New Telluride vs Used Audi Q7 ????

[Alan]

Hi all,
Any thoughts on a 2017/18 used Audi Q7 vs a new Telluride? I realize the Audi is classed as a luxury vehicle and offers more power in the 3.0 liter version. I love the look of the Telluride and a loaded SX model would compare in price, size and features etc to a low mileage used 3.0 Q7 (budget mid/high $40k’s) I’ve never owned a Kia but I’m not a brand snob. The longer Kia warranty is a huge plus but the Q7 is a solid machine and highly recommended by many “expert reviews” Any thoughts would be appreciated!!!

 

[jw_tx21]

Hi all,
Any thoughts on a 2017/18 used Audi Q7 vs a new Telluride? I realize the Audi is classed as a luxury vehicle and offers more power in the 3.0 liter version. I love the look of the Telluride and a loaded SX model would compare in price, size and features etc to a low mileage used 3.0 Q7 (budget mid/high $40k’s) I’ve never owned a Kia but I’m not a brand snob. The longer Kia warranty is a huge plus but the Q7 is a solid machine and highly recommended by many “expert reviews” Any thoughts would be appreciated!!!

I had the same consideration and ultimately ordered an SX-P which I took delivery of last month. Very happy with it. For the equivalent features, it would cost $70k for a new Q7 Prestige. Now, a used one - perhaps - until I considered the maintenance costs. I've had German luxury, but realized that once it's out of warranty, maintenance will cost a lot. Depreciation is also significant due to high maintenance costs. Check Edmunds TCO for estimated maintenance costs. Take that into consideration.

Also Q7 design is getting a little long in the tooth - needs some updating and the back row is much smaller than Telluride. That's my two cents, would be good to hear from the former Q7 owners/lessees on this forum who switched to the Telluride... there are a few!

 

[mrmac]

The 2017 Q7 (redesigned year) and newer is a very nice 3-row SUV. One that we strongly considered. I don't think you could go wrong if you picked one up with low miles at a great price.

I think there are a number of pluses for the Telluride, such as better mpg and longer new-owner warranty coverage. However, the Kia badge still resonates with being an inexpensive value brand which I believe will effect pre-owned prices for years still to come. If you prefer the luxury treatment in the service department, go with the Audi. That being said, if you are a buyer who keeps his vehicles for several years, you will come out ahead with the Telluride. Enjoy.

 

[Alan]

I had the same consideration - for about 20 minutes. And then I came to my senses and ordered an SX-P which I took delivery of last month. So glad I did. For the equivalent features, it would cost $70k for a new Q7 Prestige. Now, a used one - perhaps - until you consider the maintenance costs. I've had German luxury, but realized that once it's out of warranty, maintenance will cost a lot. Check Edmunds TCO for estimated maintenance costs. So, take that into consideration.

Also Q7 design is getting a little long in the tooth - needs some updating and the back row is much smaller than Telluride. That's my two cents, would be good to hear from the former Q7 owners/lessees on this forum who switched to the Telluride... there are a few!

Appreciate the feedback, there is certainly pluses and minuses to both options. I’ve driven the Q7 and liked the ride. I haven’t driven a Telluride yet. I would expect to hold on to my next vehicle for minimum 5 years. Probably makes more sense overall to go with Kia given that fact and assuming I like how she handles when I test drive one!

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[jw_tx21]

Appreciate the feedback, there is certainly pluses and minuses to both options. I’ve driven the Q7 and liked the ride. I haven’t driven a Telluride yet. I would expect to hold on to my next vehicle for minimum 5 years. Probably makes more sense overall to go with Kia given that fact and assuming I like how she handles when I test drive one!

Now that I am reviewing current used car prices, it looks like the Audi Q7 Prestige has dropped even more since April (when I was looking). Then, a 2017 with low mileage was closer to $50k - now looks like some deals could be had around $44k. Telluride SX-P was about $45k with the discounts at the time, which is why I went with it. If you're only going to keep the car for about 5 years, then a used Q7 may be the better choice right now to wait out the Telluride hysteria and allow supply to adjust for a couple of years. The Q7 will likely still lose half its value in that time - depending on mileage - but that's due to higher expected costs down the road. As @mrmac said, it's a fine automobile that is tried and true. There are a lot of Q7s coming off lease every month - so that's another reason why a used purchase could make sense. Just be prepared for higher maintenance costs... my friend has an RS 5 and has spent quite a bit of time and money in the shop! But, that's a totally different car than the Q7.

