The Q8 introduces a refreshing and civilized option in a segment full of a wide variety of offerings. All Q8s are powered by a 3.0L TFSI V6 producing 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. With standard rear-wheel bias, all-wheel drive and an 8-speed automatic transmission for lightning quick shifts, the Q8 performs quite well for a large SUV with under 350 horsepower. All Q8s are also equipped with Audi's new 48-volt mild hybrid system, which permits extended stop-start functionality and extended engine-off coasting at highway speeds.
For those lusting for more power, the SQ8 utilizes a turbocharged 4.0L V8 engine mated to the same 8-speed automatic as the Q8. However, unlike the Q8, the SQ8 produces 500 horsepower and an even more impressive 568 lb-ft of torque. Audi claims a 0-60 time of just 4.3 seconds for the SQ8.
But all versions of the Q8 share their same basic chassis architecture with vehicles such as the Porsche Cayenne and the Lamborghini Urus, so Audi knows the platform is capable of handling even more power. Enter the RSQ8, which has an even stronger version of the 4.0L V8 from the SQ8 along with adaptive air suspension for better handling. In RSQ8 form, the engine produces 591 horsepower for a claimed 0-60 time of just 3.6 seconds. When equipped with the optional carbon ceramic brakes, Audi says the RSQ8 should be able to achieve 190 mph on a racetrack.
Standard features on Premium models include 21-inch wheels, dual 10.1-inch infotainment multimedia touch screen and an 8.6-inch touch screen for climate control and data input, MMI Navigation plus with touch response and virtual cockpit, a panoramic moonroof, leather-appointed seats and Fine Ash wood inlays.
The athletic yet luxurious Q8 comes loaded features, including power folding heated mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control with separate rear controls, SiriusXM satellite radio, 10-speaker, Amazon Alexa integration, voice-activated navigation, Audi smartphone interface, keyless entry with push button start, refrigerated glovebox, ambient lighting, High Beam Assist, LED daytime running lights and power liftgate.
The Audi Q8 Premium comes with multiple safety features including front and rear parking sensors, lane departure warning system, Audi Side Assist, pedestrian prevention, forward collision mitigation and other Audi pre sense safety systems.
The Audi SQ8 adds posher materials, diamond stitched seating, 21-inch wheels, illuminated sill plates and 17-speaker Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system
The RS Q8 is the most powerful model of the Q8 lineup. It comes with 590-horsepower, 22-inch alloy wheels and an interior that resembles many supercars on the market.
The Q8, SQ8 and RSQ8 feature a full roster of available advanced safety and driver assist features, lane departure warning system, Audi Side Assist, pedestrian prevention, forward collision mitigation and other Audi pre sense safety systems.
Muscular Exterior
Sleek And Luxurious Interior
Advanced Safety And Semi-autonomous Driving Capability
Standard Quattro All-wheel-drive System
Robust Engine Options
Available Adjustable Air Suspension
For 2023, the Audi Q8, SQ8 and RS Q8 all carry over with minimal changes.
The Audi Q7 blazed the way for the Audi Q8 to jump into the ring that is the luxury mid-size SUV segment. However, the Q8 changes the game, with a 5-seater design rather than seven seats like its predecessor. This gives the Q8 adequate cargo capacity for a couple golf bags while providing a luxurious ride for a full boat of passengers. The Q8's Virtual Cockpit instrument cluster, its luxurious interior and superb drivetrain gives rivals like the BMW X6, Porsche Cayenne, Range Rover and Mercedes-Benz GLE real competition.
