Audi Q8 Review: Special Inside and Out
Audi’s latest luxury SUV, the mid-size, five-seater Q8, could sell on looks alone.
Based on the larger three-row Q7 SUV, Audi has ditched the third row, stretched out the second and chopped away at the roof line to produce the new range-topping Q8. This is all in an effort to capitalize on the uniquely Germanic idea of the fastback SUV, in the same vein as the BMW X6 and Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class.
Interestingly, despite having the biggest number in Audi’s Q line-up of SUV models, the Q8 doesn’t feel like a large vehicle. In fact, it delivers a driving experience more like a large hatchback. The optics also scream hatchback thanks, again, to that heavily sloped roofline and a ride height that signifies on-road performance rather than off-road prowess.
Don’t confuse any of this for sporting intentions, however, as the Q8 driving experience is very much that a luxury SUV. The steering is incredibly light, and while planted in the corners, it isn’t intended to melt your face off with speed, that’s what the high-performance SQ8 is for. The 3.0-liter turbocharged TFSI V6 engine is smooth and unobtrusive, as is the 8-speed automatic transmission, so much so that around town it doesn’t feel like it has 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque on tap until you bury your foot into the accelerator and then realize that it’s actually quite quick. This particular Q8 has the optional towing package, and can haul a commendable 7,700 pounds. Though, while mentioning the numbers, it is worth noting that the the Audi is notably down on MPGs compared to rivals like the BMW X6, offering just 17 MPG city, 22 MPG freeway and 19 MPG combined.
The interior of the Q8 is what makes the whole package come together. The interior materials are top notch, but buyers will pay for the privilege as many of the highlight features are available via the $20,000 or so worth of upgrades on this particular vehicle.
Q8 can be specced with either the Premium, Premium Plus or Prestige package, which bundle huge amounts of upgrades with them. While most buyers should opt for the Premium Plus model, this car has the top spec Prestige package, which accounts for $9,150 of the interior goodies. That extra chunk of change adds keys features like Bang & Olufsen audio, ventilated front seats, wireless charging, an upgraded parking camera system, a head-up display, Audi’s clever HD Matrix design LED headlights, LED taillights, power closing doors, sunshades, and a bevy of driver assistance tech like adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist. Then there is the Luxury package, which tacks on another six grand to the price and adds Valcona leather-wrapped adjustable seating with memory functions, extended leather throughout the interior, and, notably, dual pane glass, which further hushes the already quiet interior. Last but not least, don’t forget to opt for the Cold Weather package, which adds a heated steering wheel and heated rear seats.
With nearly a Toyota Corollas-worth of upgrades, the Q8’s cabin is resplendent with every surface feeling special and substantial to the touch. The tech, likewise, is class-leading, with Audi’s MMI infotainment system and the Virtual Cockpit gauge cluster offering unparalleled usability and great tactility. The Q8 is expensive, but it also feels expensive.
With a solid drive, charming looks and an opulent interior, the Audi Q8 is ready for prime time and definitely ready to do battle against its Teutonic opposition. However, tipping the scales at nearly $90,000 out the door and not even fully optioned out, it’s worth noting that, again, like it’s rivals, it’s all too easy to have the price tag soar thanks to luxurious and expensive options and packages, so be careful with the options boxes being ticked. Sharp-eyed buyers would do well to find decently optioned out Premium Plus models for about $80,000 and enjoy all of the key traits that make Q8 feel so special.
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