Like every other luxury-minded European carmaker, Audi has a full portfolio of utility vehicles to choose from, including big ones like the Q7 and big fast ones like this SQ7. 2025 brings a host of updates for this still V8-powered prestige performer, and we can’t wait to check it all out.

Audi’s largest SUV, the seven-passenger Q7, launched way back in 2007; but it wasn’t until 2020, well into its second generation, that it got the proper high-performance treatment with an SQ7 version. Well, it’s time for the 2025 model year, and while the SQ7 is still rockin’ through its second gen, Audi is cranking it up when it comes to style and tech.

All Q7s get revised styling for 2025 with modernized front and rear fascias, along with updated and now customizable LED lighting. Up front, lower aero treatments are slightly reshaped, and Audi’s Singleframe grille gets new patterns that are unique for Q7 and SQ7. In back, there’s a more aggressive looking rear diffuser that better integrates some new exhaust tips. And rounding it out are some fresh color choices and five new wheel designs. In addition to the unique grille, SQ7s feature additional aero treatments throughout, quad exhaust tips, and larger brakes behind 21-inch wheels, which can be optioned up to these 22s.

Tech updates come by way of better smartphone integration into the MultiMedia Interface, with the ability to not only use more third-party apps but download them directly to the vehicle. It’s all done through Audi’s latest MMI setup which features an in-dash infotainment touchscreen, a smaller touch panel just below for climate controls and additional functions such as handwriting recognition, and, of course, a 12.3-inch virtual cockpit for the driver.

There are some minor material upgrades throughout, and more uniqueness to coincide with trim levels; plus, some new available packages to further customize the space. All Q7s are outfitted for seven passengers with plenty of adult-size room in the second-row bench; the third row, it’s best left to the kids.

All of that is indeed great, but the star of this show remains what’s under the SQ7’s hood. Oh yeah, Audi still believes in V8s, and this is a great one, the same 4.0-liter twin-turbo engine used by Porsche and even Lamborghini in their SUVs. Here in Audi tune, it delivers 500 horsepower along with 568 lb-ft of torque. And wow this thing is quick, like EV quick, taking off much faster than you’re expecting. At Mason Dixon Dragway it hooked up easily, pounced off the line, and pulled hard the whole way down the strip. We hit 60 in a mere 3.8 seconds.

Audi keeps the Tiptronic name alive for their eight-speed automatic transmission and it slams through the first few gears quite aggressively, easing off a little in higher ones. That V8 made all the right noises throughout the quarter-mile but without being too loud. 12.4 at 111 mph was our best time.

SQ7s get a unique sport-tuned adaptive air suspension, and it almost eliminated all body roll through our handling course, helping this big utility feel more like a small sports car. Quattro all-wheel drive is standard on all Q7s but there is unique tuning here in the S, and we really had to push it hard to initiate any understeer. The brakes came on strong as soon as we started to press the pedal in our panic braking runs, stopping us from 60 in an impressive 94 feet. There was some nosedive, but absolutely no discernable fade.

For all its performance, the ride quality is sublime, never harsh, making for a very enjoyable drive home from the track. It also feels built like a tank, weighing more than 5,000 lbs., though that substantial structure allows for towing up to 7,700-lbs.

Government Fuel Economy Ratings are 15 City, 21 Highway, and 17 Combined. We averaged a good 20.1 mpg of Premium in our driving loop. As far as high-performance SUVs go, the SQ7’s starting price of $92,095 for Premium Plus trim is not unreasonable. You can upgrade to Prestige trim for $98,195.

While not exactly commonplace, high-performance SUVs have seemingly been coming at us from all sorts of brands lately, from luxury to mainstream– which is the direction of choice for Audi, bringing the premium driving experience closer to attainable levels. So, if you’re looking for high levels of luxury, combined with raucous V8 performance, in a vehicle that can still comfortably haul the family, the 2025 Audi SQ7 is eagerly waiting to deliver.