Is a Q7 comfier than an A8

[Gramps1970]

Hi,

I looking for a ‘comfy’ car, one that feels good on our potholed roads. I have a very fond (maybe clouded) memory of a friends Mercedes’ 560 sec wafting along like a magic carpet, not feeling any bumps or potholes lol

I have just been for a test drive in a D4 A8, it was the sport executive spec, (not sure if the executive se would be any more comfortable ?) I put it into comfort setting, and whilst it was nice it wasn’t quite as smooth as I was expecting tbh. I know it rides on 20” alloys and that 19” on the non sport would make a bit of difference, but would a Q7 be comfier ?

I know some will say get an s class, but for some reason, I am hesitant, from reading they aren’t as reliable as the Audi, and might cost more to put right ( owner advice welcome here)

To give a bit of background, my budget is £18.5k I need 5 seats and a biggish boot (must say I was surprised how small the A8 boot was !)

Any input welcomed, thankyou.

[stevemcs]

If you want comfort then you won’t find it in an Audi, you need an S class or XJ for that.
However if it has to be an Audi then an A8 on air with the smallest wheels possible.

[DaveA8]

stevemcs said:

If you want comfort then you won’t find it in an Audi, you need an S class or XJ for that.
However if it has to be an Audi then an A8 on air with the smallest wheels possible.

The A8 is much more comfortable than a Q7.
If you are buying and the car has a Sports Differential then pay special attention as this is a definite week sport, 2 of my last 3 have had problems and the 2nd time although under extended warranty (just over 3yrs old), both the Garage and Warranty Insurer squirmed like mad, figures of £7k were thrown around but I never asked or wanted to know. Allegedly the housing can split.
Other than that and a broken electronic handbrake, I have found them low stress.
Get comfort seat pack as the seats are amongst the best you'll find.

[Gramps1970]

Thanks for the input. Did the sports diff come as standard on the sport models ?

[missing the VR6]

Our top of the non-S/RS range A4 Avant doesn't even come close compared to my almost bottom of the range Volvo XC40 company car. If you want comfort, you need a Volvo. The Audi is the only car I've needed to take a break from driving due to my back hurting.

[Gramps1970]

missing the VR6 said:

Our top of the non-S/RS range A4 Avant doesn't even come close compared to my almost bottom of the range Volvo XC40 company car. If you want comfort, you need a Volvo. The Audi is the only car I've needed to take a break from driving due to my back hurting.

Unfortunately I can’t afford the XC40 lol, I could go for the older XC60, around 2013, not sure if they’re smooth or not ?

[DaveA8]

Gramps1970 said:

Thanks for the input. Did the sports diff come as standard on the sport models ?

I don't know, it was standard on the 4.2Tdi and S8, I can't honestly tell you because the Tech in the garage alluded to the fact that not all had the Sports diff but as I said, I took the view of not asking too much when I collected the cars.
There is an A8 forum and it is generally very knowledgeable