 

[critrider]

Hi all,
Any thoughts on a 2017/18 used Audi Q7 vs a new Telluride? I realize the Audi is classed as a luxury vehicle and offers more power in the 3.0 liter version. I love the look of the Telluride and a loaded SX model would compare in price, size and features etc to a low mileage used 3.0 Q7 (budget mid/high $40k’s) I’ve never owned a Kia but I’m not a brand snob. The longer Kia warranty is a huge plus but the Q7 is a solid machine and highly recommended by many “expert reviews” Any thoughts would be appreciated!!!

I actually have both....or to be more specific, the spouse drives a 2019 Q7 premium Plus AWD with the Driver Assistance Package. Feature wise there is not much the Kia concedes to the Audi, but they are not comparable IMO. The Audi is really quick, agile and quiet. The interior is more luxurious and the materials are all first class. The issue with a used Audi is the maintenance cost post warranty and premium gas is required! This is our second Q7 and both have been absolutely trouble free....maybe consider the Premium Plus over the Prestige, should be able to get a decent one in the mid 30k range. Cant go wrong with the Telluride though, its a stellar vehicle!

 

[Alan]

I actually have both....or to be more specific, the spouse drives a 2019 Q7 premium Plus AWD with the Driver Assistance Package. Feature wise there is not much the Kia concedes to the Audi, but they are not comparable IMO. The Audi is really quick, agile and quiet. The interior is more luxurious and the materials are all first class. The issue with a used Audi is the maintenance cost post warranty and premium gas is required! This is our second Q7 and both have been absolutely trouble free....maybe consider the Premium Plus over the Prestige, should be able to get a decent one in the mid 30k range. Cant go wrong with the Telluride though, its a stellar vehicle!

Thanks for the feedback! Two of my siblings back in Ireland have Audi A6’s (2017 models) and they are quiet, feel luxurious and have good acceleration for 2.0 liter diesels. Once the warranty on a used Q7 is up, what’s the maintenance cost like? Audi seems like a reliable brand from my experience, so I would expect more in maintenance than repair costs down the road. What’s the road noise like with the Telluride? Is the acceleration decent (albeit not the Q7) and how is the steering feel/handling? Coming from a Mazda cx-5 which feels great to drive but want better acceleration, more space and decent driving dynamics like the Mazda. Thx

 

[plutoridge]

Also factor in the wait time for Telluride - depending on the model and trim you want! You can get Q7 right now vs may be few months wait for TRide SX-P

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[critrider]

Thanks for the feedback! Two of my siblings back in Ireland have Audi A6’s (2017 models) and they are quiet, feel luxurious and have good acceleration for 2.0 liter diesels. Once the warranty on a used Q7 is up, what’s the maintenance cost like? Audi seems like a reliable brand from my experience, so I would expect more in maintenance than repair costs down the road. What’s the road noise like with the Telluride? Is the acceleration decent (albeit not the Q7) and how is the steering feel/handling? Coming from a Mazda cx-5 which feels great to drive but want better acceleration, more space and decent driving dynamics like the Mazda. Thx

Never really needed service on ours, warranty or not, so I can't comment, likely its more than a Kia... But there is NO comparison between an Audi dealership and a Kia dealership in my experience. Since their cars are in the luxury category and have to compete with the other luxury brands, customers expect and get good service and a stellar buying experience. The Telluride is very quiet, close or equal to the Audi and the acceleration is fine, nothing to complain (or rave) about...The Audi is way faster and more dialed in as far as handling. Its great. The thing is, I'd guess Kia was not benchmarking the Telluride to the Q7, but its not that far off, and you can see the Audi design influence on the interior. Not sure a new Q7 is worth 25-30K more than a SXP, but used it is a lot more tempting.

