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 590 horsepower for a claimed 0-60 time of just 3.7 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 20-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, a parking system with rearview camera, leather-appointed seats and Fine Ash wood inlays.
An optional Convenience Package adds an Audi phone box with wireless charging and antenna booster, Audi side assist with rear cross-traffic assist and heated power folding auto-dimming mirrors.
Stepping into the Premium Plus includes the Convenience Package, adds 21-inch 5-spoke W-design wheels, a 3D Bang & Olufsen surround sound system, 4-zone climate control and a Top view camera system with virtual 360 surround view.
The fully-loaded Prestige adds a heads-up display, a leather dashboard with contrast stitching, Alu touch-sensitive buttons as well as sophisticated LED headlights that can shape headlight patterns to adapt to road obstacles and oncoming traffic.
Optional packages like the Luxury Package include an Alcantara headliner, dual pane acoustic glass, individual contour seats and the extended Valcona leather package that includes wrapped center console and armrests.
The Q8, SQ8 and RSQ8 feature a full roster of available advanced safety and driver assist features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, traffic-sign recognition and adaptive cruise control.
