Volvo XC90 vs Audi Q7
The Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7 debate is a tough one, because both are exceptional seven-seaters. We pitch them head-to-head.
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By Craig Hale
Last updated: 9 June 2025
When it comes to big, luxurious family movers, the Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7 is a battle of the best.
Both offer seven well-proportioned seats, posh interiors and plenty of tech, but they go about it in very different ways, so which one deserves a spot on your driveway?
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XC90 vs. Q7
Our guide will answer:
Is the Volvo XC90 or Audi Q7 better to drive?
Does the Volvo XC90 or Audi Q7 have better tech?
Which car has the better styling?
Is the Volvo XC90 or Audi Q7 more reliable?
What are the Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7 dimensions?
Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7: styling
 "Side-by-side shot of dark blue Volvo XC90 and red Audi Q7")
When it comes to styling, the Volvo XC90 and Audi Q7 take very different approaches to turning heads.
The XC90 leans into Scandinavian minimalism, with clean lines, 'Thor's hammer' headlights and an understated design that whispers rather than shouts – even though it's a rather large SUV with upright proportions.
On the flip side, the Audi Q7 is bolder and breather, with a huge grille and sharper edges. If you want to let people know you've arrived, the Q7 certainly makes an impression. But, compared with the Volvo, this Audi has less conventional SUV proportions and more of a sporty, aerodynamic look to it.
Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7: what are they like to drive?
 "Side-by-side shot of dark blue Volvo XC90 and red Audi Q7")
Behind the wheel, the Volvo XC90 is all about calm confidence. It whispers along with a focus on comfort and ride quality, so you'll feel like you're wafting along countryside roads and village speed bumps.
It's exclusively available with 2.0-litre engines, be it petrol or diesel, mild hybrid or plug-in hybrid, so there's a noticeable boost to fuel economy too, compared with the Audi Q7 which is generally specced with 3.0-litre units. They pack an effortless punch, but they also consume more fuel in general.
In terms of driving dynamics, the Audi Q7 brings a sportier edge, with firmer suspension that feels planted in corners and sharper steering for a more agile response.
Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7: interior and technology
 "Side-by-side shot of dark blue Volvo XC90 and red Audi Q7")
Step inside the Volvo XC90 and that calm, minimalist vibe continues. The dashboard is dominated by a portrait-oriented touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster and absolute top-drawer materials – high-spec models are adorned with leather, wood, crystal... the lot.
The Audi Q7 is more of a tech-fest inside, with dual touchscreens in the centre depending on the model year. The virtual cockpit digital instrument cluster also integrates with these for full mapping and audio control. Being Audi's flagship seven-seater SUV, it's also packed with high-quality materials.
Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7: boot space and practicality
 "Side-by-side shot of dark blue Volvo XC90 and red Audi Q7")
Volvos have long been known for their huge boots, and if it's hauling IKEA flatpacks from A to B that you need, then the XC90 still delivers. The facelifted model, introduced in 2024, has a huge 1,856-litre boot with the two rear rows of seats folded flat. Even in five-seat mode, it has a colossal 680-litre boot.
That's already a lot of space, but if you need more volume, consider the Audi Q7, which has a 780-litre boot in five-seat mode (extending to 1,908 litres with the middle row also folded).
Remember that plug-in hybrid variants of both models have less boot space to make room for the extra batteries.
Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7: safety and reliability
Let's face it, if safety is high on your list, a Volvo XC90 is basically the automative equivalent of sitting in a padded room in full protective gear. The company's 'Vision 2020' involved ending all fatalities in Volvo-involved accidents, and the XC90 was fatality-free since its launch in 2002.
The Audi Q7 also has a strong reputation for safety, matching its rival's five-star Euro NCAP safety rating.
In terms of reliability, Volvo tends to edge slightly ahead with strong owner satisfaction, but both premium SUVs have strong all-round reliability track records.
Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7: dimensions
Volvo XC90
Length: 4,953mm
Width: 2,140mm
Height: 1,767mm
Boot space: 680 litres
Audi Q7
Length: 5,072mm
Width: 2,212mm
Height: 1,734mm
Boot space: 780 litres
Verdict: Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7: which should you buy?
Choosing between the Audi Q7 vs. Volvo XC90 really comes down to personality – if you prefer a calm, Scandi approach with a focus on comfort and safety, the XC90 is your match.
But if you're after something a bit sportier, techies and with a bit more punch on the road, the Q7 delivers in spades.
Either way, both brands have made top-tier seven-seater SUVs that blend family practicality with plenty of kerb appeal. We think the hardest part is saying no to one – not picking the best one.
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