For a fraction of the price of the Lambo Urus, the SQ8 is a no-brainer with a grunty V8, added luxury, and a host of features
by Stanley on October 16, 2023, 07:49The Audi SQ8 debuted as the performance variant of Audi’s flagship SUV, the Q8, which Audi released in 2018 as a rival to the BMW X6. The X6 was introduced in 2008 and was the first coupe SUV. Though its styling elicited some controversy due to the reduction in rear passenger and cargo space when compared to the comparably-equipped BMW X5, it made a success as BMW sold 4,548 units in the U.S. alone in 2008. As a result, Mercedes-Benz followed suit in 2015 with the GLE-Class Coupe seven years after the release of the X6. Audi took a long time to enter the segment by introducing the Q8 in 2018, 10 years after the X6, and one year after the Lamborghini Urus, which came out in 2017.
The SQ8 serves as a step up of the Q8. It carries the same luxury features but adds more power, 500 horsepower, and 568 pound-feet of torque instead of 335 horses and 369-pound-feet torque in the Q8. But there’s also an even wilder version, the RS Q8, which Audi plans to release at a later date. This model extends the power to 591 horses and 590 pound-feet of torque.
Despite being available for five years, it still feels sleek and modern with its captivating design, luxurious interior, and the burly V8 under the hood that pushes out 500 horsepower. Even so, the German luxury brand felt the need to give its leading coupe-style SUV a mid-cycle refresh for 2024.
The revised SQ8 now features an updated grille with octagonal elements and a restyled bumper with large air intakes, which gives it a more modern look. Audi also gave it a pair of cool-looking LED headlights with laser beams and customizable daytime running lights, which drivers can configure in four styles through the infotainment system.
But the SQ8 competes with other undisputed coupe-styled rivals, including the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, BMW X6, and the Porsche Cayenne Coupe. Like the SQ8, these high-performance SUVs also boast potent V8 engines, luxurious interiors, and advanced tech features. These features, coupled with the various manufacturers’ reputation for performance and precision in engineering, make these SUVs strong competitors to the Audi SQ8.
How does the performance of the Audi SQ8 compare to these rivals? Does it offer any unique driving characteristics to sway potential buyers? Here are 10 interesting facts that will make you love the 2024 Audi SQ8.
- 1. The SQ8 Is Almost As Quick As The Lamborghini Urus
- 2. The SQ8 Is A True Dual Purpose Vehicle
- 3. The SQ8 Features Head-Turning Exterior Styling And Colors
- 4. The SQ8's Interior Gets Audis Three-Screen Layout
- 5. The SQ8 Offers Best-In-Class Cabin Space
- 6. The SQ8 Elevates Every Drive With Advanced Tech At Your Fingertips
- 7. The SQ8 Comes With Advanced Driver Assistance Features
- 8. You Get The Same Driving Experience Even In The Cheapest Trim
- 9. The SQ8 Offers More For The Money Than The Competition
- 10. The SQ8 Gets All The Necessary Braking Hardware
- Conclusion
- FAQs
1. The SQ8 Is Almost As Quick As The Lamborghini Urus
The 2024 SQ8 shares the same platform and powertrain as the Lamborghini Urus. That means they are mechanically similar, but as you can tell, the Urus makes more power.
The twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 that powers the SQ8 is the same engine in the Lamborghini Urus but detuned to make 500 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of torque, whereas, in the Urus, it produces a staggering 641 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque.
However, regarding acceleration, the SQ8 delivers a performance that is just slightly shy of the Urus. It blasts from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.6 seconds, just 0.4 seconds behind its Italian cousin’s 3.2 seconds. The SQ8 distributes its power through an eight-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel drive system that delivers agile and sporty handling.
So the SQ8, offering almost similar performance to the Urus, comes at a fraction of the price. For 2024, it costs $97,000 for the base Premium Plus, while the Lambo offers an estimated price of $235,000 for the base Urus S trim. That’s a $138,000 difference. Hence, if it’s just the speed you’re after, then the SQ8 is the one to go for since it’s as good as fasts. However, if you’re after the prestige and aura of the Lamborghini and can afford the higher price, then you can’t be wrong by going with the Urus.
