Comparing Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7: Luxury SUVs Side By Side

Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7 Performance

The 2026 Volvo XC90 offers two powertrains that are both built with the same efficient mild-hybrid architecture, as well as one with plug-in performance. The base B5 AWD setup features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 247 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque while earning an EPA-estimated 22/27/24 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).¹ Meanwhile, the available B6 AWD builds on this design by adding a supercharger, boosting output to 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque while only slightly lowering fuel efficiency: 20/26/23 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).²

If you're seeking even greater electrified performance, the new Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid is the perfect choice. Building on the mild hybrid, its T8 eAWD plug-in hybrid powertrain combines a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a robust battery-and-motor system to deliver an impressive 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque.

While the Volvo XC90 offers three engine choices, the Audi Q7 comes with just two. Its base powertrain is a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 261 horsepower, while the upgraded option is a 3.0-liter turbo V-6 that produces 335 horsepower.

Both engines perform well, but the Audi Q7 lacks a plug-in hybrid variant, something the Volvo XC90 has. The most fuel-efficient setup in the Audi Q7 lineup is the 2.0-liter engine, which earns an EPA-estimated 20/26/22 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).³ That's reasonable for a three-row SUV, but it falls short compared to the gas mileage numbers of the Volvo XC90. Especially the Volvo XC90 PHEV, which earns a rating of 58 MPGe (Combined)⁴ from the EPA, even with its dominant powertrain output.

So far in our Audi Q7 vs. Volvo XC90 review, the Volvo SUV has clearly stood out in the performance category, boasting a trio of powerful yet fuel-efficient engines. Next, let's take a closer look at these vehicles' interiors. If you've already decided that a new Volvo three-row luxury SUV is for you, though, check out our Volvo XC90 lease deals.

Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7 Technology and Safety

Volvo Cars has long been known for its commitment to safety when manufacturing its vehicles, and that holds true for its flagship sport-ute. The 2026 Volvo XC90 luxury three-row SUV comes standard with the following driver-assistance technologies:

• Rain Sensor
• Pilot Assist
• Front and Rear Park Assist
• Rear Park Assist Camera
• Road Sign Information
• Lane Keeping Aid
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Blind Spot Information System (BLIS™) and Cross Traffic Alert
• Oncoming Lane Mitigation
• Rear Collision Mitigation Support
• Slippery Road Alert
• Whiplash Injury Protection
• Intelligent Driver Information System

This comprehensive suite of safety systems will help keep you and your loved ones safe on the road, no matter if you're driving around town in Delray Beach, FL, or across this great country. The 2026 Audi Q7 has some of these features as standard, such as lane guidance. Still, others, including Oncoming Lane Mitigation, are unavailable or accessible only on higher-end, much more expensive trims.

The Volvo XC90 also has more sophisticated infotainment technology than the Audi Q7. The Volvo SUV utilizes an 11.2-inch touchscreen on the center console for infotainment and a 12.3-inch customizable driver display for vehicle information and navigation. The Audi virtual cockpit plus® is also a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that's tucked behind the steering wheel. However, where infotainment and climate can be controlled from a single tablet-style, floating display in the Volvo XC90, the Audi Q7 uses two smaller screens. The climate one in particular is tucked below the center console and not exactly easy to see while driving, making the cabin of the Audi Q7 feel inconvenient for all but the most technophilic drivers.