If you're in the market for a mid-size three-row SUV, you might be considering the Volkswagen Atlas and the Audi Q7. Discover their differences in design, performance, features, and more.
12 minutes
12.21.2023
The Volkswagen Atlas is a spacious and family-friendly SUV, that will get you plenty of space for your passengers and cargo. The Atlas is also a more fuel-efficient option compared to the Q7. On the other hand, the Audi Q7 is a more upscale and refined SUV with a sleek and aerodynamic design and premium interior materials. The following comparison will help you understand the differences in performance, towing, trims, features, and size better.
If you want to test drive both German SUVs for an extended time, then consider a FINN car subscription. With a monthly payment that includes registration, insurance, maintenance, and depreciation, you can drive a Volkswagen Atlas for six to 12 months and then switch to an Audi without the responsibility of ownership.
Two titans of German engineering square off: the Volkswagen Atlas versus the Audi Q7. Both expansive SUVs make a muscular statement while seating seven passengers in refined comfort.
Regarded as Volkswagen’s best family SUV, the fully-redesigned Atlas impresses with a roomier interior, bolder styling, and upgraded tech. New is an athletic 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine churning out 265hp and 273 lb.-ft. of torque, promising great acceleration. This powertrain pairs with a responsive 8-speed automatic transmission and is also available in a 4MOTION® all-wheel drive (AWD).
The interior of the Atlas balances sleek touches with ambient lighting and 30-color customizable gauges. Tri-zone climate controls, power-folding third row seats (seating up to seven people), and expansive cargo room give the Atlas incredible day-to-day flexibility. Notably, Volkswagen made active safety features like automated emergency braking and adaptive cruise control standard across the lineup. Trim options include the Atlas SE, SE with Technology, Peak Edition SE with Technology, SEL, Peak Edition SEL, and the SEL Premium R-Line.
The Audi Q7 is a luxurious and refined SUV that offers a more upscale driving experience. It features a sleek and aerodynamic design with an iconic Audi grille and LED headlights. The interior of the Q7 is spacious and well-designed, featuring premium materials such as leather seats and built-in navigation.
The Q7 is available with a more powerful 3.0L engine, providing a higher level of performance compared to the Atlas. However, it comes at a higher price, with a starting price between $59,500 and $90,400 for a new model, compared to the Atlas's price range of $37,725 to $52,4555. The choice between the Atlas and the Q7 ultimately depends on whether you prioritize space and affordability or a more luxurious driving experience.
When comparing the dimensions of the Audi Q7 and VW Atlas, the Volkswagen Atlas is larger than its Audi Q7 counterpart. The Atlas measures 200.7 inches in length, while the Audi Q7 stretches out to 199.3 inches. In terms of width and height, the VW Atlas also surpasses the Audi Q7, offering 78.4 inches of width and 70.1 inches of height, whereas the Audi Q7 provides 77.6 inches of width and 68.5 inches of height.
This difference in size contributes to the Atlas's more robust and boxy appearance, while the Q7 features a sleek and aerodynamic design with Audi’s iconic grille and LED headlights, contributing to its premium appearance.
Additionally, the Atlas has available hands-free easy open and close remote power rear liftgate, available illuminated front and rear VW emblem and LED taillights, and LED headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights and Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS).
Specs | VW Atlas | Audi Q7 |
Dimensions (length/width/height) | 200.7 in x 78.4 in x 70.1 in | 199.3 in x 77.6 in x 68.5 in |
The Atlas prioritizes versatility and family-focused flexibility inside. Tri-zone automatic climate control lets passengers dial in customized comfort zones. Power-folding third-row seats expand cargo space when needed or accommodate extra passengers with room to spare. Plush leatherette or Nappa leather upholstery options add durability or luxury depending on trim selections. Tech-savvy features also impress, like the customizable Digital Cockpit gauge display, Fender premium audio, integrated navigation, and app connectivity.
As Audi's flagship SUV, indulgence takes center stage within the lavish Q7 cabin. Available upgrades like massaging front seats, heated rear seats, leather everything, and quad-zone climate control coddle occupants in comfort. Conveniences like wireless charging, illuminated door sills and an Alcantara headliner elevate the sophistication as well. Large MMI touchscreens streamline access to navigation prompts, media playlists, and vehicle settings, while a Bang & Olufsen 3D Advanced Sound System envelops passengers in crisp, concert-like audio.
The following table summarizes a few notable interior specifications.
Spec | VW Atlas | Audi Q7 |
Seating capacity | 7 seats | 7 seats |
Cargo capacity (behind 3rd row/max) | 20.6 / 96.6 cu.-ft. | 14.2 / 69.6 cu.-ft. |
Upholstery | Cloth, leatherette, Nappa leather | Leatherette, leather |
Climate control zones | Tri-zone automatic | Four-zone automatic |
Audio Systems Available | 6 speakers, Harman Kardon premium sound system | 17 speakers, Bang & Olufsen 3D Advanced Sound System |
When it comes to space, the Volkswagen Atlas has the Audi Q7 beat. It generously offers 96 cubic feet of cargo room in the back, not to mention more headroom and shoulder room all around, making it a perfect companion for all your adventures and errands.