2. The SQ8 Is A True Dual Purpose Vehicle
On the exterior, the SQ8 isn’t as aggressively styled as some of its German rivals or the wild Lamborghini Urus. That dialed-back style translates into a much easier and more comfortable SUV to live with despite its impressive performance. It delivers a well-composed and family-friendly driving experience in its comfort setting.
That’s because it comes with standard air springs and adaptive dampers that keep road bumps at bay, as well as rear-wheel steering, which turns the rear wheels in the opposite direction of the front wheels to enhance handling at low speeds and in the same direction as the front wheels for stability at high speeds.
The standard all-wheel-drive system ensures exceptional traction and stability in various driving conditions, constantly optimizing acceleration and handling as the SQ8 drives, enhancing both performance and safety. The adaptive suspension also makes loading and unloading cargo easier by lowering the rear at the touch of a button.
The X6 M also comes with a standard adaptive M suspension renowned for its aggressive handling. However, it gives a rocky ride due to the stiff springs it sits on, and that could be a deal breaker to some people. On the other hand, the GLE coupe offers a smooth ride similar to the Audi since its suspension comprises an air-bag system and active anti-roll bars that provide confident handling without sacrificing ride quality.
The Porsche Cayenne coupe also performs better, offering a refined ride and quiet cabin. Adaptive dampers are now standard on all three trims, while the higher Cayenne E-Hybrid and Cayenne S get adjustable air suspension, active anti-roll bars for balanced cornering, and four-wheel steering for enhanced maneuverability. Given its price tag of $80,850 for the base Cayenne and $97,350 for the top-of-the-line S trim, the Cayenne serves as a more prestigious alternative to the SQ8.
3. The SQ8 Features Head-Turning Exterior Styling And Colors
Although Audi gave the new SQ8 a subtle revision, it possesses a more slicker and elegant look than the pre-facelift model. The updated grille blends smoothly into the headlights, resembling its electric counterpart, the Q8 e-tron, which the grille also integrates into the lights.
Audi also revised the layout of the standard Matrix LED headlamps, the high-tech laser lights that improve the range of the high beams, and new daytime running lights that drivers can personalize into four different lighting signatures through the infotainment screen.
Other noticeable changes in the front are a redesigned front spoiler and an enlarged air intake. The grille, air intakes, and side mirrors are accented in aluminum to give a contrasting view.
At the rear, the SQ8 wears a redesigned diffuser, a new exhaust outlet, and a simple light bar, which can now be opted with Audi’s digital OLED lighting units. For a more daring appearance, you can opt for the Black Optic package, which adds a gloss black finish to the grille, bumper trim, and window trim.
Audi also throws in new wheel designs ranging from 21 to 23 inches in size and fresh color choices, including Chili Red, Sakhir Gold, and Ascari Blue.
The SQ8 looks unique, but rivals like the X6, GLE coupe, and Cayenne command equal attention on the road. The Cayenne’s slick body styling, four-quadrant HD matrix LED headlights, and the LED light strips that run across the entire rear length make the Cayenne a real treat.
4. The SQ8’s Interior Gets Audis Three-Screen Layout
As familiar with other Audi S models, Audi ensures you always get pampered inside the SQ8’s interior by giving it a posh cabin, more standard features, and nicer materials in the base Premium Plus and Prestige trim. These include diamond-stitched seats, carbon vector inlays that give the cabin a multi-dimensional look, contrast stitching, and blacked-out accents.
But no matter which trim you go for, you get Audi’s three-screen layout, which includes a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment, and a secondary 8.6-inch touchscreen below the upper infotainment screen that controls climate, radio, and various functions of the SQ8. The virtual cockpit now displays more driver assistance information, and the infotainment system also allows third-party app use, such as Spotify and Amazon Music.
