Audi Q7 4M (2019–2023): The long-haul verdict from behind the wheel
I’ve put plenty of miles on the Audi Q7 4M over the years—family runs, airport dashes, and one snowy detour to a mountain inn that wasn’t on the plan. The short version? The Audi Q7 4M feels like it’s been engineered by people who hate stress. Calm steering. Unflappable Quattro traction. And when I tried it on rough roads with the air suspension, it glided over potholes like they were in another timezone. It’s not perfect (more on that in a bit), but as a luxury SUV that can do school runs Monday and alpine ski weekends Saturday, it’s properly dialed in.
What changed during 2019–2023 for the Audi Q7 4M?
The 4M-generation Q7 got its big refresh around 2020: crisper exterior detailing, a new grille, and the dual-touchscreen MMI setup inside. Over the following model years, Audi quietly improved driver assists and infotainment responsiveness, and shuffled option packs. By 2023, you’re looking at a mature, well-sorted premium SUV that still feels thoroughly modern.
Engines in the Audi Q7 4M: real-world notes
- 45 TFSI (2.0-liter turbo, around 248 hp, 273 lb-ft): The quiet achiever. It’s fine around town and on light road trips; expect mid-20s mpg on the highway if you behave.
- 55 TFSI (3.0-liter V6 turbo with 48V mild-hybrid, ~335 hp, 369 lb-ft): The sweet spot. 0–60 mph in about 5.6 seconds, smooth shove from low revs, and still efficient on a cruise.
- SQ7 (4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, around 500 hp, 568 lb-ft where offered): The “oops, I bought a fast one” special. 0–60 mph in the low 4s, a lovely burble, and an appetite for fuel if you enjoy yourself.
My pick? The 55 TFSI. It has the effortless surge you want in a big, seven-seat luxury SUV without the SQ7’s thirst or sticker shock.
Audi Q7 4M ride and handling: Quattro, air suspension, and all-wheel steering
Quattro all-wheel drive is standard, and it’s the quiet hero here. On a wet hairpin I use to test SUVs, the Q7 simply grips and goes—no drama. The optional adaptive air suspension is worth it if you live with broken tarmac (I do); Comfort mode softens the edges without turning the Q7 into a floaty couch. If you can swing all-wheel steering, do it—the tighter turning circle makes parking garages a breeze and helps the Q7 feel smaller than it is.
Caveat: stick with 20- or 21-inch wheels if you value ride comfort. The 22s look ace but thump a bit on sharp impacts.
Inside the Audi Q7 4M: tech-luxe with a few quirks
Open the door and the Q7’s cabin still feels wonderfully put together—clean lines, cool ambient lighting, seats that feel like a favorite pair of slippers. The dual-screen MMI looks brilliant and the haptic clicks are satisfying… for the first week. After that, you’ll notice fingerprints and wish for a few more physical buttons for muscle-memory tasks like temp or fan speed. It’s quiet enough on the highway to hear your kids arguing about who ate the last gummy bear in the third row (which, to be honest, is where kids fit best). Adults can use it in a pinch, but knee room is tight.
Audi Q7 4M highlights at a glance
- Standard Quattro all-wheel drive for all-weather confidence
- Optional air suspension and all-wheel steering for comfort and agility
- 3-row seating with a versatile, flat cargo floor when folded
- Strong engine lineup from efficient 2.0T to muscular V6—and the hot SQ7 V8
- MMI infotainment with crisp graphics, plus a sharp Virtual Cockpit
- Available driver assists: adaptive cruise with lane guidance, 360° cameras, traffic-jam assist
Dress the cabin right: AutoWin floor mats for the Audi Q7 4M
A clean cabin changes the whole vibe. I’ve seen a few owners instantly class up their Q7 with custom mats—easy win. If you want a tailored fit, AutoWin makes premium options that actually match the Q7’s upscale mood (and they save your carpet from ski-boot slush or rogue coffee).
What I like about these:
- Precise fit for the Audi Q7 4M cabin
- Materials that stand up to winter grit and family life
- Easy to clean—hose, shake, done
- Designs that actually look premium, not “universal fit” flimsy
Audi Q7 4M vs. rivals: where it lands
| Model | Power (approx.) | 0–60 mph (approx.) | Towing (max) | Third Row | Character |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audi Q7 55 TFSI | 335 hp / 369 lb-ft | ~5.6 s | Up to 7,700 lbs | Standard | Calm, confident, tech-forward |
| BMW X5 xDrive40i | 375 hp / 383 lb-ft | ~5.2 s | Up to 7,200 lbs | Optional | Sporty, firm, sharp infotainment |
| Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 | 375 hp / 369 lb-ft | ~5.3 s | Up to 7,700 lbs | Optional | Plush, elegant, big-screen vibe |
| Volvo XC90 B6 | 295 hp / 310 lb-ft | ~6.5 s | Up to 5,000 lbs | Standard | Scandi-chic, efficient, serene |
Numbers vary by market and spec, but the gist is consistent: the Q7 leans into comfort and refinement, with real towing muscle and a standard third row. If you want the sportiest feel, the BMW edges it; for plushness, the Benz. The Audi splits the difference with quieter competence.
Ownership notes: reliability, running costs, and quirks
- Common hiccups I’ve seen or heard: occasional air-suspension faults on higher-mileage examples, minor electrical gremlins (sensor warnings, sporadic MMI resets). Nothing widespread, but worth a pre-purchase inspection.
- Service smart: keep software updated and watch for TSBs; the Q7 is happiest when its electronics are current.
- Tires and brakes: big wheels mean pricier rubber. Rotate religiously and avoid pothole roulette.
- Infotainment: the dual screens are slick, but smudgy. A microfiber cloth in the door pocket becomes essential kit.
Is the Audi Q7 4M the right luxury SUV for you?
If you want a luxury SUV that’s quiet, composed, and properly versatile, the Audi Q7 4M is still a gold-standard pick. It’s the one I recommend to friends who value comfort and subtlety over theatrics. Add a set of tailored floor mats from AutoWin and you’ve got the full understated-luxury look—plus easy cleanup when life happens.
FAQ: Audi Q7 4M (2019–2023)
- What are common problems on the Audi Q7 4M? A few owners mention air-suspension issues on older/high-mileage cars, plus occasional electrical gremlins (sensors, MMI restarts). Preventive maintenance and software updates help.
- Which engine is best in the Q7? The 55 TFSI V6 hits the sweet spot of power and efficiency for most drivers. The 2.0T is fine for city life; the SQ7 V8 is for enthusiasts who don’t mind the fuel bill.
- What changed for the 2023 Q7? Subtle styling and tech updates, plus package reshuffles to keep features competitive. The core formula—refined ride, strong V6, excellent Quattro—remains.
- How much can the Q7 tow? Up to 7,700 lbs (U.S. spec) when properly equipped. Check your market’s tow ratings and hitch package.
- Is the third row usable for adults? In a pinch, yes, for short trips. It’s best for kids or smaller adults; otherwise, fold it for generous cargo space.