If you're after a taste of luxury, the Audi Q7 is the one to beat. Its interior is all about opulence, with genuine leather seats and a high-tech dual-screen infotainment system. The Virtual Digital Cockpit brings a futuristic twist to your driving experience.
On the flip side, the Volkswagen Atlas takes a more practical approach without compromising on comfort or style. Its seats are draped in resilient synthetic leather, and a straightforward 6.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system keeps everything at your fingertips.
Specs | VW Atlas | Audi Q7 |
Front Headroom | 41.3 in | 39.9 in |
Rear Headroom (second row) | 40.4 in | 38.8 in |
Front Legroom | 41.7 in | 41.7 in |
Rear Legroom (second row) | 37.6 in | 38.8 in |
Front shoulder room | 61.5 in | 59.5 in |
Rear shoulder room (second row) | 60.8 in | 58.5 in |
Technology | VW Digital Cockpit Pro | Virtual cockpit plus |
12" center touchscreen display | MMI touch response | |
Panoramic sunroof | 17 speakers, 730-watt Bang & Olufsen 3D Advanced Sound System | |
Available heated 1st and 2nd row outboard seating positions | Audi connect CARE | |
Wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto | Wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto | |
Available wireless charging | Wireless phone charging pad | |
Heated steering wheel | Heated steering wheel | |
30 color adjustable ambient lighting with backlit decor | Contour/Ambient LED interior lighting package, multicolor | |
Center console cargo | Comfort adaptive air suspension |
The Volkswagen Atlas offers over 96 cu.-ft. of rear cargo room, while the Audi Q7's maximum cargo capacity is 69.6 cu.-ft. In terms of towing capacity, the Atlas can tow up to 5,000 lbs., while an available towing package for the Q7 offers an impressive towing capacity of up to 7,700 lbs., along with a tow hitch receiver and 7-pin connector.
The following table provides a better understanding of how the fuel economy and performance of the Volkswagen Atlas and Audi Q7 compare.
Spec | VW Atlas | Audi Q7 |
Engine | 4-Cyl Turbo 2.0 Liter TSI | 4-Cyl Turbo 2.0 Liter TFSI® |
Horsepower (HP) | 269 HP | 261 HP |
Torque | 273 lb.-ft. | 273 lb.-ft. |
MPG (city/highway) | 21/25 mpg | 19/25 mpg |
Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
Transmission | Tiptronic 8 Speed Automatic with Manual Mode Select | Tiptronic® 8 Speed Automatic with Manual Mode Select |
Driving range | 428 miles | 495 miles |
Transmission type | Automatic | Automatic |
Fuel | Unleaded regular | Unleaded premium |
Volkswagen offers their advanced driver assistance technology-IQ.DRIVE-designed to enhance safety and provide peace of mind. This technology is available in most Volkswagen vehicles and comes standard on the Volkswagen Arteon and ID.4 EV. IQ.DRIVE includes features such as Travel Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Active Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Traffic Alert, Front Assist, Emergency Assist, and Lane Assist, all aimed at reducing stress and providing an intuitively easy ride from the highway to around town.
In addition to IQ.DRIVE, Volkswagen's Driver Assistance features include Area View, Park Distance Control with Maneuver Braking, Light Assist, Dynamic Road Sign Display, and Exit Warning System, further enhancing the driving experience and safety.
With the VW app, you can conveniently access tools and information, including service reminders, scheduling, maintenance schedules, roadside assistance requests, and remote commands when activated with VW Car-Net.
Audi also offers a range of advanced driver assistance features designed to enhance safety and provide peace of mind. The Q7 comes with a variety of these features:
The Volkswagen Atlas and Audi Q7 have different reliability ratings.
The Volkswagen Atlas has a mixed reliability record. According to a long-term test by Car and Driver, the Atlas was a mostly reliable vehicle, although some issues were reported, such as the airbag light coming on and a leaking bevel box, which were addressed under the generous six-year or 72,000-mile warranty. On the other hand, some owners have reported positive experiences with the Atlas, with no issues whatsoever.
According to iSeeCars, the reliability rating for the Audi Q7 is 7.9 out of 10, while the Volkswagen Atlas has a reliability rating of 5.7 out of 10. This gives the Audi Q7 an advantage in reliability compared to the Volkswagen Atlas. Additionally, the Audi Q7 has a higher overall quality score and reliability rating compared to the Volkswagen Atlas. Therefore, the Audi Q7 is considered to be more reliable than the Volkswagen Atlas.
The Volkswagen Atlas and Audi Q7 are priced differently, with the base Q7 starting at more than $20,000 above the base MSRP for the Atlas, making the Volkswagen a clear favorite for budget-conscious buyers.
The starting price (MSRP) for the Audi Q7 Premium 45 TFSI quattro is $59,500, while the Volkswagen Atlas 2.0T SE FWD starts at $37,725. The Audi Q7 offers a range of trims and configurations, with the Premium Plus 45 TFSI quattro being one of the available options. The Volkswagen Atlas also comes in various trims, including the 2.0-liter Turbo 4MOTION AWD (SEL Premium R-Line).