With the available Luxury package, you can heighten your SQ8’s luxurious interior with additional leather trims, a lovely black headliner, and a front seat massage function. The package also includes manual rear window sun blinds and electric sun blinds for rear passenger windows.
Upgrading to the Prestige trim adds many luxury features, such as a head-up display, heated rear seats, power rear sunshades, and soft-close doors.
The three-screen design, however, is no longer unique to Audi since the Porsche Cayenne coupe also claims multiple screens in its interior. It features a fully digital 12.6-inch gauge cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with built-in Spotify and Apple Music connectivity. The third screen, however, is an optional 10.9-inch touchscreen for front passengers. It features several apps and can stream videos while in motion without distracting the driver. That’s because it’s fitted with a special layer that makes it invisible from the driver’s viewpoint.
5. The SQ8 Offers Best-In-Class Cabin Space
Front passengers get 41.6 inches of legroom and 41.1 inches of headroom, while those in the rear get 40.2 inches of legroom and 38.6 inches of headroom. For reference, the BMW X6 M offers 40.4 inches and 39.3 inches of legroom and headroom in the front, as well as 35.7 inches and 37.5 inches of legroom and headroom in the rear. All of which fall short of the SQ8’s interior dimensions.
The Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe also trails behind the SQ8 with 40.3 inches and 40.5 inches of front leg and headroom, and 40.9 inches of legroom and 36.9 inches of headroom in the rear.
As for the cargo area, the coupe-style SUV gets a standard cargo space of 30.8 cubic feet behind the second row, which you can expand to 60.7 cubic feet by folding down the rear seats. The door bins, center console storage compartment, and cup holders help to hold smaller items as well. Hence, passenger and luggage space is more than enough if you take your sporty SUV on a family road trip.
6. The SQ8 Elevates Every Drive With Advanced Tech At Your Fingertips
If you’re tech-conscious, the SQ8’s interior will appeal to you as it’s almost entirely digital. Audi adorns every SQ8 with its dual-touchscreen infotainment system and Virtual Cockpit reconfigurable gauge display.
The infotainment system is known for its user-friendliness and responsiveness and provides easy access to navigation, entertainment, and connectivity features. The secondary touchscreen controls the vehicle’s climate settings and features handwriting recognition, allowing you to write commands such as the name of your destination without the need to type.
The Virtual Cockpit also gets a high-resolution 12.3-inch driver information display. It can show a wide range of information, including navigation, performance data, and more, right in your line of sight. There are many advanced connectivity options, including smartphone integration, wireless charging, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability, ensuring you stay connected on the go.
7. The SQ8 Comes With Advanced Driver Assistance Features
Audi ensures you stay secure in every moment by adding a suite of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. These features help to maintain a preset distance to the vehicle in front and keep you centered in your lane, enhancing safety and reducing driver fatigue.
Other features include blind-spot monitoring and automated emergency braking, which can intervene in imminent collision by applying the brakes briefly.
With the available remote park assist plus, the SQ8 can automatically drive in and out of perpendicular or parallel parking spaces. You can even perform this useful feature via your smartphone outside your vehicle, a handy feature to get your car out of tight spaces.
These features help to maintain a preset distance to the vehicle in front and keep you centered in your lane, enhancing safety and reducing driver fatigue. But Audi requires you to upgrade to the Prestige trim to get these features.
The BMW X6 M also offers similar technology, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Also standard on the X6 M is BMW’s Maneuver Assistant, which can store and replicate the car’s movement even in reverse. Drivers can also operate this function from their smartphones. So you get a similar function as the SQ8’s park assist. The price gives the Audi an edge over the X6 M; the SQ8 Prestige costs $103,000, while the one-trim-only X6 M Competition costs $128,195.
