Audi announced a major overhaul of its flagship SUV coupe, the Q8, on October 24, 2024, and began selling it on the same day. The Q8 is a coupe SUV developed based on the top-of-the-line SUV, the Q7, and is the pinnacle of Audi’s SUV lineup. This overhaul has resulted in a completely new interior and exterior design, and the adoption of numerous advanced technologies, making it an even more appealing model.
Exterior: An evolved design that combines boldness and elegance
The exterior of the new Q8 has evolved into a design that further emphasizes sportiness and elegance. At the front, the Singleframe grille is wider and the headlights are positioned higher. The base model comes with LED headlights, while the S line model comes standard with matrix LED headlights with dynamic turn indicators. HD matrix LED headlights with Audi laser light are available as an option.
The HD Matrix LED headlights are made up of 24 LEDs and high-power laser diodes on each side, and the laser high beams are activated when driving at speeds above 70 km/h, illuminating a wide area. The blue position lights accentuate the laser technology and create a cutting-edge image.
Additionally, for the first time in a Q8, digital daytime running lights are used, with four different light signatures available, allowing owners to customize the car to suit their individual preferences.
At the rear, a new rear diffuser and exhaust enhance the sporty look. Digital OLED rear lights are available as an option, with four selectable lighting patterns. These rear lights automatically activate when approaching a vehicle from behind, letting the vehicle know how far away it is.
Interior: First-class comfort and modern design
The interior of the new Q8 offers a first-class, comfortable space, woven with high-quality materials and exquisite craftsmanship. The 12.3-inch digital meter “Audi Virtual Cockpit” and the latest infotainment system with twin displays of 10 and 8.6 inches form an advanced cockpit. The comfortable seats with massage and ventilation functions also reduce fatigue on long drives.
While the Q7 seats seven people with three rows of seats, the Q8 seats five, providing ample rear seat space. Folding down the three-way folding rear seats reveals a spacious luggage space of up to 1,755 liters, making it suitable for a variety of lifestyles.
Powertrain: Efficiency and power
The new Q8 is equipped with the latest diesel and gasoline engines, the latter of which features a 48V mild hybrid system for improved fuel efficiency.
- 50 TDI quattro : V6 3L diesel turbo engine (272ps/61.2kgm)
- 55 TFSI quattro S line : V6 3L gasoline turbo engine + 48V mild hybrid (340ps/51.0kgm)
- SQ8 : V8 4L gasoline twin-turbo engine (507ps/78.5kgm)
All models are fitted with an 8-speed automatic transmission and the quattro 4WD system, which distributes torque between the front and rear wheels 40:60, delivering both excellent handling and traction.
The SQ8 is available with an optional Advanced Suspension package, which includes a rear sport differential and active stabilizers for more agile and precise handling.
Improved safety with advanced driver assistance systems
The new Q8 is equipped with an advanced driver assistance system that integrates 22 sensors and cameras. Adaptive Drive Assist supports acceleration, deceleration, and lane changes in the speed range of 0 to 250 km/h. Emergency Assist, a first for Audi, can automatically stop the vehicle in an emergency. In addition, various driver assistance functions such as Curbstone Assist support safe driving.
Audi “Q8” major improvement price
The prices for the new Q8 are as follows:
| grade | engine | price |
|---|---|---|
| Audi Q8 50 TDI quattro | V6 3.0L diesel turbo | 11,050,000 yen |
| Audi Q8 50 TDI quattro S line | V6 3.0L diesel turbo | 12,280,000 yen |
| Audi Q8 55 TFSI quattro S line | V6 3.0L gasoline turbo + 48V mild hybrid | 12,480,000 yen |
| Audi SQ8 | V8 4.0L gasoline twin turbo | 16,260,000 yen |
A word from the editorial department
With this major improvement, the Audi Q8 has been further refined in all aspects of design, technology, and driving performance, evolving into an attractive SUV coupe. Combining first-class comfort and advanced technology, the Q8 will set a new standard for premium SUV coupes.
Audi Q8
