The 2017 Audi Q7 gets a rakish new sport-wagon look, a finely detailed, tech-savvy interior, and serious chassis advancements underneath—including a dramatic weight loss, available rear-wheel steering, and a plug-in hybrid version. Most models with a third row really put a damper on most kinds of driving enjoyment, whether that be zigzagging through tightly mountain-road esses, or just maneuvering through the parking lot of your local supermarket.
Pros Sportier, more carlike look and feel Finely detailed cabin Innovative rear-wheel steering Weight loss and better mpg
Cons Best tech features limited to top trim Third row not all that usable Potentially very expensive
The 2017 Audi Q7 ranks 4 out of 21 Luxury Midsize SUVs. The completely redesigned 2017 Audi Q7 scores well in the very competitive luxury midsize SUV class. In particular, its combination of interior quality, passenger and cargo space, and performance stand out. Each of these are important considerations for shoppers in this segment.
Pros Potent V6 engine Nimble handling Luxurious interior
Cons Less cargo room than rivals
Few three-row luxury crossovers are as desirable as the fully redesigned 2017 Audi Q7. Thanks to a supremely comfortable cabin, a powerful V6 engine and the latest high-tech features, the Q7 delivers capability and elegance in a package that'll make you feel as if you've arrived. After a one-year hiatus, the Audi Q7 is back and fully redesigned for 2017. Highlights include revised styling, a roomier interior, new technology features, improved fuel economy and a new four-cylinder turbocharged engine.
pros Plenty of the latest safety features and driving aids Powerful supercharged V6 engine First-class cabin comfort with vault-like quietness Excellent IIHS safety scores
cons Limited cargo space compared to most other midsize SUVs
The all-new 2017 Kia Niro is classified as a compact hybrid crossover SUV, though it really functions more like a hatchback. Your view of the road is marginally higher because of the Niro's elevated stance, but Kia doesn't offer the Niro with all-wheel drive, so don't expect to be a snow-busting trailblazer in bad weather. The Niro's core appeal comes from its traditional exterior design (no "hybrid!" shouting here) as well as a new powertrain that is capable of returning up to an EPA-estimated 50 mpg in combined city/highway driving.
Pros: Impressive fuel economy from the base trim model Six-speed transmission shifts like a conventional car's One of the more affordable hybrids in the segment Batteries are hidden under the rear seat and don't affect cargo space
Cons: All-wheel drive isn't offered despite the crossover styling Smaller cargo space compared to some rival models The Niro's Touring trim sacrifices some fuel efficiency
By calling it a crossover, the Korean brand also wants to get in the minds of the consumer wanting more utility. We all know crossover sales are booming, and part of their likeability is their higher ride height and boxy, useable interior space. But after spending a full day driving the Niro in Texas Hill Country, the question stuck in my head was whether it is really a crossover. The Niro is just 3.3 inches taller and has the same ground clearance as the Hyundai Ioniq, which it shares its platform with. And in terms of passenger volume, the Niro has only a small advantage, encasing 97.1 cubic feet versus the Ioniq’s 96.2 cubic feet. Although its two-box design might help its case for being a crossover, I suspect most will just see it as a lifted hatchback.
You shouldn’t have any nasty surprises, either. Kia was rated as above average in our most recent reliability survey and the Niro also gets a seven-year/100,000-mile warranty – a class-leading feature.
Pros: Low CO2 emissions Spacious interior Long warranty
Cons: More conventional rivals are cheaper Not much fun to drive Firm low speed ride