8. You Get The Same Driving Experience Even In The Cheapest Trim
The only difference between the entry-level Premium Plus and the higher Prestige trim is the additional driver assistance and luxury features the Prestige offers, such as heated rear seats and a head-up display. Apart from that, both SQ8 models get the same engine and powertrain treatment: a 500-horsepower twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 and 568 pound-feet of torque, all-wheel drive, and eight-speed automatic.
Audi fits all SQ8s with the best performance-enhancing features, so you get the same driving experience no matter the trim you go for. All Premium Plus and Prestige trims offer precise steering and well-tuned suspension, making them more agile than the size suggests.
They both confidently handle corners, staying almost completely level, so they deliver a sporty driving experience. They are also exceptionally fast, with a poise and responsiveness you wouldn’t expect from a big SUV. Hence, you quickly realize how fast you’re moving and the momentum you have.
opting for the entry-level SQ8 will save you $6,000, but you’ll get the same performance as the more expensive Prestige trim. Base trims of the GLE coupe and Cayenne coupe come with reduced performance.
9. The SQ8 Offers More For The Money Than The Competition
The base Premium Plus SQ8 offers a sticker price of $97,000, while the upper Prestige model comes at $103,000, a $6,000 upgrade from the base model. Although different in price, both models are the same as they’re all fitted with a 500-horsepower twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8.
So you get the same car even for the less expensive model. Upgrading to the higher model only adds driver assistance and luxury features, including adaptive cruise control, head-up display, lane-keeping assist, heated rear seats, power rear sunshades, and soft-close doors.
Rivals from fellow German automakers don’t offer such pricing. For instance, Mercedes-Benz offers two models of the GLE Coupe, an $87,900 GLE53 that makes 429 horsepower and a $128,850 GLE63 S with 603 horses. That’s a $40,950 difference from the base model. So, you’ll need to pay much more for the high-performance version.
For 2024, BMW offers only one variant of the X6, the X6 M Competition. Although it makes 617 horsepower, which is the most compared to its rivals, it comes at $128,195. Yes, it costs less and makes more power than the GLE63 S, but it is disappointing that BMW doesn’t offer a slightly toned-down variant for those who can’t pay such a steep price.
The Porsche Cayenne Coupe gets the lowest price in the segment, costing $80,850 for the Cayenne, $93,350 for the Cayenne E-Hybrid, and $97,350 for the Cayenne S. All of which are cheaper than the rest. But they also make less power: 348 horsepower for the base Cayenne, 463 horses for the Cayenne E-Hybrid, and 468 horsepower for the Cayenne S.
10. The SQ8 Gets All The Necessary Braking Hardware
Stopping power for the SQ8 comes from four-wheel disc brakes measuring 15.7 inches on the front axle and 13.8 inches on the rear. The brakes work perfectly well in stopping the swift SUV from higher speeds. For example, 70 to 0 mph braking occurs in just 170 feet. That is a reasonable stopping distance since, according to ConsumerReports.org, the average 60 to 0 mph braking for midsize SUVs is 134 feet.
The brakes also get all the relevant technology, including Anti-lock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EDB) that automatically varies the amount of pressure applied to each wheel depending on speed and driving conditions, automated emergency braking, and hill hold and descent control.
The brake calipers usually come in black, but you can opt for red ones for aesthetic purposes, and both bear the Audi "S" logo.
BMW also equips the X6 M Competition with high-performance braking systems. At the front, it features six-piston, fixed-caliper brakes with perforated discs with a diameter of 15.6 inches. In contrast, the rear brakes are equipped with single-piston, floating caliper units paired with 15.0-inch discs. In addition to the standard blue finish for the calipers, you can choose red or black caliper finishes for added personalization.
Conclusion
The Audi SQ8 is a luxury performance SUV that combines power, style, and cutting-edge technology to create an exhilarating driving experience. If speed is your thing, the brawny 500-horsepower twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 under its hood won’t disappoint.
That said, the SQ8 still doesn’t possess the status the Lamborghini Urus comes with. The Urus is a true super-SUV with even more power and an even higher price tag and aims for the extreme end of the market.
