2024 Volvo XC90 Vs. 2024 Audi Q7: Which Is The Better Luxury SUV?
If you're searching for a three-row SUV, reading our comparison of the Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7 can help you make an informed choice. These luxury seven-seater vehicles are muscular, with multiple powertrain options to motivate your ride. Learn about their relative specs and amenities here.
Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7 Performance & Specs
The Volvo XC90 comes with two mild-hybrid powertrain options. The first is known as the B5, which utilizes a 247-horsepower four-cylinder turbocharged engine, AWD, and regenerative braking technology to give your fuel economy extra efficiency. Making an EPA-estimated 22/27 MPG (City/Highway),1 it is notably more efficient than the Audi model's standard engine, which delivers an EPA-estimated 19/25 MPG (City/Highway).2
The Volvo B5 is slightly less powerful than the Audi Q7 standard engine, which makes 261 horsepower. However, the available Volvo B6 AWD powertrain is not, with 295 horsepower at its command. This option can go from 0 to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds while still being more fuel-efficient than the Audi SUV with its EPA-estimated 19/25 MPG (City/Highway).2
The Audi SUV also has another powertrain that makes 335 horsepower with the loss of some efficiency. You can go from 0 to 60 mph in an impressive 5.6 seconds with this ride. However, it doesn't compare to the Volvo model's last and final option – a plug-in hybrid powertrain capable of 455 horsepower, which can cross the same distance in five seconds flat. Not to mention, this version, known as the Volvo XC90 Recharge, enjoys an EPA-estimated 58 MPGe (City/Highway Combined).3 The Audi Q7 used to come in a PHEV form as well, but production of this model has since been paused.
2024 Volvo XC90
| Standard Engine: | B5 4-cylinder turbo engine |
|---|---|
| Horsepower: | 247 |
| Towing Capacity: | 4,000 lbs4 |
| Seating Capacity: | Up to 7 |
| Maximum Cargo Capacity: | 85.7 cu ft |
| EPA-est. MPG (Cty/Hwy): | 22/271 |
| Drivetrain: | AWD |
2024 Audi Q7
| Standard Engine: | 45 TFSI 4-cylinder turbo |
|---|---|
| Horsepower: | 261 |
| Towing Capacity: | 4,400 lbs4 |
| Seating Capacity: | Up to 7 |
| Maximum Cargo Capacity: | 69.6 cu ft |
| EPA-est. MPG (Cty/Hwy): | 19/252 |
| Drivetrain: | AWD |
Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7 Towing Capacity
The Volvo XC90 SUV can tow 5,000 pounds when properly equipped with either its B6 or plug-in hybrid powertrain. Meanwhile, the Audi Q7 can tow up to 7,700 pounds when it is properly equipped, which includes selecting the more powerful engine and having a tow hitch receiver and 7-pin connector. Either vehicle should be capable of towing a rental trailer to a storage unit or a fiberglass fishing boat to the lake.
Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7 Interior & Dimensions
Despite the Audi Q7 being an overall longer vehicle, at 199.3 inches versus 195, you might find yourself more comfortable in the Volvo model. For example, despite having very comparable first- and second-row legroom, the third row in the Volvo model offers passengers 31.9 inches of legroom, while the Audi model offers only 29.2 inches. This means that if you have kids with some growth spurts to go, they'll likely enjoy sitting in the Volvo SUV better.
Similarly, the 2024 Volvo XC90 vs. 2024 Audi Q7 cargo battle also tips in the Volvo SUV's favor. It has 15.8 cubic feet behind the third row, 65.5 cubic feet behind the second row with the third-row seats folded, and 85.7 cubic feet behind the first row. The Audi Q7 has 14.2 cubic feet behind its third row and 69.6 cubic feet maximum.
At the same time, the Volvo SUV's shorter exterior dimensions make it easier to parallel park.
Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7 Features & Technology
When you're considering new Volvo XC90 SUVs for sale, you have three trims to choose from.
- Core: Experience heated front seats, leatherette upholstery, and natural light from its panoramic roof. Pilot Assist and other advanced driver-assistance features offer support on the road.
- Plus: This upgraded trim sports leather upholstery, Linear Walnut decor, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. Parking and maneuvering will be easier with its 360-degree camera, too.
- Ultimate: Ventilated Nappa leather upholstery, a Graphical Head-Up display, and a Harman Kardon® premium sound system are just some of the reasons to buy or lease a new Volvo XC90 Ultimate.
The Audi Q7 also has three trim levels: the Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige. These offer very comparable features, including standard heated seats and an available Head-Up display. However, the Volvo model offers you these great amenities for thousands less. The Volvo XC90 MSRP is $56,000,5 while the Audi model starts at $59,500.6
Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7 Safety
The 2024 Volvo XC90 B5 AWD, Volvo XC90 B6 AWD, and Volvo XC90 Recharge all have five-star safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).7, 8, 9 While this is also true of the Audi Q7, it fares worse in certain categories. For example, it only gets four stars for Frontal Crash Safety.10 However, all of these vehicles still have tests pending as of this writing, so their overall safety rating may be subject to change.
Stop by Volvo Cars Richmond to Learn More About the Volvo XC90
When you compare the Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7, the Volvo XC90 comes out the overall winner in terms of price, power, fuel efficiency, cargo space, and safety. You will find it holds up similarly well in our Volvo XC90 vs. Lincoln Aviator comparison. However, if you still have questions about this SUV and its performance, our team at Volvo Cars Richmond is happy to answer them. We can also show, rather than tell you, the answers by setting you up on a tour and test drive.
FAQ About Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7 SUVs
Is the 2024 Volvo XC90 a safer vehicle than the Audi Q7?
