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 2019 Mazda CX-9 is more than just a pretty face. Along with its attractive style comes plenty of utility and a quick and sporty driving character that enhances the typical three-row family shuttle.Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are newly available.Retuned suspension for a smoother ride.New surround-view parking camera system.
PROS Premium interior, especially the top-level Signature trim Sporty handling Comfortable and quiet on the highway
CONS Cargo capacity isn't as generous as in competitors Third-row seats aren't especially accommodating
The 2019 Mazda CX-9 delivers heavily on style, but it’s just adequate in other respects.
Pros Gorgeous sheetmetal Near-luxury interior Widely available safety tech Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, finally
Cons No touchscreen functionality Not as much space as competitors Limited options No hybrid alternative
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto finally join the spec sheet for 2019 and are standard on Touring, Grand Touring, and Signature trims. Mazda has included a list of other optional features for 2019 as well, which includes ventilated front seats, a 360-degree-view exterior camera system, SiriusXM Travel Link (live traffic and weather updates, among other things), a digital gauge display, power-folding exterior mirrors, and a frameless rearview mirror. The luxurious Signature trim now comes with a new wood trim inside and exclusive exterior badging.
Pros Sweetest-driving three-row, fuel-efficient powertrain, near-luxury interior.
Cons Compromised cargo room, tight third row, no second-row captain's chairs.