2026 Volvo XC90 Vs. Audi Q7: Which Luxury SUV Comes Out On Top?

Those ready to relax in the lap of luxury should check out our Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7 guide. These two three-row luxury SUVs are incredibly comfortable, with the Audi Q7 well-known for its responsive engines and enticing digital cockpit. However, as soon as you climb behind the wheel of the Volvo XC90 at Volvo Cars of Virginia Beach, you'll quickly notice the exceptional Scandinavian design, exclusive amenities, and third-row legroom that make the Volvo SUV the clear pick for your growing family.

2026 Volvo XC90 vs. 2026 Audi Q7 Price & Trims

We begin with price, and the edge tilts toward the Volvo XC90 as you move up the trims. The Audi Q7 starts at $62,000¹ – essentially the same as the Volvo XC90. However, the Audi Q7 has four trims, with the Prestige Sport Plus variant starting at $81,700.¹

Our Volvo XC90 deals typically start at $62,345,² which puts both models in the same price category. However, the Volvo XC90 only has three trims (Core, Plus, and Ultra), with the highest reaching $70,945² – more than $10,000 less when compared to the most expensive Audi Q7.

Audi Q7 vs. Volvo XC90 Specs & Performance

Let's digitally open the hoods of these models. The Audi Q7 offers elevated performance, featuring an array of engines ranging from 261 to 500 horsepower.

However, the 2026 Volvo XC90 prioritizes utility. That starts with the 5,000-pound standard towing capacity³ (compared to the standard 4,400-pound capacity of the Audi Q7³ that requires costly upgrades to increase). The Volvo XC90 is also significantly more fuel-efficient, at 22/27/24 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).⁴ The Audi Q7 will spend gas much more quickly than the Volvo XC90.

Audi Q7 vs. Volvo XC90 Dimensions: Exterior & Interior

Now, we can close the hood and take a walk around the exterior. The Audi Q7 is the longer vehicle, at 199.6 inches. This would imply that it's the more spacious model, but that's not the case. The Audi Q7 has a very tight cargo space, at a maximum of 68.1 cubic feet with all rows folded down. It also has a fairly small third row, with 29.2 inches of legroom and 35.9 inches of headroom.

The Volvo XC90 has mastered crafting a spacious, relaxing cabin. Despite being 195 inches long, the Volvo XC90 gives you a maximum of 85.7 cubic feet to work with – perfect for moving days, vacations, and family events. The third row is also much more spacious, with 31.9 inches of legroom and 36.3 inches of headroom. This is still more appropriate for children, but teenagers and adults will be more comfortable in the back of a Volvo XC90 than an Audi Q7.

Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7 Interior & Tech

Both the Volvo XC90 and Audi Q7 have excellent cabins, though the comforts of the Volvo XC90 are designed to benefit the whole family. Amenities like standard four-zone climate control and four USB ports adorn the front, second, and third rows. You also get standard heated rear outboard seats, and you can select a six-seat configuration for greater passenger flexibility.

Meanwhile, the Audi Q7 prioritizes the digital cockpit and driver experience with available front-row massage seats, standard heated front seats, and three-zone climate control. It misses out on the mid-row heated seats of the Volvo XC90 and sports fewer temperature-control options (like the afterrun parking climate and third-row air conditioning of the Volvo XC90). Both models offer fantastic luxury, but only the Volvo XC90 has so many standard features that make the experience fun for everyone.

Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7 Safety & Driving Assistance

The final stop on our Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7 digital walkthrough brings us to safety features. The Audi Q7 does a good job protecting itself through the Audi pre sense® lineup. However, it lacks some of the benefits of the Volvo XC90 – for example, the Volvo Pilot Assist system is exceptionally comprehensive, offering driver assistance on the interstate and city streets alike. Additionally, if you want a Head-Up Display, the Volvo XC90 Ultra gets it at a much more reasonable price than the Audi Q7 Prestige.

See the Winner of the Volvo XC90 vs. Audi Q7 Comparison at Volvo Cars of Virginia Beach

With our team of friendly representatives and an easy-to-use online finance application, trying the Volvo XC90 is straightforward and without headaches. Visit our showroom and see all of these highlights yourself: we promise you and your family will fall in love.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which SUV offers better fuel economy: the Volvo XC90 or the Audi Q7?

The Volvo XC90 has better fuel economy. By default, the Volvo XC90 achieves an EPA-estimated 22/27/24 MPG (City/Highway/Combined),⁴ thanks to its impressive mild-hybrid B5 powertrain. The Audi Q7 starts at an EPA-estimated 20/26/22 MPG rating (City/Highway/Combined).⁵ And the Volvo XC90 has a plug-in hybrid variant, unlike the Audi Q7, which is even more efficient.

Which model has more cargo space and third-row comfort: the 2026 Volvo XC90 or the Audi Q7?

The 2026 Volvo XC90 is carefully crafted to maximize capacity and the third-row experience. It has a maximum storage capacity of 85.7 cubic feet, which vastly outdoes the 68.1 cubic feet of the Audi Q7. The Volvo XC90 boasts 31.9 inches of third-row legroom and 36.3 inches of headroom (vs. 29.2 inches and 35.9 inches, respectively, in the Audi Q7).

Which model provides more premium standard features for the price: the new Volvo XC90 or the Audi Q7?

While both the Volvo XC90 and Audi Q7 offer excellent standard features, the Volvo XC90 tends to have the edge in luxury and safety on the Core trim level. For example, the crystal gear selector knob by Orrefors® adds a unique touch that the Audi Q7 can't emulate. The Audi Q7 has a three-zone climate system, which pales in comparison to the four-zone setup in the Volvo XC90.

¹Total MSRP includes destination ($1,095 for Sedans, $1,195 for SUVs incl. Sportbacks, and $1,495 for the R8 and e-tron GT). Total MSRP excludes taxes, title, other options, and dealer charges and fees. Dealer sets actual price. May vary from MSRP.

²Prices shown are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), Base Price or Starting At price and excludes destination fees, taxes, title, license, and registration and/or electronic filing fees, dealer fees.

³When properly equipped.

⁴EPA estimated range is 22 MPG city/27 MPG highway/24 MPG combined (B5 AWD). Your actual range will vary for many reasons, including but not limited to, driving conditions, how and where you drive, how you maintain your vehicle, battery-package/condition, and other factors. See https://www.fueleconomy.gov/

⁵20 city/26 highway/22 combined city/hwy MPG (2026 Audi Q7). EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors including your driving habits and vehicle condition.