First thing’s first. The Q8 e-tron has very little in common with the existing Q8 petrol, diesel and SQ8 high-performance models.
These, along with the larger Q7, have internal combustion engines.
However, keep in mind all leverage variations of the same 'MLB Evo' architecture that first saw the light of day all the way back in 2015. So, no spring chickens here.
But as it currently also serves Bentley, Lamborghini and Porsche SUVs, we’re talking about a classy set of components, anyway. Plus, the pre-facelift model was only rolled out on the world market in 2019.
For now, only a single variant is here, known as the Q8 e-tron 55, meaning the previous, smaller-battery 50 and flagship SQ8 aren’t here yet. That will happen sometime during 2024.
As before, there’s the choice of a traditional SUV wagon or more-popular BMW X6-style Sportback SUV coupe.
Prices start at $153,900 (all prices are before on-road costs) for the former and $165,900 for the latter, and that’s a jump of nearly $8K and $9K respectively over their old e-tron-as-a-noun-rather-than-an-adjective predecessors.
At least the Q8 e-tron is well equipped.
On the safety front, you’ll find about 40 driver assistance systems, backed up by a plethora of cameras, radar sensors and ultrasonic sensors to help keep the SUV as secure as possible.
These include a 360-degree camera system, adaptive cruise control, lane-support systems, rear cross-traffic assist and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB).
More on safety further down below.
All models also include adaptive air suspension with a variable ride height range of 76mm, a drive-mode selector that switches between normal and sport settings, LED headlights with auto high beams, keyless entry/start, front and rear climate control, heated and powered front seats and adjustable regenerative braking paddles on the steering wheel.
There's also a head-up display, three digital screens including electronic instrumentation and a central touchscreen with haptic feedback, satellite navigation, Android Auto, wireless Apple CarPlay, digital radio, wireless smartphone charging, four USB-C ports, an electric tailgate with gesture control, roof rails and 20-inch alloy wheels – with a space-saver spare wheel to boot.
Plus, an undisclosed number of Launch Edition SUVs from $165,900 are also available, adding Audi’s S line exterior styling touches, 21-inch wheels, sports front seats, a racier steering wheel, electric steering column adjustment and more.
Note that the base Q8 e-tron 55 does not include leather upholstery (it’s synthetic material instead) or a sunroof as standard.
Pricing and spec, then, are generally in-line with the luxury Euro EV SUV competition, which is to say, a bit on the exxy side.
Let’s check out the changes.