2021 Audi SQ7 Review

Name: 2021 Audi SQ7
Brand: Audi

Price Range: $41,990 - $51,998

Audi SQ7 Prestige TFSI quattro 4dr SUV Exterior Shown

Great

8.2

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

If you take Audi's already excellent midsize three-row SUV, the Q7 and inject it with a big dose of turbo V8, you'd end up with the 2021 Audi SQ7. That's right, now you can have sports car-beating acceleration and bring the family along for the ride, with no compromises on comfort. This seven-passenger SUV can also tow up to 7,700 pounds, so none of your toys have to be left behind. The SQ7 is almost too good to be real.

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Average price: $45,017

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Appraise My 2021 Audi SQ7

Pros

500-hp V8 moves the SQ7 with authority
Feels nimble around turns for such a big SUV
Premium cabin design

Cons

Cramped third-row seats
Infotainment system can be distracting to use

What's new

A heated steering wheel is now standard
Executive package now includes more leather surfaces
Part of the second Q7 generation introduced for 2017

Overview

Written by automotive expert Reese Counts

1/15/2021

The 2021 Audi SQ7 is a three-row luxury performance SUV. The Q7 was already one of our favorite luxury SUVs, and that capital S front of its name means it gets a whole host of performance upgrades. Most notable of the superhero upgrades is a 4.0-liter 500-horsepower turbocharged V8. Some design tweaks also help it stand out in a crowd.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

For sale near Ashburn, VA

7 listings

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2021 Audi SQ7
Prestige 4dr SUV
$46,798
- 51,734 miles
- 7 Seats, 15 City / 21 Hwy MPG
- 19 mi away
- AWD/4WD
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in Rockville, MD
Price excludes required taxes, tag, other governmental fees but includes a dealer processing charge of $800We have taken reasonable efforts to ensure ...
Features and Specs:
17 Combined MPG (15 City/21 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
WA1VWBF73MD010339
Stock:
GMD010339
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
09-09-2026
New Listing
2021 Audi SQ7
Premium Plus 4dr SUV
$42,998
- 58,120 miles
- 7 Seats, 15 City / 21 Hwy MPG
- 148 mi away
- Delivery available*
- AWD/4WD
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in Maple Shade, NJ
Wanna drive? CarMax puts you in the driver's seat-and that includes transparency and pricing without document or processing fees. Certain cars may hav...
Features and Specs:
17 Combined MPG (15 City/21 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
WA1AWBF71MD011181
Stock:
27955386
Certified Pre-Owned:
No

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There are more and more performance variants of SUVs hitting the market each year, so the SQ7 has plenty of potential rivals. You might look at mainly two-row SUVs such as the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE and Porsche Cayenne, or you might go bigger with the BMW X7 or Mercedes GLS. Among them, the SQ7's mix of three rows of standard seating, 500 hp and relatively reasonable pricing is pretty appealing. Check out our Expert Rating to learn more and get our in-depth take on the 2021 SQ7.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

by the Edmunds Experts

Great

8.2

out of 10

We drove the 2021 Audi SQ7 on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Performance

8/10

How does the SQ7 drive? You'd never guess by looking at the SQ7 that it could smoke your Supra off the line. But move it does, needing only 3.9 seconds to hit 60 mph from a standstill. That's quick by any measure, and it's becoming more of a common thread for these modern high-performance SUVs.

The SQ7 is no lightweight at 5,300 pounds, and you'll feel that weight if you try to hustle it through corners. But it moves respectably well and stops with confidence and grace. We like how accurate the steering is and its ability to relay when the front tires have exceeded their grip limits. When you're not in a hurry, the SQ7 delivers smooth and easy driving, with the exception of its stop-start system. Sometimes it cuts off the engine a beat too soon, leading to jerky stops, and then doesn't fire back up as smoothly as some other systems.

Comfort

9/10

How comfortable is the SQ7? Despite its performance persuasion, the SQ7 delivers an abundance of everyday comfort. Credit goes largely to an excellently tuned air suspension. It manages to soak up road irregularities like a sponge without making the ride feel like Jell-O in the process. Our Prestige trim tester also included dual-pane windows that greatly reduced the ambient wind and surrounding noise. Thankfully, the growl of the 4.0-liter V8 engine is present when you want to hear it.

The SQ7 seats have excellent adjustability, providing hours of comfort on the road while offering the necessary lateral support to minimize side-to-side sloshing on a curvy road. Our tester's four-zone climate control was very effective, and the heated and ventilated front seats are significantly better than what BMW offers.