True, the SQ8 shares the same powertrain with the Urus and delivers an acceleration that isn’t too far behind it. Yet, the Lambo’s 657 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque make a big difference in performance. Put them side-by-side in a drag race, and the Italian beast will always clear the quarter mile ahead of its German Cousine, anytime, on any track.
The Porsche Cayenne, on the other hand, offers a wide range of models, some of which are less powerful, while others, like the Cayenne Turbo with 468 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque, can compete with the SQ8 in terms of performance but offers a lower price. You also get the prestige associated with the Porsche brand.
But if you’re an Audi person and want more performance, the upcoming RS Q8 will be a better choice. Since Audi maintained the existing powertrain for the Q8 and SQ8, the RS Q8 will carry over the same 4.0-liter twin-turbo engine under the hood. That engine produces 591 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque in its current form. There is no official release date yet. But Audi typically releases RS variants of their high-performance models, and the RS Q8 is no exception. Audi plans to release it for the 2024 model year.
FAQs
1. What engine does the SQ8 have? [q/] Audi equips the SQ8 with a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. It delivers 500 horsepower and 568 pound-feet of torque. [a/]
2. How fast is the Audi SQ8? [q/] Given the SQ8’s 500 horses and 568 pound-feet torque, it needs just 3.6 seconds to travel from 0 to 60 mph. [a/]
3. What are the safety features of the Audi SQ8? [q/] The Audi SQ8 offers many standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automated emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. All of which increases safety and reduces driver fatigue. [a/]
4. Is the SQ8 all-wheel drive? [q/] The SQ8’s powertrain delivers its performance through its eight-speed automatic gearbox and standard all-wheel-drive system. [a/]
5. Is the SQ8 a hybrid? [q/] Yes, the SQ8 features a mild hybrid system. [a/]
6. What is the difference between the Q8 and SQ8? [q/] The SQ8 serves as a step-up model for the Q8. The Q8 comes with a 3.0-liter V6 engine, producing 335 horsepower, while the SQ8 gets a 500-horsepower 4.0-liter V8. [a/]
7. Is the SQ8 diesel or petrol? [q/] The SQ8 runs on a petrol-only 4.0-liter V8 powerplant. [a/]
8. What is the economy of the SQ8? [q/] According to the EPA, the SQ8 attains 15 MPG in the city, 21 MPG on the highway, and 17 MPG combined driving. [a/]
9. How much is an Audi SQ8 worth? [q/] The base Premium Plus model costs $97,000, and the upper Prestige model costs $103,000. Both cars get the same powertrain. [a/]
10. How reliable is the Audi SQ8? [q/] According to Kbb.com, owners of the 2023 SQ8 give it an above-average rating. It receives a quality rating of 4 out of 5, a reliability rating of 3.9, and an overall average rating of 4. [a/]
Expressive design and new lighting technology – the upgraded Audi Q8
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Expressive appearance guarantees high recognition value for the flagship in Audi’s SUV range
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Individualization of headlights and rear lights through digitalization
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Equipment range with new exterior colors, wheels, and decorative inlays underscores dynamically elegant look
Audi is updating the flagship of the Q family with a pure design and upgraded technology. The revised exterior aesthetic with new front and rear aprons underscores the strong character of the SUV coupé. The optionally available S line exterior package caters to customers who desire more sportiness. For the first time, Audi is equipping the Q8 with HD Matrix LED headlights, including a laser as an additional high beam. These headlights feature digital daytime running lights and selectable light signatures. Digital OLED rear lights with four selectable rear light designs complete the expanded light offering. New wheels, colors, decorative inlays, and seats with contrast stitching highlight the car’s top position among the Q models. The new Audi Q8 starts at 86,700 euros.
Revised, generous, striking: the exterior design
With its expressive design, the revised Q8 is a sporty, elegant SUV coupé from the brand with the four rings. With its clean shape, generous surfaces, and clear volumes, the Q8 paints a dynamic picture. The short overhangs and long wheelbase make for sporty, elegant proportions that can be accentuated with distinctive exterior colors and wheels.
