Volvo XC90 Vs Audi Q7: The Ultimate Luxury SUV Showdown In 2025
The premium SUV segment in India is heating up with the launch of the 2025 Volvo XC90, an updated version of the Swedish automaker’s flagship luxury SUV. With refreshed styling, a feature-packed cabin and enhanced technology, the new XC90 takes on well-established rivals like the Audi Q7. While both SUVs cater to buyers seeking luxury, performance and advanced safety, they offer distinct driving experiences and features. In this detailed comparison, we analyse how the Volvo XC90 stacks up against the Audi Q7 in terms of price, engine performance, features and overall value.
Variants and Pricing
The Volvo XC90 is available in a single ‘Ultra’ variant, priced at ₹1.03 crore (ex-showroom). This marks a price hike of ₹2 lakh over its predecessor. On the other hand, the Audi Q7 offers a more flexible range with two trims: the Premium Plus variant priced at ₹88.66 lakh and the Technology variant at ₹97.81 lakh (both ex-showroom). Even the top-end Q7 is priced lower than the XC90, making it a more affordable option in the segment.
Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the 2025 Volvo XC90 features a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, mild-hybrid turbo-petrol engine producing 250 hp and 360 Nm of torque. Power is sent to all four wheels via an 8-speed automatic gearbox. Volvo claims a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 7.7 seconds, while the SUV has an electronically limited top speed of 180 km/h.
The Audi Q7, in contrast, is powered by a larger and more powerful 3.0-litre, turbocharged V6 petrol engine with a mild-hybrid system. It delivers 340 hp and 500 Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox and Audi’s signature Quattro all-wheel-drive system. With seven different drive modes—Auto, Comfort, Dynamic, Efficiency, Off-Road, All-Road and Individual—the Q7 offers a more versatile driving experience. Audi claims a faster 0-100 km/h time of 5.9 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h. Additionally, the mild-hybrid system allows the Q7’s engine to shut off for up to 40 seconds when coasting, enhancing fuel efficiency.
Exterior and Colour Options
Both SUVs showcase bold and premium styling, with the XC90 adopting Volvo’s signature Scandinavian minimalism, while the Q7 embraces a sportier, more aggressive design. The Volvo XC90 is available in six exterior colour options—Onyx Black, Crystal White, Denim Blue, Bright Dusk, Mulberry Red and Vapour Grey. The Audi Q7 comes in five shades—Sakhir Gold, Waitomo Blue, Mythos Black, Samurai Grey and Glacier White.
Interior and Features
Inside, the Volvo XC90 offers a choice of three interior colour themes—Charcoal, Cardamom and Blond—while the Audi Q7 comes with two options—Cedar Brown and Saiga Beige.
In terms of technology, the Q7 features a dual-touchscreen infotainment system with a 10.1-inch display for multimedia and an 8.6-inch screen for climate control. It also gets a fully digital Audi Virtual Cockpit, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system, four-zone climate control with an air ioniser, ambient lighting, and electrically adjustable front seats with a memory function. Additional luxury features include a panoramic sunroof and power-folding third-row seats.
The XC90, on the other hand, boasts an 11.2-inch Google-based infotainment system paired with a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display. It offers a head-up display, wireless phone charging, massaging and ventilated front seats, an air purifier with a PM 2.5 filter, four-zone climate control and a Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system.
Safety Features
Volvo is known for its commitment to safety, and the XC90 is no exception. It includes dual-stage airbags, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, rear collision warning, a 360-degree camera and a tyre pressure monitoring system.
The Audi Q7 is also packed with safety features, including eight airbags, Park Assist Plus with a 360-degree camera, lane departure warning with steering assist, electronic stability control (ESC) and cruise control with a speed limiter.
Dimensions and Space
The Audi Q7 is the larger SUV in terms of length and wheelbase, which translates to a more spacious cabin. It measures 5,072 mm in length, 1,970 mm in width, 1,705 mm in height and has a wheelbase of 3,000 mm. Ground clearance stands at 254 mm, while the fuel tank capacity is 85 litres.
The Volvo XC90 is slightly more compact, measuring 4,953 mm in length, 1,931 mm in width and 1,773 mm in height, with a 2,984 mm wheelbase. However, it offers a higher ground clearance of 267 mm, which may benefit those driving on rough or uneven roads. The fuel tank capacity is 71 litres. Both SUVs ride on 20-inch alloy wheels.
Which SUV Should You Choose?
The choice between the Volvo XC90 and Audi Q7 depends on personal preferences and priorities. If you seek a luxury SUV with Scandinavian design, top-notch safety features and a comfortable, tech-loaded cabin, the Volvo XC90 is an excellent choice. However, if you prioritise performance, a larger cabin, a sportier design and a more affordable price tag, the Audi Q7 stands out as a strong contender.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Prices, specifications and features mentioned are subject to change based on market conditions and manufacturer updates. Prospective buyers are advised to check with authorised dealerships for the latest details before making a purchase decision.