A7 vs i7
The A7 and the i7 are aimed squarely at each other: same class, different badges. This is less a contest than a fine-tuning exercise: both cover the same ground, with only a few meaningful gaps.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance i7 wins
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance3.1
- Engine & Performance6.9
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The i7 has 114 hp more power
The i7 clearly leads on total system output, and 449 hp versus 335 hp is a difference that reaches well beyond the spec sheet. The i7’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed.
-
The i7 has 110 lb-ft more torque
On torque, the i7 posts 479 lb-ft against 369 lb-ft for the A7, a gap big enough to feel in everyday use. More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
i7 leads
When it comes to engine & performance, the i7 is comfortably ahead. The i7 makes its case with 114 hp more power. More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board. That makes the i7 the natural choice for buyers focused on engine & performance.
Total system output
A7: 335 hp i7: 449 hp Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels.
Torque
A7: 369 lb-ft i7: 479 lb-ft The i7’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
On paper, the off-road & towing comparison ends all square. For off-road & towing, pick whichever you prefer for other reasons.
Safety & Tech
For safety & tech, the spec sheet lists components and formats rather than figures we can rank. The table shows what the A7 and the i7 each bring.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | A7 | i7 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas (48V mild hybrid) | Electric |
| Engine | 3.0L turbo V6 | Single rear electric motor |
| Total system output | 335 hp | 449 hp (winner) |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft | 479 lb-ft (winner) Most torque in class |
| Transmission | 7-speed dual-clutch (S tronic) | 1-speed direct drive |
| Drivetrain | AWD (quattro) | RWD (xDrive AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | A7 | i7 |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 25 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (city) | 22 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 30 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Electric range | N/A (not specified) | 314 mi |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | A7 | i7 |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | N/A (not specified) | 5 seats |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | A7 | i7 |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | A7 | i7 |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the i7 if…
- you want more power (449 hp vs 335 hp)
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (479 lb-ft vs 369 lb-ft of torque)
- you’re loyal to BMW and happy with it
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy the A7 or the i7?
On the specs compared here, the i7 makes more sense for most buyers; the A7 doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
The A7 versus the i7 is a matchup I find genuinely interesting, because Audi and BMW made different bets. The single spec I’d point a friend to is this: the i7 has 114 hp more power.
Fit matters more than scores here. The A7 suits buyers focused on the things a spec sheet can’t capture; the i7 suits those focused on engine & performance.
My pick: the i7.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.