The unmistakably powerful and upright Audi Singleframe with an octagon design now impresses with vertical inlays. They are arranged in teardrop shape in the base exterior and designed in the shape of an L in the S line exterior package and the SQ8 TFSI. This makes it clear at first glance that the Q8 belongs to Audi’s top models and clearly differentiates it from the A models. The self-assured appearance of the Q8 is underscored by the new prominent air intakes, which are clearly integrated into the car’s basic architecture.
Audi has systematically reduced the decorative elements for an even more puristic design. In order to distinguish the base version, S line exterior package, and S model at first glance, the underride guard, door attachment trim, and diffuser in the base model come in contrasting colors that underline the robust off-road look. New for all Audi Q8 units is an exhaust system with premium-quality, visually appealing tailpipes. Aligned even more closely with the SQ8 TFSI, the S line exterior package stands out with its clearly accentuated side air intakes in the front bumper.
The Singleframe is sure to impress with its independent color scheme. The optionally available Black and Black Plus optics packages set striking accents in the exterior around the Audi Singleframe, the trim on the side windows, and the front and rear bumpers. What’s more, the Singleframe mask comes finished in high-gloss black.
The innovative headlights featuring HD Matrix LED technology and an additional laser light as well as the digital daytime running lights positioned on the upper horizontal edge give the Q8 an even more self-assured expression. In conjunction with the digital OLED rear lights, which are available for the first time in the Q8, the premium-class character of the model becomes even clearer. At the rear, an LED light strip together with black high-gloss trim and integrated Audi rings links the digital OLED rear lights across the entire width of the car.
The Audi Q8 bears Audi’s new, modern corporate identity. Specifically, this is the newly two-dimensional rings that debuted in the Q8 e-tron. They are visually impressing through their greater precision. Instead of chrome, the new four rings come in contrasting white and black; as part of an optional package, the white of the rings is replaced with a dark gray that still looks like high-gloss black. In the Q8, the B-pillar now also bears the model, derivative, and technology identifier.
A new kind of individualization: headlights and rear lights
High-intensity LED headlights light up the road in the Q8 as standard; Matrix LED headlights are available as an option. HD Matrix LED headlights with the Audi laser light are also available, which work with 24 LEDs and a high-power laser diode each and are immediately recognizable via a blue ambient light incorporated into the headlights. The laser light becomes active starting at 70 km/h (43.5 mph) and significantly increases the high beam range. New for the top-of-the-range headlights are digital daytime running light signatures. They give the Q8 its characteristic and unmistakable appearance by allowing the user to select one of four individual light signatures via the MMI. It’s not just the expanded range of functions in the headlights that is novel – their design is also fresh. The higher positioning of the daytime running lights gives the Q8 more visual width and also creates a flowing, formal connection between the headlights and the Singleframe. For the first time, the Q8 also features large digitalized OLED rear lights (OLED = organic light emitting diode) as an optional extra, which also feature four digital light signatures in conjunction with the headlights.
Similar to the Audi A8 and Q5, the digital OLED rear lights in the Q8 incorporate a proximity indication feature that works in tandem with the assistance systems. When vehicles from behind come within two meters (6.6 ft) of the stationary Q8, the control units trigger the activation of all the digital OLED segments. Additional functions include dynamic turn signals as well as various coming home and leaving home sequences.
Decor, Colors, Wheels: The right equipment range for every taste
With the latest product upgrade, Audi has once again refined the equipment range for the Q8. The seams on the seat trim in the base model now come as standard in a contrasting gray color. There are also nine decorative inlays available to choose from. Adding to the available options in the equipment lineup are: Fine grain ash natural silver for the standard model, Carbon twill matt, and Aluminium linear silver grey for the Q8 featuring the S line sport package, as well as for the SQ8 TFSI. To further underscore the character of the Q8, three new finishes are available. Audi Sport GmbH offers Sakhir Gold, Ascari Blue, and Chili Red, all as metallic finishes. But customers can look forward to additional new features in more than just finishes. For the wheel range offers customers a choice of five new wheel designs, with sizes ranging from 21 to 23 inches for a clear advantage over the competition.
