Why You’ll Love the 2024 Audi Q8 vs 2024 Audi Q7: A Detailed Comparison
The luxury SUV market is saturated with options but if you're an Audi enthusiast, two models have likely caught your attention: the 2024 Audi Q8 and the 2024 Audi Q7. While both vehicles offer a range of impressive features, it's important to weigh the pros and cons of each so you can make an informed decision. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between the Audi Q8 and Audi Q7 with a clear focus on the 2024 models, and even dive into what real-world drivers think. Whether you're looking for style, practicality, or performance this guide will help you determine which Audi SUV is best suited for your needs.
Audi Q8 Overview
The Audi Q8 is Audi’s answer to those who want the look and feel of a coupe with the practicality of an SUV. It’s bold muscular and makes a statement wherever you go.
Design and Exterior
The 2024 Audi Q8 comes with a refreshed design that emphasizes its athletic stance. The sloping roofline gives it a sportier aesthetic than its sibling the Q7. Up front the bold Singleframe grille and Matrix-design headlights scream premium quality. Unlike the Q7 the Q8 is designed more for those who prioritize looks and performance over just having extra seating space.
- Wheel options range from 20 to 23 inches
- LED lighting is standard across all trims
- Available Black Optic Package adds a more aggressive appearance
Design Limitations
While the Q8 is undeniably striking, the sloping roofline does compromise rear headroom a bit, especially for taller passengers. It's also not as spacious as the Q7 for those looking to maximize cargo space.
Audi Q7 Overview
On the other hand, the Audi Q7 is more traditional in its design with a focus on practicality and versatility. It's ideal for larger families or those who often carry extra passengers.
Design and Exterior
The Q7’s boxier shape compared to the Q8 makes it more spacious inside, particularly for those needing a third-row option. The exterior is elegant and understated—it doesn’t turn heads as quickly as the Q8 but its design is timeless.
- Standard 19-inch wheels with options to go larger
- More conservative exterior design
- Offers more rear visibility compared to the Q8 due to its shape
Design Limitations
While the Q7 excels in functionality, it lacks the pizzazz of the Q8. If you're someone who values style just as much as space, the Q7 may feel a bit too tame.
Interior and Comfort
Audi Q8 Interior
Stepping inside the Audi Q8, you’ll notice the high-tech minimalist design. It features two touchscreens on the dashboard which handle the majority of the vehicle’s functions, including climate control, media, and navigation.
- Standard leather upholstery
- Available Bang & Olufsen sound system
- Spacious 5-passenger seating
However, there’s no third row here, which could be a dealbreaker for families. The lack of a third row limits it to a maximum of five passengers, which is perfectly fine if you don’t often have extra riders. But for some that’s a big downside.
"I absolutely love the high-end feel of the Q8’s interior," says Alex Collantes an Audi enthusiast and owner. "It feels futuristic yet still easy to use compared to other luxury SUVs where the tech can get overwhelming."
Audi Q7 Interior
Inside the Q7 the experience is equally luxurious but far more practical. You still get the dual-touchscreen setup but with the added advantage of third-row seating, allowing up to seven passengers.
- Standard heated front seats
- Available massaging seats for ultimate comfort
- Ample legroom in both the second and third rows
However, some might find that the third-row seating is a bit cramped for adults, especially on long trips. It's great for kids, but if you're regularly transporting full-grown passengers, it might feel a bit tight.
Cargo Space: Q8 vs Q7
One of the main differences between these two SUVs is the cargo capacity. The Q7 offers significantly more space, especially when the third row is folded down.
- Audi Q8: 30.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row
- Audi Q7: 14.2 cubic feet with the third row up, 35.7 cubic feet with the third row down
For families or those who frequently carry large loads, the Q7 has the upper hand.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Audi Q8 Performance
The 2024 Audi Q8 is built for those who prioritize performance. With a standard 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine, it delivers 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It’s quick, responsive, and handles corners like a dream, especially for an SUV.
- 0-60 mph in just 5.6 seconds
- Quattro all-wheel drive is standard
- Available adaptive air suspension for a smoother ride
Handling Drawbacks
While the Q8 is sportier it’s also a bit stiffer than the Q7. If you’re used to a more cushioned ride, the Q8’s focus on performance might be a bit too firm for your liking. It’s excellent on highways but might feel less refined on rougher surfaces.