 

[Alan]

Also factor in the wait time for Telluride - depending on the model and trim you want! You can get Q7 right now vs may be few months wait for TRide SX-P

Cheers, yea I won’t jump on anything until next Spring at the earliest. The hoopla over the Telluride right now would turn me off dealerships, plus I want to see if any issues arise with it given that it’s a brand new model.

 

[Alan]

Never really needed service on ours, warranty or not, so I can't comment, likely more than a KIA... But there is NO comparison between an Audi dealership and a Kia dealership in my experience. Since their cars are in the luxury category and have to compete with the other luxury brands, customers expect and get good service and a stellar buying experience. The Telluride is very quiet, close or equal to the Audi and the acceleration is fine, nothing to complain (or rave) about...The Audi is way faster and more dialed in as far as handling. Its great. The thing is, I'd guess KIA was not benchmarking the Telluride to the Q7, but its not that far off, and you can see the Audi design influence on the interior. Not sure a new Q7 is worth 25-30K more than a SXP, but used it is a lot more tempting.

Cheers, I know, it’s somewhat apples to oranges given that Audi is a luxury brand. I’m sure I’d love the power, handling and refinement of the Q7 but I’d be a little hesitant buying used with the shorter warranty left on it if some costly repair did pop up. New Q7 coming soon but out of my reach. I’ll have to give it some serious thought before I decide between the two next spring. I’ve never had a luxury vehicle and although the Telluride is “premium” in my opinion and a decent value I won’t expect it to drive or “feel” as luxurious as a Q7. It will be a tough call to make!!!

 

[jw_tx21]

Cheers, I know, it’s somewhat apples to oranges given that Audi is a luxury brand. I’m sure I’d love the power, handling and refinement of the Q7 but I’d be a little hesitant buying used with the shorter warranty left on it if some costly repair did pop up. New Q7 coming soon but out of my reach. I’ll have to give it some serious thought before I decide between the two next spring. I’ve never had a luxury vehicle and although the Telluride is “premium” in my opinion and a decent value I won’t expect it to drive or “feel” as luxurious as a Q7. It will be a tough call to make!!!

If you ever get the chance to sit in or see an SX-Prestige before you are ready to buy, check it out. Also check out regular SX. The EX is a good value - but certainly all Kia's are in a different class compared to Q7. You just have to decide how much you want to pay - as citirider said, if your budget is $40-50K, you may want to consider a used Premium Plus and save difference for expected maintenance and repairs. They really shouldn't be compared directly - as a comparably equipped Q7 is $25K more than the SX-P.

You asked about performance - if you have a CX-5 185 hp engine ,the Kia will blow it away - it's a V-6 after all. I have a 2016 Mazda 3 GT (185 hp V4) with same engine as 2016 CX-5, not the new turbo, and the Telluride has much more power as expected. The CX-9 turbo is more comparable as it has slightly higher torque than the Kia, but I dislike the idea of having to put premium gas in CX-9 to get maximum horsepower... and it's a 4 cylinder. If that matters. (CX-9 way too cramped in my opinion.) As far as handling - I found the Telluride to be just as engaging as the CX-9 and Ascent - all hold the road very well (AWD models) and are quiet to drive. I'm not racing around on winding mountain roads though.

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[Alan]

I actually have the original CX-5 Grand Touring 2013 (bought new) with the very sluggish 155HP 4 banger. Drives lovely and been very reliable, fine around town but the engine is taxed out on road trips. I agree the CX-9 a bit cramped up front, looks good to my eyes and should be reliable. However it’s probably due a refresh in the next year or two and is more style than function for an suv when compared to the airy feel and practicality of the Telluride given the similar dimensions. I’ll check out the Telluride and at my local Autoshow when it comes to town and go from there.

 

[jw_tx21]

I actually have the original CX-5 Grand Touring 2013 (bought new) with the very sluggish 155HP 4 banger. Drives lovely and been very reliable, fine around town but the engine is taxed out on road trips. I agree the CX-9 a bit cramped up front, looks good to my eyes and should be reliable. However it’s probably due a refresh in the next year or two and is more style than function for an suv when compared to the airy feel and practicality of the Telluride given the similar dimensions. I’ll check out the Telluride and at my local Autoshow when it comes to town and go from there.

