Dexter1110

Its been 3 years of bliss with the SQ5. Perfect sweet spot between size and drive. However, we're now expecting a 3rd kid.

The oldest at 11 doesn't need a booster and will sit behind the driver. The current youngest at 5 surveys his kingdom from a Britax Frontier car seat in the back row behind the passenger seat (using the LUAC). We're planning a Britax B-Safe for the newborn in the back middle position (using the seat belt).

1) I'm expecting a tight fit but I'd appreciate comment from anyone who's seen or tried this as to feasibility and relative comfort. We don't expect to have any adults sitting back there save for occasional use.

2) How about daily use lugging around the usual rug-rats gear? We already use the Thule box on the roof for heavier travel with 2 kids and expect to use it more with 3. Anyone haul around a Chariot for sports (running, cc skiing, snowshoeing, skating)? Do you get all of this to fit without pulling your hair out?

I've test-driven the 2017 Q7 (Progressiv trim) and while this is the pinnacle of driver "support" and technology I'd liken this to a cruiser, compared to the SQ5 which is more of a rocket. Its apparently the same motor, but at a heavier weight and larger size (apparently 6" wider and 6" longer as per the dealer but it feels like more) the Q7 feels more like a bus. Don't get me wrong, its an impressive bus, and more sporty than anything else I've tried with a 3rd row of seats, but still a change in lifestyle.

I've seen that the SQ7 may make its way to NA next year (Twin turbo V8) but with recent developments it make take longer. Also, this will be a whole other price point and considering the 3 mouths to feed...

I'd love to hear others impressions on the Q7 as a whole for 3 kids. Is there a significant difference in the driving experience between the Progressiv and the Technik trim? If, per chance, anyone has had to consider switching from SQ5 to Q7 (whatever your final decision was) please chime in.