As part of the model update, Audi is also expanding the range of apps. For the first time, passengers can use popular apps from third-party providers (for example Spotify or Amazon music). Regular software updates and a constantly expanding range of apps make for even greater individualization of the infotainment system. A store with a market-specific app portfolio expands the third-generation modular infotainment toolkit (MIB 3). In terms of driver assistance systems, the surroundings display in particular has received a significant upgrade. The Audi virtual cockpit displays a lane change warning, other road users (trucks, cars, and motorcycles) distance warning, intersection assist, and traffic light information online in stunning full HD quality. In addition to the store for apps and the new surroundings display, the product upgrade also expands the standard equipment for the Q8; 20-inch alloy wheels, a rearview camera, park and high beam assist, and the convenience key, among other features, now come as standard.
Steady in every situation: the suspension with Audi’s DNA
Only an Audi drives like an Audi: This is how the brand with the four rings sums up the DNA of an Audi’s driving characteristics, and it’s no less true for the Q8. Five characteristics define the Q8’s handling: balanced, solid, controlled, precise, and effortless. The suspension, steering, and drive as well as the braking and control systems all play a key role in creating a reliably safe, dynamic, and simultaneously comfortable driving experience. Even the standard equipment, with balanced steel spring suspension and damper control, ensures the Q8’s consistent driving experience.
Electronically controlled air suspension with a continuously adaptive damping system – adaptive air suspension or adaptive air suspension sport (standard equipment on the SQ8 TFSI) – can be selected as optional equipment. In addition, optional all-wheel steering (standard equipment on the SQ8 TFSI) ensures an increased level of safety and comfort. At low speeds, the back wheels turn up to five degrees in the opposite direction to the front wheels. This reduces the turning radius, by up to one meter (3.3 ft), and increases manageability. At the same time, the driver feels more comfort and benefits from improved stability at higher speeds because the back wheels turn in the same direction as the front wheels. To improve the Q8’s handling in everyday situations such as maneuvering in parking lots, parking garages, or a home garage, the steering system has been optimized for greater ease.
The right choice for every situation: the powertrains
The range opens with the 45 TDI quattro2, a three-liter diesel engine that has 170 kW (231 PS) of output and delivers an impressive 500 Nm of torque, which extends over a plateau between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm. From a standing start, the Audi Q8 45 TDI2 accelerates to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.1 seconds. It has a top speed of 226 km/h (140 mph). This engine is followed by the 50 TDI quattro3, a more powerful version with 210 kW (286 PS) and 600 Nm of torque. The large SUV accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 241 km/h (150 mph).
The Audi Q8 55 TFSI4 features a six-cylinder Otto engine with three liters of displacement and direct fuel injection that delivers 250 kW (340 PS). It delivers a maximum torque of 500 Nm in a broad engine speed range from 1,370 to 4,500 rpm. With its turbocharged gasoline engine, the Audi Q8 accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.6 seconds. It reaches its electronically governed top speed at 250 km/h (155 mph).
All V6-engines in the Audi Q8 work together with an eight-speed tiptronic, quattro permanent four-wheel drive, and the mild hybrid system, which can achieve a fuel-consumption advantage of up to 0.5 liters per 100 kilometers in customer operation. Its key components are a lithium-ion battery and a belt alternator starter (BAS) that supplies power to the SUV coupé’s 48V main electrical system. When decelerating, the BAS recuperates up to eight kW, which it feeds into the battery. Between 55 and 160 km/h (34 and 99 mph), the Q8 can coast with the engine off for up to 40 seconds when the driver takes their foot off the gas. After braking, the BAS restarts the six-cylinder quickly and very conveniently. The start–stop begins as low as 22 km/h (14 mph).
