2027 Audi SQ7

The Audi SQ7 returns for its third generation with a new look, a little more size, and a lot more power. The SQ7 has always been the high performer of the Q7 lineup, but for 2027, it gets the kind of power once reserved for its ultra-high-performance RS Q8 two-row counterpart. The SQ7's potent V8 now makes 591 horsepower, a nearly 20% increase from before. That's what the RS Q8 (now up to 631 hp) made just a few years ago. The SQ7's low-end thrust is also up about 4%. Audi says the extra power makes the SQ7 reach 60 mph in 3.7 seconds, a blazing speed for a 5,000-pound SUV (and one that can also tow up to 7,700 pounds). 

Underneath, the SQ7 has just as much space between the front and rear wheels as the old model, but it's slightly shorter, wider, and nearly 3 inches taller, mostly in the back. A straighter roofline and boxier profile also give the SQ7 more rear headroom than before, picking up about an inch in the second row and 2 inches in the third row. While that gives taller passengers some breathing room, legroom in the third row remains the same, which is pretty marginal. For proper adult-size space to spread out in the back row, you'll want Audi's larger new Q9 or SQ9 SUV. On the upside, the SQ7 now offers a couple more cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. Inside, all the typical Audi richness carries over, with leather-wrapped panels, multiple displays, dimmable sunroof panels and, for the first time, optional second-row captain's chairs.

The SQ7 is the first volley in a rival refresh, as the midsize BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE also undergo similar overhauls for 2027. The Benz AMG GLE 53 switches to a plug-in hybrid powertrain, offering 577 hp, all-electric driving at up to 87 mph, and an optional third row. BMW hasn't offered many details about the next V8-powered X5, but we'd expect it to improve on the current 523-hp M60i. The catch? The current model doesn't come with a third row. For a rugged three-row alternative, the Land Rover Defender 130 matches up well in style and luxury touches, and it makes up for its power shortfall (493 hp) with impressive off-road ability. For less powerful but still premium SUVs, the Lexus TX 550h+, Genesis GV80 and Volvo XC90 (or its EX90 electric counterpart) are all worth a look.