The current Audi Q7 has been around since the 2017 model year, but without a real performance option. That changed for 2020, when Audi released the SQ7 to do battle against the BMW X5 M50i, Mercedes-AMG GLE 53, and Porsche Cayenne S. For 2022, there are no changes of note to the SQ7.

The heart of every SQ7 is a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 worth 500 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of torque. It pairs excellently with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi’s renowned Quattro all-wheel drive (AWD) system, allowing this luxury brute to hit 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds, according to Audi.

Standard adaptive air suspension and all-wheel steering enable the SQ7 to go around curves with a level of control that defies its size, while an available Sport Package adds active roll stabilization, a sport differential, and red brake calipers. And the SQ7 can still be put to use as a workhorse, with a tow rating of up to 7,700 pounds and seating for seven, including five LATCH child seat mounting points.

The SQ7 comes in Premium Plus and Prestige trims. Even the base Premium Plus gets 21-inch wheels, LED exterior lighting, a 35/30/35 split-folding second row, a 50/50 split-folding third row with electric fold and unfold functions, eight-way power front seats, a power liftgate, leather upholstery with contrast diamond stitching, a Bang & Olufsen 3D premium sound system, a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, and a dual-screen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Opt for the Prestige trim and you’ll also get power-closing soft doors, ambient LED interior lighting, heated and cooled front seats, and heated rear seats. Other options include a black exterior package, front massaging seats, an Alcantara headliner, acoustic glass, extended leather, and laser headlights.

For safety, the SQ7 comes with forward-collision warning, automatic front and rear emergency braking, a surround-view camera system, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and vehicle exit warning. Full-speed adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist, a head-up display, and traffic-sign recognition are optional. The Q7 family earned good marks from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The SQ7 may be SUV-shaped, but make no bones about it, it’s a veritable performance car.