and dynamic handling. Its power is complimented by Audi’s eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive, firmly gripping the road as it propels from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds. Whether I was navigating city streets or cruising the highway, the SQ7 was both agile and composed.
New for 2025: This year, the Audi SQ7 receives a host of updates that elevate its style and substance. Exterior enhancements include a new front spoiler, refreshed front and rear facias, and LED lighting with optional OLED taillights that feature customizable animations. It also offers more exterior paint colors like Sakhir Gold, Ascari Blue, and Chili Red. On the inside, there are upgraded premium materials such as leather upholstery, open-pore wood inlays, and brushed aluminum trim.
Technology upgrades include a faster, more responsive MMI infotainment system with improved voice recognition. The SQ7 also introduces a new “Dynamic Ride Control” suspension system, which uses predictive technology to adjust damping in real-time for a smoother, more controlled ride. For those seeking an extra touch of sportiness, optional diamond-stitched sport seats are now available, adding both style and support to the driving experience.
Models/Price: The 2025 Audi SQ7 offers two trim levels that start around $91,995 for the Premium Plus model and goes up to $98,095 for the Prestige. The Premium Plus features include 21-inch wheels, a 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit, a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, leather upholstery, and a panoramic sunroof. The Prestige model adds massaging front seats, extended leather trim, a night vision assistant, and a rear-seat entertainment system.
Fuel Efficiency: The V8 engine delivers an EPA-estimated 15 city/21 highway mpg. However, Audi’s mild-hybrid system helps improve efficiency by generating energy during braking and a start-stop function.
The 2025 Audi SQ7 is designed for affluent customers who want the versatility to haul large families, go on weekend trips, or spins around the racetrack.
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