Audi Q7 Performance
The Q7 is no slouch either. It comes with the same 3.0-liter V6 engine but its extra weight means it’s a bit slower to hit 60 mph compared to the Q8, clocking in at 5.7 seconds. However, it makes up for that with superior ride comfort.
- Mild hybrid system boosts fuel efficiency
- All-wheel steering available for more nimble handling
- Great for both city driving and long road trips
Handling Limitations
The Q7 focuses more on comfort than performance. If you’re expecting sports-car-like handling you might find the steering a bit more muted and less engaging than the Q8.
Technology and Infotainment
Audi Q8 Tech Features
Both the Q8 and Q7 come with Audi’s MMI touch response system, featuring dual touchscreens, but the Q8 takes things up a notch with its sporty emphasis on driver assistance tech.
- Standard Audi Virtual Cockpit
- Optional head-up display with traffic sign recognition
- Available night vision assist
Tech Drawbacks
While the touchscreens are intuitive they can also be a bit distracting. Adjusting climate controls while driving may require more attention than traditional knobs and buttons.
Audi Q7 Tech Features
The 2024 Q7 comes with the same MMI system but with a greater focus on family-friendly features. You can add up to six USB ports to keep everyone’s devices charged and ready.
- Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Available rear-seat entertainment system
- More spacious center console for added storage
Tech Limitations
Similar to the Q8, the touchscreen-heavy interface might not appeal to those who prefer physical controls, especially when it comes to adjusting key settings while driving.
Fuel Economy
Audi Q8 Fuel Economy
The Audi Q8 is rated at 18 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. While not groundbreaking it’s pretty standard for a luxury SUV in its class.
Audi Q7 Fuel Economy
The Audi Q7 fares similarly with 18 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. However, because the Q7 is heavier its real-world fuel economy might be slightly less efficient than the Q8.
Safety Features
Audi Q8 Safety
The 2024 Audi Q8 comes with an extensive list of standard safety features including:
- Automatic emergency braking
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Adaptive cruise control
However, its sloping roofline does limit rearward visibility, which could be a concern in certain driving situations.
Audi Q7 Safety
The Q7 is similarly equipped with an array of safety technologies but has the added benefit of better all-around visibility due to its design.
- Lane-keep assist
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Available 360-degree camera system
Pricing and Trim Levels
Audi Q8 Pricing
The 2024 Audi Q8 starts at approximately $72,800, and can easily climb north of $90,000 when fully optioned.
Audi Q7 Pricing
The Audi Q7 starts at a more accessible $60,400. Fully equipped models can reach upwards of $85,000 but it generally offers more features at a lower price point compared to the Q8.
Which Should You Choose?
In the end, choosing between the 2024 Audi Q8 and 2024 Audi Q7 comes down to what you prioritize. If you're looking for style and performance and don't need a third row or tons of cargo space, the Q8 is a stunning option that will turn heads. But if you're after practicality, space, and versatility especially for families the Audi Q7 is the clear winner.
Final Thoughts from Alex Collantes
"As much as I love the Q8 for its bold looks and sharp handling, the Q7 just offers more of what I need in an everyday vehicle," Alex shares. "The third-row seating and extra cargo room are invaluable when you’ve got a busy lifestyle."
Common Questions
- Which has better fuel economy Q8 or Q7?
- Both the Audi Q8 and Q7 have similar fuel economy ratings but the Q8 might be slightly more efficient in real-world conditions due to its lighter weight.
- Is the Audi Q7 suitable for families?
- Absolutely! The Audi Q7 is perfect for families thanks to its spacious interior and third-row seating.
Pros and Cons Recap
Audi Q8 Pros:
- Sleek Coupe-like design
- Strong performance
- High-end tech features
Audi Q8 Cons:
- Limited rear headroom
- Less cargo space compared to the Q7
Audi Q7 Pros:
- Spacious interior with third-row seating
- Family-friendly features
- More cargo space
Audi Q7 Cons:
- Less exciting design
- Slower acceleration compared to Q8
No matter which model you choose both the 2024 Audi Q8 and 2024 Audi Q7 deliver luxury comfort and performance. But understanding the subtle differences will help ensure you make the right choice for your lifestyle.