DecodedCarsAudi Q7 vs Audi SQ7
2026 Audi Q7 vs 2026 Audi SQ7 — two standard SUVs compared on efficiency, size, safety and reliability.
The short version
The Audi Q7 is more fuel-efficient: 22 vs 16 MPG combined in its best version.
That works out to about $1,400 a year less in fuel for the Audi Q7 (EPA estimate, 15,000 miles).
Across all model years since 2005, the Audi SQ7 has had fewer recall campaigns (11 vs 31).
The two cars
The 2026 Audi Q7 is a standard SUV offered with 2 engines (2.0L 4-cyl turbo and 3.0L 6-cyl turbo), including a hybrid version and all-wheel drive. It measures about 199 inches long and 78 inches wide on a 118-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 4,938 lb.
The 2026 Audi SQ7 is a standard SUV offered with a 4.0L 8-cyl turbo engine and all-wheel drive. It measures about 199 inches long and 78 inches wide on a 118-inch wheelbase, with a curb weight of roughly 5,280 lb.
Buying used? The 2024 Q7 and the 2020 SQ7 have the fewest problems in our data; avoid the 2017 Q7 and the 2021 SQ7.
Basics
Efficiency
Performance & space
Safety & reliability
Interest
Green = clearly better. Prices are not included. How we calculate this →
Which one should you choose?
Choose the Audi Q7 if…
- You want lower fuel bills (22 vs 16 MPG)
- You want a hybrid or electric option
Choose the Audi SQ7 if…
- You put reliability history first (11 vs 31 recalls since 2005)
Pros & cons of each
2026 Audi Q7
- Hybrid version availableOffered as a hybrid as well as gas.
- Lots of standard safety tech5 of 5 key driver aids standard on the versions we checked.
- Premium fuel requiredEvery gasoline version is rated for premium, which raises running costs.
2026 Audi SQ7
- Below-average fuel economyBest version gets 16 MPG combined, 20% below the 2026 standard SUV average of 20 MPG.
- Premium fuel requiredEvery gasoline version is rated for premium, which raises running costs.
Full 2026 Audi Q7 specs →Full 2026 Audi SQ7 specs →Compare fuel costs for your driving →Compare size & garage fit →