Audi Q7 Ground Clearance

All of the Audi Q7s have a maximum 9.4 inches of ground clearance, variable with adaptive air suspension technology.
Written by Cameron Thiessen
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
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The
Audi Q7
is a midsize luxury SUV. Compared other vehicles of that designation, its maximum ground clearance is on the higher side, measuring in at 9.4 inches.
Using its adaptive air suspension, the Q7 can actually raise itself to match more challenging terrain, then lower itself when you need a more aerodynamic ride, like when you’re on the freeway. If you’re looking for a 3-row SUV that will hold its own even through your family’s wackiest geocaching journeys, the Q7 will definitely fit the bill.
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2022 Audi Q7 ground clearance

The Q7’s ground clearance can vary based on its adaptive suspension. This new feature appears in offerings from many of Audi’s competitors—a fact that is starting to make SUV ground clearance stats less relevant and less reported, since they are now often variable.
Each of the TFSI trims feature the standard adaptive suspension that can lift the Q7’s ground clearance up to 9.4 inches. However, the V8-equipped SQ7 package—available with Premium Plus or Prestige trims—features its own sport-tuned suspension and all-wheel steering:
The higher trims are also available with upgraded wheels, ranging between 19 and 22 inches, which will contribute to your ability to get through rough terrain in addition to affecting the ground clearance of your Audi Q7.

Audi Q7 ground clearance over the years

The new Q7s are part of the model’s second generation. Adaptive air suspension was around for the first generation as well, when the Q7’s ground clearance was recorded at 8.1 inches. The first generation model years are 2006-2015.
This means that even older Q7s in good condition will likely perform just as well as a new model in lighter off-road situations, but the newer generation is a step ahead when it comes to more challenging terrain.
MORE:

What is ground clearance—and why does it matter?

Okay, so what exactly are we talking about when we mention ground clearance, and why should you care about it? Technically speaking, ground clearance is a measurement of the distance from the lowest part of the chassis to the road—in other words, the lowest part of the car that isn’t the wheels. If a car is too low to the ground, you run the risk of high-centering and immobilizing the vehicle because the wheels can no longer push forward off the ground.
In a vehicle with a higher ground clearance, you’ll only need to be concerned about that happening if you end up in a serious off-road situation. Audi recommends nothing more than “light off-roading” with the Q7. Experts also recommend a minimum of 8.5 inches of ground clearance for off-roading—matched and exceeded by the 2nd-gen models, while the 1st-gen Q7 falls slightly short.
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Is the Audi Q7 a good off-road vehicle?

Based on that figure of 8.5 inches mentioned earlier, the newer models can absolutely be considered a good vehicle for a bit of off-roading, but you still wouldn’t want to take it out for intense off-roading adventures that would better suit a vehicle with even higher suspension.
That being said, the Q7 definitely has a lot going for it as a highly-capable midsize SUV, and the legendary Audi adaptive suspension definitely deserves praise for the way it helps the Q7 adjust to whatever situation you’ve put it in. The renowned “quattro” AWD drivetrain—standard on all models—also does wonders for handling challenging situations proficiently.
For the average outdoorsy family who will be driving on country roads to camping spots and hiking trail entrances, the Q7 will more than do the trick as long as the conditions are fair. But you wouldn’t want to make a habit of taking your family’s midsize luxury SUV out for a cheeky bit of muddin’.

Guard against accidents with the best Q7 insurance

Driving up mountains, over tight bridges, in and out of rush hour traffic, or even just hauling a camper out to the family’s favorite spot are all jobs that midsize SUVs are designed to tackle. But that doesn’t mean accidents won’t happen.
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