What's the difference?
I’ll be honest with you, Audi is not a car brand I’ve had much to do with. I was a total newbie when I slid into the front seat of the new SQ7 TFSI but what an introduction to the brand!
The SQ7 is in the ‘large performance SUV’ category but it does have tough competition from the likes of the BMW X5 M60i and Range Rover Sport P530.
Its rivals are from brands that are well-established at the forefront of luxury and performance, so, does the SQ7 hold its own? My little family and I have been testing it for the last week to find out for you.
The Kia EV9 has landed and it’s a big bruiser-looking thing; all squared edges with a healthy dose of swagger thrown in.
It’s an upper-large SUV that can comfortably host a family of seven and features trimmings to rival a Christmas tree but it’s also the most expensive Kia to ever launch in Australia.
Did I mention it’s also only one of two cars in its class? That’s right, the nearest competitor is the all-electric Mercedes-Benz EQS450 SUV.
Yep, the Kia EV9 is fully electric but built like a tank. Yet is it breaking new ground or is it just the Carnival dolled up and sitting on electric underpinnings?
I’ve been driving it for the a week with my family of three to find out.
The Audi SQ7 TFSI is a delight to drive. You can’t fault its handling or power and drivers who want that sort of performance will not be disappointed. However, for the price point I was hoping for sweeter ongoing ownership costs and terms. It's missing a few family-orientated amenities, particularly in the middle row, but it’s big enough to accommodate a large family and all of its gear. So, I give this an 8.0/10.
My son thought the red paintwork and engine were pretty cool and he also gives it an 8.0/10.
The Kia EV9 GT-Line earns some serious family points with its practical and luxuriously appointed cabin. Each row enjoys ample amenities and space and you can’t discount the ability to fit five child seats!
That’s where similarities with its Carnival sibling end because the driving performance is too mixed for my liking. Some of its safety features don’t react well in real-world situations but if you’re looking for an electric car that will fit a big family, this ticks that box.
My son thinks the EV9 is really cool with the ambient lighting and two sun roofs. He also loves having his own climate control and sun-blinds, so he gives it a 10/10.