The Audi Q range is well known for the distinct SUVs that are high-class in performance and reliability. All Q models Audi has released have been pretty faultless. All offer luxury, space, and convenience for the everyday driver. Yet, some cost substantially more than the rest.
All come with similar features, cutting-edge technology, and the legendary Quattro four-wheel-drive system. So, we wonder why the Q7 is costing $11,000 more than the Q5 model. Is it down to the size or are them some extra cool features in the Q7?
Let's take a closer look at why the Q7 costs $11K more than the Q5.
An Overview Of the Audi Q5
The original Q5 from Audi in 2008 was one of their best-sellers. In 2021, they are replacing it with a second-generation model with the all-new Q5. This mid-size SUV is due to be better than the previous model. In appearance, it looks pretty similar. But, it does offer more fun and features than before. Plus, it weighs almost 97kg less than the last model, which is ideal for smoother driving.
Audi's 2021 Q5 offers its customers four variations, the Sport, S Line, Edition 1, and Vorsprung. Its base model, the Q5 Sport boasts a 2-liter Sport TDI Quattro S Tronic engine, which can max out at 0 to 62 mph in 7.6 seconds. It is available as a 7-speed transmission diesel for its base model, which can reach top speeds of 218km/h.
For technology, the Q5 is pretty cool. It has two digital screens. One in the dashboard, an MMI navigation system, as opposed to the standard speedos and rev-counter. Then, there is a larger screen that offers infotainment features, such as music, rear parking cameras, and controls.
The wheels are 18-inch dynamic design alloy wheels on the base Sport model, which can be upgraded on each model. The best wheels available for the Q5 are the 21-inch offset design Audi Sport alloy wheels on the Vorsprung edition.
An Overview Of The Audi Q7
What's so different about the Q7 that makes it $11,000 more? Let's take a look.
The latest Q7 is an upgrade from the first-generation, which was released in 2005. This model is also available in four variations, all the same names apart from the 'Edition' model being called 'Black Edition' as opposed to 'Edition 1', like the Q5.
Audi's Q7 offers big wheels for its base Sport model, with 19-inch design alloy wheels. The infotainment system is pretty similar, with a virtual dashboard screen and tech features.
One clear difference is a slightly bigger engine. The Q7 offers drivers a 45 TDI Quattro Tiptronic, which is a 3-liter V6 diesel engine that offers up to 231 hp, which is more powerful than the Q5.
The Q7 offers more space than the Q5, which is a pull for large families. The Q5 model has two rows that can seat up to five passengers. Whereas the Q7 has three rows and can seat up to seven passengers. However, this doesn't exactly reflect their overall space for each person. The Q5 model actually has more headroom, while the Q7 offers more leg and shoulder room.
Due to more room and a bigger engine, the Q7 clearly carries more weight. If you are in the market for space, the Audi Q7 might be the better option. But, if you are in the market for speed, the Q5 can pick up speed quickly as it's lighter.
Why The Price Difference?
It appears that the price difference is largely down to the extra space and seats the Q7 provides. Is it worth $11,000 more? That's up to you to decide. But, it is safe to say that they offer very similar speeds. Although the Q7 offers a slightly bigger engine, it picks up speed slower because of the extra weight.
An extra $11,000 may seem pretty steep to some. But, for those that need the extra seats, you may only have that option. The Audi Q7 is a very practical, reliable, and convenient model. It is a great family car that can deal with various terrains, weathers, and be useful for daily drivers or long trips.
If you can cope with fewer seats yet similar features and design, the Audi Q5 might be a better option for you if you want to save money. It will also save you money on fuel, as it has a slightly smaller engine that requires less diesel than the Q7.
If money is your decision-maker, the Audi Q5 may be the better option. But, if you have a large family or like the idea of having a larger ride, the Q7 will be a winner for you.
Both cars offer very similar features, convenience, and fun. Both are reasonable size SUVs that are ideal for daily driving. The $11,000 price difference is quite a big step, but if space is what you need, the Q7 stands out as a winner.