The 2024 Volvo XC90 and Volvo XC90 Recharge have the same or better safety ratings from the NHTSA than the Audi Q7.7, 8, 9, 10 In addition to having an overall five stars, they have five stars in categories like Frontal Crash Safety, specifically on the front driver's side, while the Audi Q4 has four.7, 8, 9, 10 However, we are still waiting for certain tests to be concluded by the NHTSA on both vehicles.
Does the Volvo XC90 have more cargo room than the Audi Q7?
Yes, the Volvo XC90 contains more cargo room than the Audi Q7. Behind the third-row seats, it has 15.8 cubic feet, while the Audi model has 14.2 cubic feet. The difference only gets wider when you fold down the third- and second-row seats to increase cargo capacity. The Volvo XC90 tops out at 85.7 cubic feet, while the Audi model offers just under 70.
Which offers a better driving experience: the Volvo XC90 or the Audi Q7?
Which driving experience is better is subjective, but we favor the Volvo XC90. Not only is this a smooth-riding vehicle with standard Pilot Assist, but its comfortable front seats were ergonomically designed to be almost endlessly adjustable to your body to lessen the likelihood of aches during long drives. Knowing how much you're saving on gas while driving can also enhance your time in the SUV.
Discover How Our Other Volvo Models Compare
| 2024 vs. 2023 Volvo XC90 | Volvo XC90 vs. Lincoln Aviator | 2023 vs. 2022 Volvo XC90 |
| Volvo XC40 vs. Tesla Model 3 | Volvo XC90 vs. BMW X5 | Volvo XC60 vs. Audi Q5 |
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June 10, 2023
I started my buying process with Volvo of Richmond by reaching out online. Daniel and Cole helped me get the exact car I wanted and it was all done vi...
I started my buying process with Volvo of Richmond by reaching out online. Daniel and Cole helped me get the exact car I wanted and it was all done via text messaging and email! When I arrived at the dealership to pick up the car the next day, Daniel had all of the paperwork ready to go, provided a thorough review of the car’s features, and even helped me setup the infotainment! The deal that Ryan, the finance manager, presented on paper was exactly what Cole and Daniel provided by email without any high pressure up sells and the whole process was finished in less than an hour. It was a pleasure to work with whole team to get my beautiful new XC90! Thank you Volvo of Richmond!
Hi Jeff, we’re thrilled to get this kind of feedback.Thank you for taking the time to review us. Hope to see you again in the near future!
October 25, 2022
We wanted to buy a SUV that accommodates 6 or 7 passengers and finally ended up with Volvo. Joey from sales team helped me find the best car for me an...
We wanted to buy a SUV that accommodates 6 or 7 passengers and finally ended up with Volvo. Joey from sales team helped me find the best car for me and my family and now we have been driving our new XC90 for about 5 months and we are loving it!! Samy from their team walked us through the new features on our new XC90 and a special mention on his patience and politeness. He is a kind person and handled our queries with professionalism and dignity. Samy would be one of their team members whom I may rely on for any questions pertaining to Volvo cars. He cares for their customers and always welcomes questions so he can learn as well. He has a great attitude and always felt like a family to me. He is a great asset and wishing him the best!! Overall, great customer service and hospitality here and happy to be working with this excellent team.
Hi Prabhanand, we’re thrilled to get this kind of feedback.Thank you for taking the time to review us. We will share this with the team!
October 21, 2022
The entire team at Volvo of Richmond was wonderful, pleasant, and friendly. They definitely know their cars. We did purchase a XC90 and Rusty was ou...
The entire team at Volvo of Richmond was wonderful, pleasant, and friendly. They definitely know their cars. We did purchase a XC90 and Rusty was outstanding!!!! I looked for the perfect car for a long time and Rusty made all the difference. If you are looking for the best place to purchase a car Volvo of Richmond is a must.
Hi Edwin, that’s wonderful to hear. Thanks so much for leaving us a review. See you next time!
August 16, 2018
I have a 2007 Volvo XC90 which I absolutely love and owe that partially to the service team at Volvo of Richmond. The entire team (Rob, Bucky and Way...
I have a 2007 Volvo XC90 which I absolutely love and owe that partially to the service team at Volvo of Richmond. The entire team (Rob, Bucky and Wayne) have always provided me with exceptional service. I am confident in their service repair recommendations and know they will stand behind the work preformed. From maintenance, tires and detailing I could not be more confident in the team performing the work. I feel I pay a fair price for quality service - you get what you pay for. I would highly recommend Volvo of Richmond to anyone - even non-Volvo owners. I am so impressed with their level of service and attention to detail - I will remain a Volvo owner for life!
I am so glad you love your Volvo and that our service team takes great care of you. Thank you for the wonderful review, and we love that you will be a Volvo owner for life. - The Team At Volvo Cars Richmond
1For more information, please visit the official US government source for all fuel economy at www.fueleconomy.gov.
219 city/25 highway/21 combined city/hwy MPG (insert model here). EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors including your driving habits and vehicle condition.
3This is a hybrid plug in vehicle. Since electricity is not measured in gallons, a conversion factor is used to translate the fuel economy into miles per gallon of gasoline equivalent (MPGe). Use for comparison purposes only. Your MPGe will vary for many reasons, including but not limited to, driving conditions, how and where you drive, how you maintain your vehicle battery-package/condition, and other factors. For more information, including information on MPGe, see www.fueleconomy.gov
4When properly equipped.
5Prices shown are Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), Base Price or Starting At price and excludes destination fees, taxes, title, license, and registration and/or electronic filing fees, dealer fees.
6Price excludes $1,195 destination, taxes, title, other options and dealer changes. Dealer sets actual price.
7Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit NHTSA.
8Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit NHTSA.
9Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit NHTSA.
10Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit NHTSA.