Audi Q7 vs Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid

The 2025 Audi Q7 showcased a refined exterior with a new front fascia, featuring standard Matrix-design LED headlamps and stylish daytime running lights. The front spoiler and rear diffuser were subtly tweaked, and the grille sported vertical inlays within its octagon frame, contributing to a more cohesive look. Customization options allowed buyers to choose different finishes for the front bumper, door trim, and rear diffuser, while the Black Optic package added black accents and Anthracite Gray Audi rings. The laser-etched badging on the B-pillar was a unique touch, and the Q7 was available in nine colours, including the new Sakhir Gold. Inside, updates were minimal, with new wood and carbon trim inlays, but limited interior colour choices. The piano black surfaces were prone to fingerprints, yet the stacked infotainment screens and expansive HVAC vents added to the car's aesthetic appeal.

In contrast, the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid adopted a conservative design, reminiscent of the previous-generation RAV4, offering a familiar yet grander appearance. The interior prioritized function over form, with a layer of luxury in the Platinum trim. Despite the use of glossy hard plastics, the controls were logically arranged, and the overall material quality was decent. The climate system was user-friendly, featuring large knobs for temperature adjustments, but the infotainment interface had a tiny volume knob and lacked a tuning knob. The Grand Highlander’s design emphasized practicality, with seating for up to eight and ample cargo space, making it a formidable competitor in the three-row SUV segment.

The 2025 Audi Q7 offered two engine choices: the 45 TFSI, a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine producing 261 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, and the 55 TFSI, a 3.0-litre turbo V6 with 335 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. The top Technik trim, equipped with the larger engine, delivered smooth power through an eight-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels. While Comfort mode prioritized efficiency, Dynamic mode aimed for sportiness but fell short in steering feedback and transmission responsiveness. The Q7 excelled in handling, thanks to available all-wheel steering, and offered various drive modes, including Individual, All Road, and Off Road. Fuel economy for the 55 TFSI was rated at 13.0 L/100 km city, 10.0 highway, and 11.7 combined, while the smaller engine offered slightly better efficiency.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max focused on performance with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine and electronic full-time AWD, producing 362 net horsepower. The six-speed automatic transmission avoided the droning typical of CVTs, providing a satisfying driving experience. The Hybrid Max traded some fuel efficiency for power, with a combined rating of 8.8 L/100 km, compared to the regular hybrid's 7.0 L/100 km. It could tow up to 2,268 kilograms, offering versatility for various needs. During testing, the Hybrid Max achieved 9.1 L/100 km on a balanced city and highway route. The powertrain delivered rewarding acceleration, while the ride quality was soft and isolating. Handling was secure, though the tires squealed early, and the vehicle felt large on mountain roads. Visibility was excellent, aided by available camera systems.

The 2025 Audi Q7 featured heated front seats across all trims, with additional amenities like a 360-degree camera, ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats in the Progressiv trim. The Technik trim added a Bang & Olufsen stereo system and rear door sunshades. The Luxury package offered a massage function for the front seats, though the duration was short. The Q7's third row was best suited for children, with limited legroom for adults. Cargo space measured 402 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,011 and 1,970 litres with the seats folded, falling short of some rivals. Small storage was limited, with a shallow centre console and door pockets.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid provided comfortable seating in all three rows, with over 2,700 litres of maximum cargo space. The Platinum trim featured a Portobello interior with leather and artificial suede upholstery, offering a premium feel. The second-row captain’s chairs allowed easy access to the third row, which accommodated adults and tall teens comfortably. Cargo space was generous, with 586 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,640 litres with the third row folded, and 2,761 litres with the second row down. The Grand Highlander excelled in practicality, though some storage areas were unlined, potentially increasing cabin noise.

The 2025 Audi Q7's Multi Media Interface (MMI) infotainment system featured a 10.1-inch centre screen with a smaller screen for HVAC controls, complemented by a digital gauge cluster. The menu was user-friendly, but the screen required a firm touch, and scrolling could be sluggish. Google Maps was integrated as the native navigation system, offering a seamless experience. The Audi App Store allowed downloads of third-party apps like Spotify and YouTube, with online navigation and traffic light information included for a trial period.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid's infotainment system included a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was easy to use, though it lacked the ability to display multiple main-menu screens simultaneously. The digital voice assistant responded accurately to commands, enhancing user experience. The Platinum trim featured a head-up display, digital rear-view mirror, and surround-view camera system. The JBL premium audio system exceeded expectations in sound quality.

The 2025 Audi Q7 was equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems, including blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. However, the lane-centring feature was inconsistent, and the system lacked the ability to change lanes automatically. The Q7 received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with top marks in side crash tests. The IIHS had not rated the 2025 model, but the 2024 model received high marks in crashworthiness.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid came with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features. The lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control provided a high level of automation, though not hands-free. Proactive Driving Assist was standard but could be intrusive. The Grand Highlander earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA but fell short of the IIHS Top Safety Pick due to headlight performance and frontal-impact protection ratings.