The SQ8 is a sporty spin on Audi's Q8 midsize SUV. Audi has anointed it with a 500-horsepower V8 and too many performance upgrades to count. It's considerably more dynamic than the standard Q8 and nearly as comfortable. Well-executed tech offerings and a top-notch cabin design round out this pricey SUV's long list of strengths.
2024 Audi SQ8
Pros
- Powerful twin-turbo V8 engine
- Rewarding driving dynamics
- Comfortable, luxurious, high-tech interior
- Stylish and distinctive exterior design
Cons
- High base price
- The infotainment system is distracting
- The driver's seat has too few adjustments
- Limited interior storage
What's new
- Revised styling and wheel designs
- Available Audi laser light headlight technology
- New Audi Connect features
- Part of the first SQ8 generation introduced for 2020
Overview
The Audi SQ8 requires some explanation. First, it is a member of the gasoline-fueled Q8 family, not the electric Q8 e-tron lineup. Second, it is the sport-tuned version of the Q8, nestled between the standard model and the performance-oriented RS Q8. Third, it is what people commonly call an SUV coupe, though Audi's traditionally conservative approach to design results in less visual drama than what you'll find with its main rivals. This year, the five-passenger SQ8 gets minor styling updates, new headlight tech, expanded connected service functions, and other minor modifications while retaining its stealthy good looks and rousing performance.
Edmunds spotlight: Pay more, get less
When choosing an SUV coupe, you'll typically pay more money and get less room for people and cargo. For example, the Audi SQ7 and SQ8 have plenty in common underneath their bodywork, each employing a powerful twin-turbocharged V8 engine delivering 500 horsepower. Since the SQ7 is larger, includes a third-row seat, and has more cargo space, you might think it should cost the most, but it doesn't. The SQ8 carries the pricing premium for its sportier appearance and marginally quicker acceleration. Unexpectedly, the SQ8's back seat offers more legroom (but not headroom) than the second-row seats in the SQ7.
Competitors to consider
The Audi SQ8 competes with the BMW X6 M60i, Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe and Porsche Cayenne S Coupe. The Bimmer and Benz are both less expensive than the Audi, but they don't offer as much standard equipment. The Porsche is priced a little higher and available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain. None of these alternatives, though, is quite as fast as the Audi SQ8, based on manufacturer acceleration claims. Learn more about the Audi SQ8 in our detailed Expert Rating.
Performance
8.0/10
How does the SQ8 drive? Perhaps you want the roar of a V8 or just a sportier driving experience. Either way, the SQ8's superior performance is likely the reason you're upgrading from the regular Q8. This performance-minded model does not disappoint, with an engine capable of rocketing this SUV from 0 to 60 mph in an impressively quick 4.0 seconds.
Slowing the SQ8 is effortless in day-to-day driving thanks to well-calibrated brakes. Well-controlled body roll also gives the driver considerable confidence to explore the SQ8's dynamic prowess.
The SQ8 isn't perfect, however. Our test model's all-season tires didn't deliver the grip we were expecting to match this model's power — the no-cost summer tires would have been a better match. The SQ8 isn't super smooth when driving around town either. There's some lag between when you press the accelerator and the transmission downshifting, and the auto stop-start system turns off the engine too early, resulting in lurchy stops.
Comfort
8.5/10
How comfortable is the SQ8? The SQ8 is surprisingly comfortable given its sporting pretensions. In the Comfort drive mode, the standard adaptive suspension dampers and air suspension provide the pillow-like ride you'd expect of a luxury SUV. It doesn't feel floaty either. You can also dial up the Dynamic mode for a firmer feel.
The leather upholstery is soft, and the padding is comfortable but supportive. But we'd prefer that the SQ8's sport front seats offered more adjustments. Also, their fixed front headrests may not fit all body types. Fixed headrests aren't unusual on sports cars, but they are overkill on a family-friendly SUV.
Four-zone climate control comes standard, as do heated and ventilated front seats. The SQ8, just like the regular Q8, has a two-tier touchscreen setup, with the lower touchscreen used to control climate functions. Our team was split on its effectiveness — some found it distracting to use. But you can always use voice controls so you don't take your eyes off the road. Outside noise is adequately muted, and you'll only hear the throaty exhaust of the V8 under hard acceleration.
