A Quick Take
Audi’s Q8 has always been that SUV that blends style, tech, and performance in a way that makes it feel more like a luxury coupe than a traditional SUV. And now, for 2025, Audi has sharpened things up a little more. The Q8 remains the refined, high-end luxury SUV, while the SQ8 dials up the aggression with a twin-turbo V8 that basically laughs at speed limits.
So, what’s new? Subtle exterior tweaks, improved tech, and, of course, a price tag that reminds you these aren’t just any SUVs. Let’s break it all down.
Audi Q8 & SQ8 Exterior: Familiar Yet Sharper
Audi Q8: Keeping It Classy
The 2025 Audi Q8 hasn’t gone through a drastic makeover, and honestly, it didn’t need one. Instead, it gets:
- Tweaked front and rear fascias—sharper lighting signatures and slightly bolder styling.
- New wheel designs—because no luxury SUV update is complete without a fresh set of alloys.
- That wide, low stance—still inspired by classic Quattro rally cars from the ‘80s.
- Underpinnings shared with the Lamborghini Urus & Porsche Cayenne, which means it’s got solid bones.
Audi SQ8: The Beast Mode Q8
The SQ8? It’s everything the Q8 is, but sportier and meaner.
- Larger front grille with a more aggressive stance.
- Quad exhaust outlets—because two just wouldn’t be enough.
- 23-inch wheels available, wrapped in low-profile performance rubber.
- Upgraded brakes and a sportier suspension to handle all that extra muscle under the hood.
Verdict: The Q8 keeps things sophisticated, while the SQ8 lets people know you mean business.
Audi Q8 & SQ8 Interior & Tech: Pure Audi Luxury
Audi Q8: Understated Elegance
Inside, it’s classic Audi—minimalist, premium, and built like it’ll last a lifetime.
- Leather everywhere—seats, dashboard, door panels. You name it.
- Standard heated, ventilated, and massaging seats—because why not?
- Dual-screen MMI system—sharp graphics, haptic feedback, but no physical buttons (which some people won’t love).
- Audi’s digital cockpit—fully customizable, crisp, and intuitive.
- Cargo space? 30.2 cubic feet behind the second row, expandable to 61 cubic feet (less than the Q7, though).
Audi SQ8: More Sport, Same Luxury
The SQ8 doesn’t stray too far from the Q8’s formula, but you’ll notice:
- Contrast stitching & carbon fiber trim to remind you this isn’t just a regular Q8.
- Alcantara inserts available for that extra sporty touch.
- Premium Bang & Olufsen sound system—because if you’re spending six figures, your music better sound incredible.
- Vehicle-to-infrastructure tech that helps with real-time traffic updates.
Rear seats? Plenty of legroom, but the middle seat in the second row is a tight squeeze.
Verdict: Audi nails the balance between tech, comfort, and sophistication—though the lack of physical buttons might frustrate some.
Performance: Quick or Insanely Quick?
Audi Q8: Fast Enough for Most People
- 3.0L turbocharged V6 making 335 hp & 365 lb-ft of torque.
- 0-60 mph in 5 seconds—pretty quick for an SUV this size.
- 8-speed automatic transmission—smooth and responsive.
- Quattro all-wheel drive for grip in all conditions.
- Towing capacity? Not bad, especially with the optional towing package.
- Fuel economy: 19 mpg combined (requires premium fuel).
Audi SQ8: Absolute Monster Mode
- 4.0L twin-turbo V8 pumping out 500 hp & 568 lb-ft of torque.
- 0-60 mph in just 4 seconds—which is nuts for something this big.
- Active roll stabilization & sport rear differential available to keep things tight in corners.
- Exhaust note? Deep, aggressive, and just the right amount of obnoxious.
- Fuel economy: 17 mpg combined (and much worse if you drive it like it begs to be driven).
Verdict: The Q8 is quick. The SQ8 is absurdly fast. Pick your poison.
Driving Experience: Comfort Meets Performance
- Adaptive air suspension adjusts between comfort and sport modes seamlessly.
- Precise steering that feels balanced and confidence-inspiring.
- SQ8’s active roll stabilization makes it feel far more agile than an SUV should.
- Super quiet cabin—even at high speeds, road and wind noise are minimal.
- Traffic Jam Assist & ADAS offer semi-autonomous driving for those annoying city commutes.
Verdict: Audi’s suspension tuning is on point. The SQ8 especially defies physics for an SUV of its size.
Audi Q8 & SQ8 Pricing & Is It Worth It?
- Audi Q8: Starts at $74,895, with a fully loaded Prestige model pushing $100,000+.
- Audi SQ8: Starts at $97,795, but if you tick all the right boxes, expect to pay $127,000+.
- Compared to a Porsche Cayenne? The SQ8 gives similar performance for a bit less cash.
Verdict: Not cheap, but buyers in this segment aren’t exactly worried about fuel savings or bargain hunting.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stylish & aggressive design | Fuel economy isn’t great |
| High-quality interior materials | No physical controls for climate/media |
| Strong engine performance | Cargo space is smaller than the Q7 |
| Smooth, responsive transmission | Price climbs fast with options |
| Advanced driver-assist features | Rear middle seat isn’t spacious |
| Adaptive air suspension for superb ride comfort | SQ8’s real-world MPG can be brutal |
FAQs
1. Is the 2025 Audi Q8 worth it over the Q7?
Depends. The Q8 looks sportier and drives better, but you lose the third-row seating. If you need space for more passengers, the Q7 makes more sense.
2. How does the SQ8 compare to a Porsche Cayenne?
The SQ8 matches the Cayenne’s performance but costs less. However, the Porsche has sharper handling and a bit more prestige.
3. What’s the real-world fuel economy like?
Officially:
Q8: 19 mpg combined
SQ8: 17 mpg combined (but expect worse if you have a heavy foot).
4. Does the SQ8 have a third row?
Nope. Just two rows, five seats. If you need three rows, check out the Q7 or the upcoming Q9.
5. What are the main rivals to the Q8 and SQ8?
BMW X6 (similar coupe-like SUV).
Mercedes GLE Coupe (more plush, less sporty).
Porsche Cayenne (better handling, pricier).
Genesis GV80 (cheaper, but impressive luxury).
Final Verdict
The 2025 Audi Q8 & SQ8 deliver style, performance, and high-end luxury in a package that feels just right. The Q8 is a refined daily driver, while the SQ8 is the muscle car of SUVs. Yes, they’re pricey, but if you want a high-end SUV that turns heads and still feels comfortable on a long drive, these are solid choices.
Would I buy one? If my bank account allowed it—absolutely.
Author- Ayush