Superior performance: the Audi SQ8 with a V8 TFSI gas engine
The new SQ8 TFSI advances sportiness even further – it impresses with a redesigned spoiler on the front apron as well as a sporty-looking underride guard at the front and an expressive diffuser at the rear. The Singleframe stands out with vertical L-shaped inlays in a sporty color scheme. The larger air intakes feature honeycomb grilles across their surface.
Characteristically, Audi opts for a sporty aluminum look for the exterior mirror housings, the inlays in the Singleframe and the edging of the side air intakes. The same color scheme is also used for the inlay in the side skirt. The Black and Black plus optics packages can also be ordered for the SQ8 TFSI.
As part of the product upgrade, the SQ8 TFSI now runs on the established 4.0 TFSI with 373 kW (507 PS) and 770 Nm of torque with fast-shifting eight-speed tiptronic and quattro permanent all-wheel drive. With this engine, the SQ8 TFSI1 accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.1 seconds, with an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). With its firing order of 1-3-7-2-6-5-4-8, the 4.0 TFSI provides a distinctive sporty and sonorous sound. At low to medium loads and acceleration speeds – from 160 to 250 Nm and between 950 and 2,500 rpm with a maximum torque requirement of 145 Nm – the cylinder on demand system deactivates cylinders 2, 3, 5, and 8 in the upper gears by shutting off injection and ignition and closing the intake and exhaust valves. The switching process takes just milliseconds and goes virtually unnoticed by the driver. In four-cylinder mode, the operating points in the active cylinders shift to higher load, which boosts thermal efficiency, while the deactivated cylinders follow, essentially with no losses, like gas springs. When the driver presses the accelerator pedal, the deactivated cylinders reactivate immediately. To achieve the sporty sound, there is an exhaust flap on each tailpipe that modulates the sound depending on load and rev speed.
For an ideal driving experience, a vehicle requires not only first-class engines, but also outstanding suspension components. In the optional advanced suspension package, customers also benefit from the sport differential. When cornering at high speed, it uses two multi-disc clutches to shift the torques between the rear wheels, giving the wheel on the outside of the curve, which has the better grip, the greater share. Known as torque vectoring, this makes handling even more effortless and precise. When turning or accelerating in a curve, the large sport SUV coupé literally presses into the curve, minimizing the tendency to understeer. The second component in the package is electromechanical active roll stabilization (eAWS). Here, both axles are equipped with a compact electric motor coupled to a transmission. It splits the stabilizer into two halves. When driving straight, it allows them to work largely independently of each other, which reduces body movements on uneven roads. In sporty driving, however, the electric motor causes the two halves to rotate in opposite directions, thus working together as a unit. This means that the car leans into the curve significantly less, and the steering response becomes more precise. The eAWS is powered by a 48-volt super capacitor. The compact, lightweight energy storage unit, which can absorb and release high currents in a very short time, supplies the two electric motors with a maximum power of 1.5 kW each.
The Audi SQ8 TFSI rolls off the production line with 21-inch wheels and 285/45 tires as standard. Alternatively, Audi and Audi Sport offer other 21- and 22-inch wheels. The largest offer available is 23-inch wheels with 285/35 tires. For greater variety, Audi offers other new 23-inch alloy wheels for the SQ8 TFSI that are specifically designed for the car’s sporty appearance. The brake discs on the front axle have a diameter of 400 millimeters; on the rear axle they measure 350 millimeters. The black brake calipers, which come optionally in red, bear the S logo that defines Audi’s look on the front axle.
Available to order from September, prices from 86.700 euros
The market launch of the Audi Q8 – with its revised design, innovative lighting technology, and more extensive range of equipment – will be in September 2023. Prices for the 45 TDI quattro2 start at 86,700 euros, while the 50 TDI quattro3 costs 89,700 euros. The 55 TFSI quattro4 will cost 89,900 euros, while the SQ8 TFSI starts at 119,500 euros.