I was looking at a CX-9 Signature - quoted around $6000 off sticker (to around $41K) - compelling, but when I saw and drove SXP and could acquire for $45k - hands down Telluride won despite extra cost. CX-9 is a fantastic vehicle - but I too think needs a refresh to remain competitive in the 3-row SUV segment. It's 3rd row is just too impractical compared to competition, no Captain's chairs and the infotainment system is quite dated - really, Mazda, no touching while driving? As Mazda tries to do a brand pivot, it might pivot into irrelevancy... or just selling a lot of CX-5's. They've priced the latest GT Reserve and Signature trims quite high in my opinion... I'd rather have a Telluride S for same price! At those prices, I think they WANT to compete with the Q5 and X3 among other luxury small SUVs... but it's an uphill battle to win those customers.

Heck, I just might buy a second Telluride in a couple of years when I tire of the Mazda 3. Or maybe Kia will bring the Mojave to U.S. shores! The Kia Sportage is impressive too - I might choose over a CX-5 - and the new Soul is just fun to drive (a bit small, but I fit well despite being a big guy). In 2019, I really like the infotainment implementation of Hyundai and Kia - simple and effective. Big screens, clear and lots of detail - full touchscreen. No more knobs, buttons, mouse-like controllers (Lexus!) or touchpads (Acura). No confusing dual screens either (thank you Honda). In my view, Audi's is also simple and effective... as is BMW - but they have secondary controllers on console - not a dealbreaker though because their systems work.

 

[Alan]

Totally agree. I watch the auto market closely and no matter what comes out there’s no “perfect vehicle” available in my opinion in the mainstream categories. The Acura MDX would be near top of my list as a roomy and zippy “large 5 seater” but I hate the double screen infotainment set up. I thought I’d like the new Honda Passport, but seeing it in person for me it just doesn’t have the “wow factor” inside or out for a vehicle close to price with the Telluride. I would use the Telluride as a large 5 seater most of the time with the 3rd seats folded. Like the look of the Volvo XC-90 (to buy used) but not sold on their reliability. I do like the simplicity of the kia’s infotainment set up and they are constantly improving both the exterior and interior styling of their vehicles. Bottom line I think is some brands get it right with style, power and handling but sacrifice practicality. Other brands have great practicality (Chevy traverse, VW Atlas for examples) but fall we’ll short in driving experience and lack of interior quality etc. there’s always a compromise!

 

[bakerwi]

Totally agree. I watch the auto market closely and no matter what comes out there’s no “perfect vehicle” available in my opinion in the mainstream categories. The Acura MDX would be near top of my list as a roomy and zippy “large 5 seater” but I hate the double screen infotainment set up. I thought I’d like the new Honda Passport, but seeing it in person for me it just doesn’t have the “wow factor” inside or out for a vehicle close to price with the Telluride. I would use the Telluride as a large 5 seater most of the time with the 3rd seats folded. Like the look of the Volvo XC-90 (to buy used) but not sold on their reliability. I do like the simplicity of the kia’s infotainment set up and they are constantly improving both the exterior and interior styling of their vehicles. Bottom line I think is some brands get it right with style, power and handling but sacrifice practicality. Other brands have great practicality (Chevy traverse, VW Atlas for examples) but fall we’ll short in driving experience and lack of interior quality etc. there’s always a compromise!

When my wife and I were looking we considered both a CPO Volvo XC-90 Inscription and the Audi Q7 Prestige both 2018s and came across some enticing deals. There was also the option of extending the CPO warranty (up to 10 years on the Volvo) at an attractive cost. The Volvo dealer was really motivated and called over the weekend to see if I was still interested. My wife didn't like how narrow the 3rd row was. If not for that we would have bought the Volvo. From a tech standpoint both were comparable to the SXP in price if you were considering paying Kia's market value adjustment. I would not compare the 2020 Kia to a new Q7 or XC-90 as this is apples and oranges as they do not compete in the same market segment.

Just my $.02.