Additionally, the Audi Q7 is available with a 3.0L V6 engine (55 Prestige TFSI® quattro® and S line sport), while the Volkswagen Atlas comes with a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine.
Model Q7 | Premium | Premium Plus | Prestige |
45 quattro® Tiptronic® | $59,500 | $63,300 | - |
55 TFSI® Tiptronic® | $65,300 | $69,100 | |
55 S line sport TFSI® quattro® | - | - | $80,100 |
SQ7 TFSI® quattro® | - | $90,400 | $94,900 |
VW Atlas | SE | SE with Technology | Peak Edition with Technology | SEL | Peak Edition SEL | SEL Premium R/Line |
Price | $37,725 | $41,665 | $46,555 | $48,445 | $50,435 | $52,455 |
There are a few main differences between the Volkswagen Atlas and Audi Q7:
For shoppers focused on maximizing seven-passenger versatility and cargo flexibility, the Volkswagen Atlas makes an outstanding choice. Passengers enjoy ample room across all three rows, with family-friendly features like tri-zone climate controls, numerous charging ports, and available captain’s chairs. Storage abounds too. Behind its third row or with all seats folded, the Atlas can securely swallow gear for road trips or Home Depot runs. Topping it off, 2.0T acceleration zips the Atlas around while high-tech safety systems watch out for you. With its budget-friendly pricing, the Atlas brings premium German engineering to mainstream families without breaking budgets.
The Audi Q7 justifies its higher pricing with added luxury and technology features that enhance the three-row SUV experience. All Q7 trims accommodate seven passengers, but available upgrades exclusive to the Q7 further optimize comfort with customized amenities like heated and ventilated front seats, integrated massaging functionality and quad-zone automatic climate control allowing tailored temperature zones.
Rather than committing to just one German luxury SUV, you should consider a FINN car subscription that lets you switch between models every six to 12 months. With one monthly payment, you can drive the VW Atlas and enjoy roadside assistance, insurance, and maintenance without being tied into full ownership.
If you're considering these two German SUVs, you may have some questions about their differences and similarities.
The Volkswagen Atlas and Audi Q7 are not the same, as these SUVs come with different characteristics. The Atlas has a more boxy and rugged appearance, while the Q7 is more aerodynamic and refined. The Q7 offers a more upscale look with its iconic Audi grille and LED headlights, while the Atlas has a more traditional SUV front end with a more prominent grille. The interiors of the two vehicles are both spacious and well-designed, but the Q7 has less space inside.
These two prestigious German SUVs also come with different engine options. The Atlas is either a 2.0L turbo eight-speed automatic four-cylinder engine that produces 269 horsepower or a 3.6L V6 engine that produces 276 horsepower. The Audi Q7 is equipped with a 2.0L turbocharged I4 that gets you 261 horsepower and a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine that produces 335 horsepower.
The Volkswagen Atlas was introduced in the USA in 2017. It is based on the modular transverse toolkit (MQB) and is the largest MQB model to date. The seven-seater SUV is powered by a four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 269 HP or by a V6 unit with 276 HP.
Even though Volkswagen is one of the most iconic and renowned German car brands, the Atlas is not being manufactured in Germany. The Atlas is primarily produced at the US plant in Chattanooga (Tennessee) and is only targeted for the North American and Chinese markets.
The Volkswagen Atlas is larger than the Audi Q7. The Atlas measures 200.7 inches in length, while the Audi Q7 stretches out to 199.3 inches. In terms of width and height, the VW Atlas also surpasses the Audi Q7, offering 78.4 inches of width and 70.1 inches of height, whereas the Audi Q7 provides 77.6 inches of width and 68.5 inches of height. The Atlas also offers over 96 cu.-ft. of rear cargo room, while the Audi Q7's maximum cargo capacity is 69.6 cu.-ft.
Some of Atlas' competitors are the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Explorer, Chevrolet Tahoe, Toyota Sequoia, and Subaru Ascent. They're all similar in terms of size, features, and performance, and they compete in the same market segment as the VW Atlas.
When evaluating Volkswagen and Audi's spacious SUVs with three rows of seats, the VW Atlas makes a case for maximum flexibility at an easier-to-attain price point. It masterfully juggles passenger and cargo needs for busy families without breaking budgets. In contrast, the Audi Q7 goes luxe in pursuit of upscale sophistication. It indulges owners in lavish cabins, brimming with bespoke amenities that pamper and performance that thrills but for a premium.
Before buying an SUV, you should test drive both with a FINN car subscription. One straightforward monthly payment includes insurance, registration, routine service, and wear-and-tear coverage on your Volkswagen or Audi for terms of six or 12 months. FINN simplifies sampling an SUV, so choosing becomes easier when you're ready to commit long-term or subscribe again.
Everyone approaches buying their first car differently. Here are 10 tips for buying your first car that you can use to make the experience a positive one.
A car that’s appropriate for your body specifications is vital not only for safety but also for the enjoyment of driving. Find the best cars for petite drivers here.
Figuring out how to pay off a car loan faster requires math and critical thinking. Read on to see how to pay off your car loan quickly to get out of debt.