Full-size luxury SUVs represent the pinnacle of performance, capability, and premium refinement with generous space for up to 7 passengers. In the past, drivers searching for spacious seating for their families or friends would only have the option of full-size sedans or estate wagons that lack the impressive ground clearance and massive cargo capacities of an SUV.

Today's luxury SUV shopper is now faced with an array of choices that can make finding the right one for your lifestyle more difficult than ever before. Our team at Audi Ann Arbor has created this in-depth model comparison in which the striking three-row Audi Q7 faces up against two of its biggest rivals -- the Mercedes-Benz GLS and the Volvo XC90. Once you see the results, you will understand why drivers continue to prefer Audi over the competition.

Audi Q7 vs Mercedes-Benz GLS

The first competitor to go up against the Audi Q7 is the Mercedes-Benz GLS. Right from the very start, choosing the Q7 instead of the GLS will save you an astounding $3,850. Shifting focus towards the interiors of both of these SUVs, there are numerous key differences between the two. When you're carrying the entire team across town for soccer practice, it's always great when rear passengers have the ability to customize their temperature preferences. The Audi Q7 Prestige comes standard with rear HVAC controls and climate controlled rear seats, two features that will cost you more at Mercedes-Benz.

Continuing to examine the interiors of both vehicles, the Audi Q7 offers greater legroom and headroom in the front seats. While Mercedes-Benz drivers will have to settle for synthetic leatherette upholstery, the Audi Q7 comes standard with genuine leather seating surfaces for enhanced comfort. Other reasons to choose the Q7 over the GLS include larger 20-inch wheels which are included as standard for a bolder exterior look. The Q7 also includes adaptive cruise control at no cost. Finally, a sizable 441-pound lower curb weight allows the Q7 to deliver more responsive handling at all speeds.

Audi Q7 vs Volvo XC90

While both offer three-row seating for up to 7 passengers, there are several key distinctions between the Audi Q7 and the Volvo XC90. When comparing performance figures, the XC90 is no match for the Q7. Powered by a 3.0-liter V6 engine, the Q7 delivers a balanced yet responsive 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. For comparison, the XC90 relies on a complex 2.0-liter 4-cylinder which is mated to a mild hybrid system.

Along with long-term reliability concerns, this engine is less powerful than the V6 found beneath the hood of the Q7. The fuel tank of the Q7 is 4 gallons larger than the XC90, leading to less-frequent stops on extended road trips thanks to greater range. Thanks to a shorter turning radius, the Audi Q7 is also the better choice when maneuvering in or out of a tight parking space.

Standard front and rear parking sensors also add confidence behind the wheel of the Q7. The Volvo XC90 only includes rear parking sensors, leaving you to take your best guess about how close your front bumper is to that telephone pole. The steering wheel offers power tilt and telescoping adjustments for a personalized position inside the Q7. Volvo drivers will have to fumble with manual adjustments in order to reach their desired position. Across both the first and second rows of seating, the Audi Q7 offers more legroom and shoulder room than the XC90.

Winner -- Audi Q7

After we've explored these three luxury 7-passenger SUVs in-depth, the clear winner of this comparison is the Audi Q7. The competition from Mercedes-Benz and Volvo are no match for the tremendous value, luxurious cabin, proven performance, and innovative tech features found on the Audi Q7. If you're ready to experience all that the Q7 has to offer, our team at Audi of Ann Arbor look forward to helping you choose the right model for your needs and lifestyle.