GMC Yukon vs Audi Q7

The 2020 Audi Q7 presented a refined and modern aesthetic, with its updated front and rear styling aligning it with the flagship Q8 model. The Q7 55 TFSI, priced at $86,100 with the Technik trim, featured 21-inch wheels and a high-tech interior. The cabin, adorned in Okapi Brown leather and Gray/Brown Fine Grain Ash wood inlays, exuded luxury. The dashboard and instrumentation borrowed from the Q8, replacing physical controls with three digital displays, including Audi’s Virtual Cockpit. The ambient lighting added a soothing vibe, enhancing the upscale and high-tech ambiance.

In contrast, the 2021 GMC Yukon Denali, priced at $93,703 with the Denali Ultimate option package, showcased a rugged yet refined design. The Midnight Blue paint and shiny 22-inch wheels contributed to its upscale appearance. The Denali trim featured exclusive dashboard design, real wood trim, leather-wrapped panels, and unique interior stitching. The Ultimate Package added a panoramic sunroof, enhancing the cabin's luxury. The Yukon Denali's design was more intricate and appealing compared to its Chevrolet counterpart, offering a sophisticated and premium feel.

The 2020 Audi Q7 55 TFSI was equipped with a new 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine, producing 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro AWD, delivered a 0-100 km/h time of 5.9 seconds. The 48-volt mild-hybrid system improved fuel efficiency, averaging 11.2 L/100 km during testing. The adaptive air suspension and Audi Drive Select offered various driving modes, enhancing the SUV's agility and comfort. Despite some throttle response issues in Comfort and Auto modes, Dynamic mode provided a more responsive drive. The cabin remained quiet, thanks to dual-pane acoustic glass.

The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali featured a 6.2-litre V8 engine, generating 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The engine delivered robust acceleration, though fuel efficiency was not its strong suit, averaging 16.3 L/100 km. The Yukon’s new independent rear suspension and Four-Corner Air Ride suspension improved ride quality and handling. The Active Response 4WD system, with its electronic limited-slip differential, enhanced cornering and traction. Despite its size, the Yukon was capable and responsive, though not particularly fun to drive.

The 2020 Audi Q7, with its three-row seating, was best suited for five passengers. The third-row seat was cramped, suitable only for children, and reduced cargo space to 402 litres. Folding it down expanded cargo capacity to 1,010 litres, with a maximum of 1,970 litres when both rows were folded. The Technik trim offered comfortable seating, with heated and ventilated front seats and a panoramic sunroof. However, interior storage was limited, with the centre console and door-panel bins providing minimal space for personal items.

The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali benefited from an independent rear suspension, increasing passenger and cargo space. The front seats, though lacking a massage function, were heated and ventilated. The second-row seats slid and folded flat, improving comfort and cargo room. The third-row seat offered actual thigh support, accommodating adults comfortably. Cargo volume was impressive, with 722 litres behind the third row, expanding to 3,480 litres with all seats folded. The power sliding console added convenience and storage solutions, enhancing the SUV's practicality.

The 2020 Audi Q7 introduced MMI Touch Response technology, featuring a 10.1-inch and an 8.6-inch touchscreen. The system included natural voice recognition, wireless Apple CarPlay, and navigation. While intuitive, the touchscreens were sometimes unresponsive due to dry fingertips. The Technik trim offered a head-up display and a Bose premium sound system, though Audi planned to upgrade to a Bang & Olufsen system for 2021.

The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali, with the Ultimate Package, featured a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system included a 14-speaker Bose Performance Series audio system, though it lacked depth. The Rear Seat Media system, with dual 12.6-inch displays, provided entertainment for passengers. The Yukon also offered a 15-inch head-up display and multiple camera views, enhancing maneuverability and safety.

The 2020 Audi Q7 was equipped with advanced driving-assistance systems, including Emergency Assist, Turn Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Assist. However, the traffic-sign recognition system was problematic, leading to unexpected braking. The Active Lane Assist was also displeasing, often feeling intrusive. The IIHS rated the Q7 highly for collision protection, though its headlights received a "poor" rating.

The 2021 GMC Yukon featured numerous ADAS, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The Denali trim offered adaptive cruise control and enhanced automatic emergency braking. The ADAS operated smoothly, providing a subtle and effective driving experience. Crash-test ratings were unavailable, but the Yukon's substantial curb weight suggested robust protection.