Yes, I expect Tahoe to win this competition, but here are some comparison numbers:- Length: 204-inch vs 199.6-inch- Width: 80.5-inch vs 77.5-inch- Height: 74.4-inch vs 68.5-inch.- Wheelbase: 116-inch vs 118-inch !!!- Curb Weight: 5602lb vs 4938- Official tow rate: 8600 vs 7700I am comparing this obviously since I do prefer the Q7 as a daily vehicle and I will only own one vehicle for both towing and non-towing. But at the end, I'll not go with anything that is considered dangerous.My understanding is that the longer wheelbase is good, and in this case, the Q7 has longer wheelbase! Heavier weight is good so Tahoe comes out ahead but it is taller so perhaps the center of gravity is lower in the Q7.Further more, the rear overhang on the Tahoe appears to be longer, which is supposed to be bad for towing.I also expect to go over Rockies mountains. Perhaps the super-charged Q7 engine might have an edge here?I'd like to pull a trailer with GWVR of 6000 and length of 25.5ft. No payload issue as we are very light and not much cargo in the vehicle either.No 1/2t pickup please as they don't fit in my garage.Your feedback are much appreciated!

What year for each respective vehicle? What motor? Also, Google search "Audi Service Position" to learn about the service position that's required for some maintenance (possibly replacing alternator, water pump, timing belt(s), etc...). Audi/VWAG products are not as easy to work on as a Suburban, but that wouldn't matter much to an individual that isn't a DIY'er. At one time, I really wanted a VW Toureg. Then I learned about the plethora of special tools it takes to service these vehicles and the requirement to put them into "Service Position" to get at some accessories on the front of the engine for maintenance. Makes sense for a shop, a little harder to do for a DIY'er.

I would not bet that payload isn't an issue, you need to look at that carefully. IMO neither one is a great tow truck, one or both might be adequate but you'll find out for sure in the Rockies.

I believe officially the Q7 does not recommend using a WDH and the receiver limit is lower than 75 pounds. Q7 Supercharged (or diesel if VW is allowed to sell them) would be better for power, plus 8-spd trans.If you can swing a Yukon Denali, that would be my vote. The GM SUVs will likely be far cheaper to own/maintain, and worth a very high percentage when used. GM owns the half ton SUV market at over 3/4!

I thought about getting a Q7 to tow my 6500 pound boat. Until I drove one. I was looking used, and this one was probably 2010ish. I was very unimpressed, both with the interior, as well as the power of the TDI.Brand new might be different. But I would also say that brand new, the GM full size SUVs are hard to beat.

Tahoe vs Q7 - which is a better tow vehicle? | Good Sam Community

35 Replies

SoCalDesertRid1
Explorer II
Jun 28, 2016
What's a Q7 ???
Bionic_Man
Explorer
Jun 28, 2016
I thought about getting a Q7 to tow my 6500 pound boat. Until I drove one. I was looking used, and this one was probably 2010ish. I was very unimpressed, both with the interior, as well as the power of the TDI.

Brand new might be different. But I would also say that brand new, the GM full size SUVs are hard to beat.
APT
Explorer
Jun 28, 2016
I believe officially the Q7 does not recommend using a WDH and the receiver limit is lower than 75 pounds. Q7 Supercharged (or diesel if VW is allowed to sell them) would be better for power, plus 8-spd trans.

If you can swing a Yukon Denali, that would be my vote. The GM SUVs will likely be far cheaper to own/maintain, and worth a very high percentage when used. GM owns the half ton SUV market at over 3/4!
agesilaus
Explorer III
Jun 28, 2016
I would not bet that payload isn't an issue, you need to look at that carefully. IMO neither one is a great tow truck, one or both might be adequate but you'll find out for sure in the Rockies.
jus2shy
Explorer
Jun 28, 2016
What year for each respective vehicle? What motor? Also, Google search "Audi Service Position" to learn about the service position that's required for some maintenance (possibly replacing alternator, water pump, timing belt(s), etc...). Audi/VWAG products are not as easy to work on as a Suburban, but that wouldn't matter much to an individual that isn't a DIY'er.

At one time, I really wanted a VW Toureg. Then I learned about the plethora of special tools it takes to service these vehicles and the requirement to put them into "Service Position" to get at some accessories on the front of the engine for maintenance. Makes sense for a shop, a little harder to do for a DIY'er.

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Tahoe vs Q7 - which is a better tow vehicle?

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