Interior
7.5/10
How’s the interior? Audi's bold decision to go full touchscreen on its latest infotainment interface is controversial. Some of our team found it distracting and easy to smudge, while others liked the clean look and operation. We were more united in our dislike of the Q8's limited visibility, caused by the steep rake of the front windshield and the thick front and rear roof pillars.
The Q8 offers plenty of room. The space up front is generous even if the lower roofline gives the impression of less headroom than there is. Unfortunately, the lack of seat adjustments and fixed headrest might cause discomfort for some drivers. The rear seating is roomier than what you'll find in other coupe-like SUVs. There's excellent legroom, lots of toe clearance and ample headroom. The wide rear bench can hold three adults in agreeable comfort.
Technology
8.5/10
How’s the tech? Operating the SQ8's infotainment interface is controversial, but you can't deny that the SQ8's cabin tech looks fully modern and comes with plenty of features. We like that it supports wireless Apple CarPlay too. The standard Bang & Olufsen audio system is quite powerful but requires fine-tuning to alleviate some muddiness on tracks with a lot of instruments.
Audi's voice control system isn't as comprehensive as Mercedes' MBUX, but it's still very good compared to the majority of systems on the market. It will pull up an address or point of interest quickly, activate the driver's seat heater, or switch to a satellite radio station with ease.
Most driver aids are standard and work well. The only issue we found was with the adaptive cruise control system, which overestimated the amount of braking needed when traveling downhill.
Storage
8.0/10
How’s the storage? The SQ8's design preserves most of the cargo space that you'd normally get from the three-row SQ7. The air suspension allows you to lower the rear for easier access to a wide cargo area, too. The split seats fold flat and provide a decent 30.5 cubic feet of cargo space. Storage is scarce for small items aside from the sizable door pockets.
Planning to use your 500-hp super SUV as a family taxi? Car seat anchors hide behind removable covers, and the generous legroom ensures car seats of any size will fit.
The optional towing package gives the SQ8 a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, which is generous for the class.
Fuel Economy
7.5/10
How’s the fuel economy? EPA-estimated fuel economy for the SQ8 stands at 17 mpg combined. The SQ8 is slightly thirstier than other performance-oriented midsize SUVs, but not so much so that it makes much of a difference. Buyers looking for a fast, roomy SUV likely won't care anyway. Our test vehicle managed 19.8 mpg on our real-world test route, proving the EPA's estimate is achievable in the real world.
Value
7.5/10
Is the SQ8 a good value? There's no question the SQ8's interior is worth the price. Except for the upper door trim section, all surfaces are trimmed in luxury materials. Build quality is up to Audi's typically high standards, and the high-tech design makes an impression on first-time passengers. In general, we think the SQ8 is appropriately priced considering what you get and how it compares to similar versions of the Porsche Cayenne and BMW X5.
Basic and powertrain coverage lasts for four years/50,000 miles, while roadside assistance is offered for four years/unlimited miles. All are average for the class.
Wildcard
9.0/10
There's a lot to love about the SQ8 from behind the wheel. It's tremendously quick, turning responses are sharp, and the engine is boisterous. The SQ8's composed handling is a testament to Audi's engineering. There's no way a big, heavy SUV should be this enjoyable on a tight, twisty road. Our test vehicle's all-season tires were the only sore spot; throw a set of summers on this beast and go have fun.
The SQ8 is one of the only SUVs to offer style and practicality in equal measure. The base Q8 was already a showstopper, and the SQ8's more aggressive aero kit only adds to the visual appeal. And unlike with the current crop of coupe-like SUVs, the sporty roofline doesn't come at the expense of rear headroom or cargo space. Go ahead: Have your cake and eat it too.
Which SQ8 does Edmunds recommend?
When you're spending this kind of money on a luxury SUV, what's another few grand to get the best? That's why we recommend the SQ8 Prestige, which is your ticket to more luxurious interior fittings, massaging front seats, night vision technology, and a high-end 23-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system.
Audi SQ8 models
The 2024 Audi SQ8 is a sport-tuned two-row luxury midsize SUV. It comes in Premium Plus and Prestige trim levels. Each is equipped with a turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine (500 horsepower, 568 lb-ft of torque), an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Keep reading for our breakdown of the SQ8's most significant features and options.