Interior

8/10

How’s the interior? Audi's bold decision to go full touchscreen on its latest infotainment interface is controversial. Some of our experts found it distracting and easy to smudge, while others found it intuitive and uncluttered. We all agree the design is, at the very least, visually appealing.

The Q7's boxy greenhouse offers excellent outward visibility and plenty of room for passengers, as long as the third row is reserved for kid use only. Same goes for getting in and out; there's plenty of head clearance complemented by a relatively low step-in height, but access to the third row is cumbersome.

Further easing the stress of parking lots is the optional 360-degree camera system that provides a host of viewing angles for maneuvering in tight spots, including a 3D image as if you're looking at the car from outside.

Technology

8.5/10

How’s the tech? The SQ7's infotainment interface is controversial, but you can't deny that the cabin tech looks fully modern and comes with plenty of features. We like that it supports wireless Apple CarPlay too. The upgraded Bang & Olufsen audio system sounds amazing, but it also costs a lot. We think the standard system should suit most buyers.

Audi's voice control system isn't as comprehensive as Mercedes' excellent MBUX system, but it's very good compared to most systems on the market. It will pull up an address or point of interest quickly, activate the driver's seat heater, or switch to a satellite radio station with ease.

Most driver aids are standard on the Prestige trim and well worth the money. We particularly like Audi's sharp 360-degree cameras that allow for multiple viewing angles, including one that looks at your vehicle from the outside.

Storage

8/10

How’s the storage? Cargo capacity ranges from 14.2 cubic feet (behind the third row) to a max of 69.6 cubic feet with all rows folded — this would be about average for a standard three-row midsize SUV, but it's generous compared to other performance SUVs. The power-folding third-row seats are a nice touch and can fold in any second-row seat position. Interior storage is less impressive — the sizable door pockets are the best for stashing stuff.

A bit rare for the class are three sets of car seat anchors across the second row and two in the third row, providing some good options for child seat placement. Audi cites a 7,700-pound towing capacity for our SQ7 with the optional tow package, which is excellent.

Fuel Economy

7.5/10

How’s the fuel economy? The SQ7 is EPA-estimated to return 17 mpg combined (15 city/21 highway). We achieved a promising 20.4 mpg on our 115-mile evaluation loop, which falls in line with those estimates. Considering the performance delivered by this V8, the fuel economy is pretty decent, matching that of the similarly sized SQ8 but besting mpg from the more powerful BMW X5 M and Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 63 S.

Value

7.5/10

Is the SQ7 a good value? It's harder to see value in vehicles at this price point because emotion will ultimately rule the day. That said, the SQ7 delivers quite a good bang for your buck. Build quality is top-notch and modern, which is typical Audi, but not at the expense of function or comfort. Ideally specced, our SQ7 would ring in at $96K, which is far less than some of the other offerings in this class. In other words, it feels well worth the cost of admission.

Audi's warranty is pretty typical with basic and powertrain coverage for four years/50,000 miles and roadside assistance covered for four years/unlimited miles.

Wildcard

8.5/10

The SQ7 is no lightweight athlete, but it can still move around corners with surprising speed if you approach it with some finesse. The engine is surprisingly potent and makes wonderful noises, which is more than half of the fun. The optional sport package with torque vectoring and active roll control would make this a real party.

It's no secret that Audi pens some of the cleanest vehicle shapes in the industry. The SQ7 is beautiful, though it might be too subtle for some. It still scores high here for erring on the side of subtlety rather than exuberant flash.

2021 Audi SQ7 trim level differences

The 2021 Audi SQ7 offers two trim levels: Premium Plus and Prestige. Both are powered by a turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine (500 horsepower, 568 lb-ft of torque) paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Performance between the two trims is identical; the Prestige just offers more standard features. Compare the 2021 Audi SQ7 trim levels in-depth.

Which SQ7 trim does Edmunds recommend?

Of the two available trims, we suggest going with the base Premium Plus model. It comes with plenty of standard features such as an adaptive suspension, LED lighting and a premium audio system. We also recommend adding the optional Driver Assistance package since it includes must-have driver aids such as adaptive cruise control.

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$358/mo

$330/mo

Avg. Large SUV

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Reliability

The 2021 Audi SQ7 has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and 6 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.

Recalls

6 recalls found

Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.

If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).

Recall Number:: 25V900000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 90TV
Manufactured from:: 2021-03-26 to
Number of vehicles affected:: 356649
Defect Description:: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2026 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. A software error may prevent the rearview camera image from displaying as intended. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Defect Consequence:: A rearview image that does not display reduces the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will update the software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 14, 2026. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 90TV. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on December 23, 2025.

