Audi has been on an organised electric roadmap since the release of the Audi e-tron about four years ago and sales of 150,000 units. There are currently eight vehicles in its electric lineup. It will have more than 20 by 2026. Audi will then solely be introducing completely electric cars to the world market.
By renaming this model the Q8, Audi is making a clear statement that the Audi Q8 e-tron is the flagship model among its electric SUVs and Coupe SUVs. The Audi Q8 e-tron and Q8 Sportback e-tron are immediately identifiable as fully electric models, marked out by the new front and rear designs that carry Audi’s electric design language forward. As a prestigious electric SUV model from Audi, the Q8 e-tron ushers in the new corporate identity with a two-dimensional design of the four rings on the exterior. The model lettering with an Audi logo on the B-pillar is a new feature.
With a vehicle length of 4,915mm, a width of 1,937mm, and a height of 1,619mm for the Sportback and 1,633mm for the SUV, the Q8 e-tron offers a maximum amount of space and comfort. The SQ8 e-tron and SQ8 Sportback e-tron are each two millimetres lower and 39 millimetres wider. Its wheelbase of 2,928mm allows for plenty of legroom in the back seats too. It has a generous storage volume of 569 litres for the SUV and 528 litres for the Sportback. There are also 62 litres available in the front storage area, the so-called “frunk”.
For both body shapes, three drivetrain variants with electric all-wheel drive are available. Driven by two motors, the base models of the Audi Q8 50 e-tron and the Audi Q8 Sportback 50 e-tron generate 250kW (340PS) in boost mode and 664Nm of torque, and they get a WLTP range of up to 281 miles (SUV) and up to 290 miles (Sportback) in UK versions.
Sitting above in the lineup is the Audi Q8 55 e-tron and Audi Q8 Sportback 55 e-tron, which are also driven by two electric motors. The models generate 300kW (408PS) in boost mode and 664Nm of torque. Their ranges are up to 330 miles for the SUV and up to 343 miles for the Sportback in the UK. The top speed, and that of the Q8 50 e-tron, is limited to 124mph.
The top-end Audi SQ8 e-tron and Audi SQ8 Sportback e-tron are driven by three motors. Their boost performance amounts to 370 kW (503PS) and 973 Nm of torque. The range of the S models is up to 284 miles for the SUV and up to 295 miles for the Sportback. Top speed is limited to 130mph.
On sale mid November, first deliveries due April 2023