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[jw_tx21]

Totally agree. I watch the auto market closely and no matter what comes out there’s no “perfect vehicle” available in my opinion in the mainstream categories. The Acura MDX would be near top of my list as a roomy and zippy “large 5 seater” but I hate the double screen infotainment set up. I thought I’d like the new Honda Passport, but seeing it in person for me it just doesn’t have the “wow factor” inside or out for a vehicle close to price with the Telluride. I would use the Telluride as a large 5 seater most of the time with the 3rd seats folded. Like the look of the Volvo XC-90 (to buy used) but not sold on their reliability. I do like the simplicity of the kia’s infotainment set up and they are constantly improving both the exterior and interior styling of their vehicles. Bottom line I think is some brands get it right with style, power and handling but sacrifice practicality. Other brands have great practicality (Chevy traverse, VW Atlas for examples) but fall we’ll short in driving experience and lack of interior quality etc. there’s always a compromise!

So, if you're looking for a 5 seater and want a second row bench, then the EX is the highest trim level with that option (captains chairs are standard in SX, as of now). I drove an FWD EX and really liked it too - needs headlights upgraded to LED with aftermarket bulbs - but it feels very different from the SX-P that we ultimately bought. The EX with rebates is a real value play. That trim is in no way comparable to Q7 or XC-90 in terms of luxury. Maybe comparable to a base MDX (if EX headlights are upgraded to LED)... but with a better transmission.

We were looking for Captains Chairs... and have to go to MDX Advanced ($60k) for that. Or new Explorer... but price for features isn't comparable.

 

[Alan]

Thanks for the feedback! Not quite following, did you end up with the 2018 Q7 or a new Telluride? I realize comparing a new Telluride to a new Q7/XC-90 doesn’t make much sense. Although they’re in different markets a used 2017/18 Audi Q7 is comparable to a new 2019/20 Kia Telluride in many ways (size, features, practicality,etc) and above all price point which would overlap depending on the Audi’s trim level and mileage. Just intrigued by the proposition of new “non luxury” (Telluride) vs used “luxury (Q7) at a similar price point, say mid to high 40k’s!

 

[np86]

When my wife and I were looking we considered both a CPO Volvo XC-90 Inscription and the Audi Q7 Prestige both 2018s and came across some enticing deals. There was also the option of extending the CPO warranty (up to 10 years on the Volvo) at an attractive cost. The Volvo dealer was really motivated and called over the weekend to see if I was still interested. My wife didn't like how narrow the 3rd row was. If not for that we would have bought the Volvo. From a tech standpoint both were comparable to the SXP in price if you were considering paying Kia's market value adjustment. I would not compare the 2020 Kia to a new Q7 or XC-90 as this is apples and oranges as they do not compete in the same market segment.

Just my $.02.

My wife and I were looking at the same exact cars. Definitely liked the XC90 more than the Q7 but they both felt very luxurious. The acceleration on them was better than the Telluride (as expected), but for us we wanted a functional 3rd row and the Volvo felt small in the back, while the Q7 might have worked. We live in NY and our concern was just that for those (up to) 20k miles that somebody else put on the car, who knows how they were driving. We just didn't want to deal with the headache of the maintenance costs afterwards on a used luxury vehicle.
That being said, we've had our Telluride for a week now and we love the car so far!

 

[bakerwi]

My wife and I were looking at the same exact cars. Definitely liked the XC90 more than the Q7 but they both felt very luxurious. The acceleration on them was better than the Telluride (as expected), but for us we wanted a functional 3rd row and the Volvo felt small in the back, while the Q7 might have worked. We live in NY and our concern was just that for those (up to) 20k miles that somebody else put on the car, who knows how they were driving. We just didn't want to deal with the headache of the maintenance costs afterwards on a used luxury vehicle.
That being said, we've had our Telluride for a week now and we love the car so far!

Great to hear! My wife and I are formally from Northern NJ (Hackensack). As previously mentioned we probably would have went with the XC-90 if not for the narrow 3rd row. It's just my wife and I, but the 3rd row is important to her. She's still on fence between the Telluride and the Palisade and we have access to purchase either. The Palisade is starting to grow on me, but in the end it is her decision.