Recall Number:: 25V201000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 90VC
Number of vehicles affected:: 44387
Defect Description:: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 SQ8, A6 SEDAN, A7, A8, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, S6 SEDAN, S7, S8, A6 Allroad, and SQ7 vehicles. Due to a software error, the instrument panel display may fail.
Defect Consequence:: An instrument panel display that fails to show critical safety information, such as the speedometer or warning lights, increases the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will update the instrument panel module software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 24, 2025. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 90VC.

Recall Number:: 22V742000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 91DZ
Number of vehicles affected:: 170296
Defect Description:: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A8, RS7, RS6 Avant, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, Q8, Q7, Q5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, Q5, A7, A6, A6 Allroad, A5 Sportback, A5 Coupe, A5 Cabrioleet, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, SQ7, S5 Cabriolet, E-Tron Quattro, SQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ5, S8, S7, S6 Sedan, S5 Sportback, S5 Coupe, 2022 E-Tron GT, and 2021-2022 RSQ8 vehicles. Due to a software issue, a blank or black screen may be displayed instead of the rearview camera image when the vehicle is placed in reverse gear. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Defect Consequence:: A blank rearview camera display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will update the infotainment unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 25, 2022. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91DZ.

Recall Number:: 22V034000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 42L5
Number of vehicles affected:: 31058
Defect Description:: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi A5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS5 Sportback, S5 Sportback, 2020-2021 A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, Q5, S4 Sedan, S5 Coupe, S5 Cabriolet, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, 2021 Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, and SQ8 vehicles. The rear axle alignment may not have been inspected after the repairs for Recall 21V-295 (42L1) were performed.
Defect Consequence:: Rear axle misalignment may cause premature or uneven tire wear, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will inspect the rear axle, adjust the alignment as necessary, and replace any prematurely or unevenly worn tires, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 3, 2022. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 42L5.

Recall Number:: 21V606000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 69CR, 69CS
Number of vehicles affected:: 45496
Defect Description:: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Volkswagen ID4, Audi A4 Allroad, A4 Sedan, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A5 Sportback, A6 Allroad, A6 Sedan, A7, A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q3, Q5, Q5 Sportback, Q7, Q8, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, RS6 Avant, RS7, RSQ8, S4 Sedan, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, S5 Sportback, S6 Sedan, S7, S8, SQ5, SQ5 Sportback, SQ7, SQ8, and 2021-2022 S3 Sedan vehicles. The rear seat belt automatic locking retractors may deactivate early, which can prevent the child restraint system from securing properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Defect Consequence:: An unsecured child restraint system can increase the risk of injury during a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will inspect, and replace as necessary, the middle-rear seat belt assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed August 27, 2021. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at 1-800-893-5298 and Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's numbers for this recall are 69CR (VW) and 69CS (Audi).

Recall Number:: 21V339000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: 10G9
Number of vehicles affected:: 15
Defect Description:: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2021 Audi SQ7, RSQ8, RS7, RS6 AVANT, and SQ8 vehicles. Cracks may develop on the surface of the engine cylinder bore.
Defect Consequence:: Cracks may cause engine damage and a stall or an oil leak, increasing the risk of a crash or fire.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will replace the engine, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 9, 2021. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 10G9.

Warranty

4 years / 50,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 12 years / unlimited miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 4 years / unlimited miles

Audi SQ7 Reviews

Owner Reviews

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1 reviews

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2021 SQ7 Features & Specs

Trim:

Premium Plus

Est. Market Value	$39,948
Engine Type	Mild hybrid
Combined MPG	17 MPG
Cost to Drive	$358/month
Seating	7 seats
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

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Safety

Our experts like the SQ7 models:

Audi Pre Sense Front: Uses sensors at the front of the car to warn you about an imminent front collision and can automatically apply the brakes.
Audi Pre Sense Rear: Reacts to an imminent rear-end collision by tensioning seat belts, closing windows and adjusting the seats for optimal protection.
Audi Side Assist with Rear Cross-Traffic Assist and Vehicle Exit Warning: Warns you if a vehicle is lurking in your blind spot and alerts passengers about to exit the car to approaching vehicles.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
OverallNot Rated
DriverNot Rated
PassengerNot Rated
Side Crash Rating
OverallNot Rated
Side Barrier Rating
OverallNot Rated
DriverNot Rated
PassengerNot Rated
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front SeatNot Rated
Back SeatNot Rated
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover15.7%

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