Audi Q7 vs Volvo XC60

The 2020 Audi Q7 presented a refreshed design with its 55 TFSI model, featuring a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine. This model, priced at $86,100 Canadian with the Technik trim, showcased updated front and rear styling, new wheels, and lighting elements that aligned it with the flagship Q8 model. Inside, the Q7 adopted a high-tech dashboard from the Q8, replacing most physical controls with three digital displays, including Audi’s Virtual Cockpit. The cabin, adorned in Okapi Brown leather and Gray/Brown Fine Grain Ash wood inlays, exuded an upscale and high-tech vibe, enhanced by multi-colour ambient lighting.

The 2021 Volvo XC60, positioned between the XC40 and XC90, was built on Volvo’s SPA platform, sharing it with other 60-series and 90-series vehicles. The XC60 featured a tailored two-box design with short overhangs and crisp body details, highlighted by the iconic Thor’s hammer LED headlights. The interior was a testament to Scandinavian design, with clean lines and authentic materials. The 9-inch portrait-oriented infotainment touchscreen was a familiar feature, and the cabin’s elegant details, like the HVAC vents, added to its near-luxury status. The XC60’s paint quality, chrome, and trim were beautifully executed, making it a stylish and comfortable choice.

The 2020 Audi Q7 55 TFSI was powered by a new 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine, producing 335 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It featured a 48-volt mild-hybrid system to conserve fuel, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro AWD. Audi Drive Select offered various driving modes, and the SUV accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds. With a maximum tow rating of 3,500 kilograms, the Q7 averaged 11.2 L/100 km during testing. The Technik trim included an adaptive air suspension, enhancing its agility and comfort on various terrains. The cabin remained quiet, thanks to dual-pane acoustic glass, making it a pleasure to drive.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 offered a range of powertrains, with the T8 Polestar Engineered model delivering 415 horsepower and 472 pound-feet of torque. This plug-in hybrid variant allowed for up to 31 kilometres of electric-only driving. The XC60’s AWD system and torque vectoring provided a solid and secure driving experience, with a serene cabin and smooth suspension. Fuel consumption for the T8 PHEV was 9.3 L/100 km combined, and 4.0 Le/100 km in electric-only mode. The XC60 was easy to drive quickly, with a quiet cabin and a comfortable ride, making it an excellent choice for road trips.

The 2020 Audi Q7, with its three rows of seats, was best suited for five passengers. The third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space to 402 litres, expandable to 1,010 litres with it folded. Maximum cargo capacity was 1,970 litres with both rows down. The Technik trim’s front seats were comfortable, and the second row offered ample legroom and climate control. However, interior storage was limited, with the centre console and dashboard screen occupying most space. The panoramic sunroof added to the Q7’s appeal, but practical storage was lacking.

The 2021 Volvo XC60 excelled in comfort and functionality, especially in winter conditions. The front seats were highly adjustable, and the heating system performed well in sub-freezing temperatures. The cabin offered smart storage solutions, with intuitive controls for passengers. The XC60 provided 613 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,410 litres. It was rated to tow up to 1,587 kilograms, making it a versatile choice for families. The XC60’s design and functionality made it a comfortable and practical vehicle for various needs.

The 2020 Audi Q7 featured the new MMI Touch Response technology, combining a 10.1-inch and an 8.6-inch touchscreen for system access. It included voice and handwriting recognition, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Audi Connect services. While the interface was generally intuitive, dry fingertips sometimes caused unresponsive virtual buttons. The Technik trim offered a head-up display and a Bose sound system, though Audi later upgraded to a Bang & Olufsen system for 2021.

The 2021 Volvo XC60’s Sensus infotainment system used a tablet-style interface, familiar to iPad users. It divided the screen into function quadrants, allowing easy access to audio, navigation, and vehicle settings. Smartphone integration included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system was exceptional, enhancing the XC60’s audio experience. While the system required a learning curve, it was intuitive once mastered.

The 2020 Audi Q7 boasted HD Matrix LED headlights, though rated "poor" by the IIHS for glare. It included advanced driving-assistance systems, such as Emergency Assist and Turn Assist. Adaptive Cruise Assist and Active Lane Assist were available, though not always reliable. The Q7 received high collision protection ratings from the IIHS, except for the headlight assessment.

The 2021 Volvo XC60, awarded a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, featured numerous safety systems. Standard features included LED headlights, blind-spot monitoring, collision avoidance, and lane-keeping aid. Volvo’s Pilot Assist offered semi-autonomous driving capabilities. The XC60’s top speed was limited to 180 km/h for safety. The T8 Polestar Engineered model added gold safety belts, emphasizing Volvo’s commitment to safety.