Audi Q7 Premium vs Premium Plus – A Positive Choice for Your Next Luxury SUV

Luxury SUVs have become a go-to option for families looking for space comfort and high-end features and the Audi Q7 is a leading name in the segment. The 2024 Q7 comes with multiple trim levels to match various needs but today we're focusing on a common question: "Audi Q7 Premium vs Premium Plus – which one should you choose?" Both offer an exceptional driving experience yet cater to slightly different tastes and budgets. In this detailed comparison, we'll dig deep into the differences strengths and weaknesses of the two to help you make the best decision.

Overview: Audi Q7 Premium vs Premium Plus

The Audi Q7 lineup offers plush interiors high-end technology, and an exciting driving experience. While the Premium trim is the entry-level option the Premium Plus gives you a bit more in terms of luxury and features. Both are powered by impressive engines and include Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel drive system to tackle all kinds of weather and terrains.

But which one offers the best value for money? Let's dive into the key differences to help you figure out whether Premium or Premium Plus suits your lifestyle better.

Key Differences: What Sets Premium and Premium Plus Apart?

Performance and Engine Options

• Audi Q7 Premium:

  • Comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine
  • Produces 261 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque
  • Available with the optional 3.0-liter V6 engine (335 horsepower)
  • Quattro AWD comes as standard
  • 0-60 mph in 6.7 seconds with the 2.0L engine

• Audi Q7 Premium Plus:

  • Comes with the same engine options as Premium
  • More driver assistance features for highway driving
  • Adds adaptive cruise control and Audi’s traffic jam assist

Both trims offer good power and torque to handle everyday commuting as well as long road trips. However one drawback with both trims is that fuel economy can feel underwhelming. Expect around 19 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway with the 2.0L engine.

Alex Collantes, a longtime Audi owner, says: “The Q7's engine is smooth and powerful but with gas prices being what they are it can get pricey to drive around daily especially in urban areas”.

Interior Features and Space

Premium Trim Interior

The Q7 Premium offers a solid foundation with three rows of seating that can accommodate up to 7 passengers. The standard leather upholstery and panoramic sunroof make the cabin feel airy and upscale. However some may find that its technology package feels a bit basic compared to other luxury SUVs in the same segment.

• Standard Features in Premium:
  • 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster
  • MMI infotainment system with 10.1-inch touchscreen
  • Heated front seats
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration

Potential Drawbacks:

• The third-row space feels cramped especially for adults
• Limited adjustability in front seats without the optional packages

Premium Plus Trim Interior

The Premium Plus trim upgrades the interior experience with ventilated front seats and Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system. The enhanced ambient lighting adds a more luxurious feel especially during night drives. The navigation system and top-view camera also come as standard.

• Additional Features in Premium Plus:
  • Ventilated front seats for better comfort in warm weather
  • Bang & Olufsen premium audio system
  • Top-view 360-degree camera for easier parking
  • Ambient interior lighting package

Potential Drawbacks:

• High-tech features may seem overwhelming at first
• Price jump from Premium to Premium Plus is significant and not all buyers may feel the added features are worth it

Technology and Infotainment

Infotainment System Usability

Both trims feature Audi’s latest MMI system with dual touchscreens which look modern but may take some time to get used to. The lower screen handles climate controls while the upper one manages the infotainment and navigation. Both trims also support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto which is a huge plus for smartphone users.

However some users have mentioned the touchscreen controls are a bit finicky. A small mistake while pressing a button could mean selecting the wrong function while driving which can get frustrating.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Audi Q7 Premium offers a solid range of standard safety features including:

• Audi Pre Sense Front (warns of a potential collision)
• Lane departure warning
• Rearview camera

With the Premium Plus you get several extra driver aids:

• Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality
• Audi traffic jam assist
• Active lane assist to help with highway driving

Both trims score high in crash safety ratings but some buyers may feel that Audi charges too much for optional safety packages in these models.

Driving Experience and Handling

One of the biggest strengths of the Audi Q7 is its precise handling. It drives more like a smaller crossover than a full-sized SUV. The quattro all-wheel drive ensures solid traction even in tough weather conditions.

However some drivers complain that the steering feels overly light for an SUV of this size. Alex Collantes shares his thoughts: “The handling is amazing for such a big SUV but the steering doesn’t give the feedback I’d want. It’s a bit too light especially on highways”.

Pricing and Value

• Audi Q7 Premium: Starting at $59,200
• Audi Q7 Premium Plus: Starting at $65,400

The difference in price between the two trims is around $6,000 but the features you gain with the Premium Plus are more focused on luxury and convenience rather than performance upgrades.

Is the Premium or Premium Plus Better for You?

It depends on what you value more in your next SUV:

• Choose the Premium if:

  • You want a high-quality luxury SUV without breaking the bank
  • You're okay with less advanced tech features
  • You don’t drive much on highways where adaptive cruise control is useful

• Choose the Premium Plus if:

  • You want a fully loaded luxury experience
  • Driver assistance tech is a priority for you
  • You're often in heavy traffic where adaptive features make driving easier

Fuel Economy: A Common Concern

One area where the Audi Q7 struggles is fuel economy. With premium fuel recommended for both engines the costs can quickly add up especially if you drive a lot. Real-world reports suggest that city driving tends to dip below the EPA estimates meaning you might end up at the pump more often than expected.

Final Thoughts

Both the Audi Q7 Premium and Premium Plus offer outstanding performance and luxury but they cater to slightly different needs. If you’re looking for a more affordable entry into the Q7 lineup without sacrificing too much the Premium trim is a great choice. However if top-tier features and tech are non-negotiable for you the Premium Plus is worth the investment.

Both trims have their own drawbacks but they still stand as some of the best options in the luxury SUV segment. Alex Collantes concludes: “At the end of the day it’s a personal choice. Both are excellent options but if you love gadgets and tech the Premium Plus just feels right”.

FAQs

1. Is the Audi Q7 Premium Plus worth the extra cost?

• If you value tech upgrades and comfort features like ventilated seats it’s definitely worth it.

2. Does the Q7 Premium come with a navigation system?

• No you'll need to opt for the Premium Plus or add it as part of a package.

3. Are both trims good for towing?

• Yes both can tow up to 7,700 lbs with the optional towing package.

4. Can I upgrade from Premium to Premium Plus later?

• Some features like adaptive cruise control require hardware so it's better to choose carefully upfront.

Conclusion

Choosing between the Audi Q7 Premium and Premium Plus boils down to personal priorities. Both trims are solid performers with luxurious interiors and reliable all-wheel drive. If you’re after the best bang for your buck and can do without some extra tech the Premium will serve you well. But if you crave top-end features and a more elevated driving experience the Premium Plus won’t disappoint.

Either way you’ll be driving one of the finest luxury SUVs on the market.