Audi Q7 2026 review: 45TFSI

Audi’s Q7 45 TFSI is the new entry-grade in the brand’s big seven-seater SUV line-up.

The big deal about that is it offers a way into the Q7 range for less money. And while that sounds great it also sounds like this Q7 might not come with all the features the more expensive Q7s have. That was on our mind when we tested the 45 TFSI recently.

The Q7 45 TFSI has a list price of $108,815 which is a lot more affordable than the next grade up 45 TDI at $120,530 and the petrol 55 TFSI for $136,815.

Having spent a few days living with the 45 TFSI and knowing the Q7 range quite well, it's easy to see what’s different about this Q7 compared to the rest.

Probably the most noticeable difference is the engine. The 45 TFSI is the first Q7 to have a four-cylinder petrol engine. Until now Q7s have only been V6 diesel and petrol or a V8 petrol. 

If you’re used to the feeling of V6- and V8-powered SUVs you’re going to notice the ‘missing’ cylinders in this 45 TFSI. While the specs say the turbo-petrol four-cylinder produces a very reasonable 185kW and 370Nm and 0-100km/h acceleration is a fairly quick 7.3 seconds, this engine feels out of place in a two-tonne SUV and appears to work hard to pull it around.

That hard work means a biggish thirst, too. After three days and 150km covering mainly city roads with some motorway kays thrown in average (dash indicated) fuel consumption was 13.8L/100km.

While the big effortless grunt isn’t there, like any Q7 the 45 TFSI drives superbly well with air suspension providing a comfortable ride but also dynamic handling. The steering is exceptional in its accuracy and feel.

The 45 TFSI is also all-wheel drive and that’s a relief because a two-wheel drive Q7 while fine would lose the nice planted feel the Audi quattro system brings.

As for the 45 TFSI’s standard features there’s not a lot missing compared to higher grades. I noticed straight away the lack of privacy glass for the rear windows, and as soon as I started driving realised there isn't a head-up display, either. They aren’t essential items but probably the first two things I’d option.  

The rest of the features list is quite generous. Coming standard are 20-inch alloys in 'Graphite Grey', adaptive air suspension, matrix LED headlights, multiple drive modes, proximity unlocking, leather upholstery, heated and power adjustable front seats, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, a 10.1-inch central media screen, 12.3-inch digital driver display, a 10-speaker stereo and sat nav plus wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

There's also all the safety kit standard you would expect, from AEB and lane keeping assistance to blind spot warning and front and rear parking sensors.

The only option on our test car was the 'Mythos Black Metallic' paint ($2400).

The 45 TFSI is covered by Audi’s five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty and a five-year servicing plan is available for $3820.