Pro: Well-built and spacious cabin Comfortable seats in the front and second rows Strong acceleration, especially in the XC90 T8 Cons: Third-row seats are only good for small adults or kids One USB port in a luxury family crossover is unacceptable
Pros Sharp new look and style; spacious second- and third-row seating; many standard safety technology features; confident handling; available hybrid model.
Cons Overly busy and firm ride quality; base engine comes up short on performance and real-world fuel economy; some touchscreen controls are hard to use.
Endnote: The XC90's suspension tuning is another mixed bag. On smooth pavement, the XC90 feels calm and controlled on its available air suspension. But over ruts, bumps and broken pavement, the vehicle delivers too many impacts and jitters to the occupants for a luxury SUV. We've only driven the XC90 with the big 21-inch wheels, but based on that experience, we recommend going with smaller wheels if possible to help smooth out the ride. Around turns, there's better news, as the XC90 inspires confidence with its planted character, feeling smaller and lighter than it really is.
The 2016 XC90 is raising the design bar in the premium three-row large crossover segment. And with a long roster of standard equipment that includes leather seating, navigation, a panoramic sunroof, a smartphone-like infotainment system and state-of-the-art safety gear, the XC90 provides an intriguing alternative to the German-branded competition.
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
