What is it?
The Q8 e-tron is Audi's flagship large electric SUV, the facelifted evolution of the original 2019 e-tron with a bigger battery, a more efficient motor and a redesigned nose with the new four ring logo. Built on the older MLB evo derived 400V platform, not the new PPE. Three drivetrains across SUV and Sportback bodies, all quattro AWD: 50 e-tron on the 95 kWh battery, 55 e-tron and SQ8 sharing the larger 114 kWh pack. 1,800 kg braked tow rating, 170 kW DC peak, 5 star ANCAP from 2019.
The lineup runs from 50 e-tron quattro SUV at $148,400 plus on-roads, through to SQ8 Sportback e-tron at $204,400 plus on-roads. Warranty cover sits at 5 years, unlimited km.
Interior and Technology
Up to 582 km WLTP on the 55 e-tron with the 114 kWh battery, and a genuine 1,800 kg braked tow rating that few EVs match. 569 L boot is class leading, plus a 62 L frunk. SQ8 tri motor delivers 370 kW with rear torque vectoring. Optional virtual exterior mirrors remain a unique party trick.
400V architecture means 170 kW DC peak is mid pack at this money. The newer Q6 e-tron is cheaper, charges faster and is almost as roomy. 5 year warranty trails Polestar and Korean rivals. SQ8 Sportback at $204,400 plus on-roads crosses into Porsche Cayenne EV territory.
Should you buy the Q8 e-tron?
Reasons to buy
- Up to 582 km WLTP on the 55 e-tron with the 114 kWh battery, and a genuine 1,800 kg braked tow rating that few EVs match. 569 L boot is class leading, plus a 62 L frunk. SQ8 tri motor delivers 370 kW with rear torque vectoring. Optional virtual exterior mirrors remain a unique party trick.
- Warranty: 5 years, unlimited km. EV battery: 8 years, 160,000 km.
- 5-star ANCAP (2019), full driver-assist suite.
- 569 L (plus 62 L frunk) boot, segment-competitive cargo space.
- Braked towing rated at 1,800 kg.
Reasons to wait
- 400V architecture means 170 kW DC peak is mid pack at this money. The newer Q6 e-tron is cheaper, charges faster and is almost as roomy. 5 year warranty trails Polestar and Korean rivals. SQ8 Sportback at $204,400 plus on-roads crosses into Porsche Cayenne EV territory.
- You want 800V hardware (step to the Q6 e-tron), a 7 seat layout (Volvo EX90), or sub $130k pricing.
- If you do not need the bigger boot or the tow rating, the Q6 e-tron is the smarter buy. Confirm virtual mirror option matches your driving style, the small OLED displays take getting used to.
- Top trim climbs to $204,400 plus on-roads.
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