About the Audi Q8

Launched for the 2019 model year, the Q8 is Audi’s de facto flagship SUV. It shares a platform with the Audi Q7, but it ditches that model’s third row while gaining sportier exterior styling and a more exclusive image. An electric Q8 e-tron joined the lineup for 2024, but this is a completely separate vehicle (previously sold as the e-tron) unrelated to the gasoline Q8.

What are the advantages of the Audi Q8?

• Plenty of cargo space
• Impressive technology

What is the best Audi Q8 model year?

Aside from the addition of SQ8 and RS Q8 performance models to the lineup, Audi hasn’t made many significant changes to the Q8 since its launch. An extensive update is expected for the 2024 model year, however.

What are the disadvantages of the Audi Q8?

• Poor ergonomic design
• Fairly pedestrian performance

Comparison: Is the Audi Q8 better than the Audi Q7?

While the two models share underpinnings and some powertrains, the Audi Q7 and Q8 are aimed at different audiences. The three-row Q7 is a practical family SUV, while the two-row Q8 is a full-on luxury model built for trips to the ski resort. That’s also reflected in the Q8’s much higher starting price.

Is the Audi Q8 a reliable car?

For the 2023 model year, the Q8 received a score of 75 out of 100 points in J.D. Power’s customer satisfaction survey. That’s not good enough to crack the top five in the Q8’s competitive set, and it was two points lower than the Q7’s score.

Is the Audi Q8 worth the cost?

The Q8 isn’t meant to be a good value. It was designed for customers who want a stylish SUV but don’t want to go all the way into Bentley Bentayga territory. The Q8 mostly serves its purpose, with the base model’s unremarkable driving dynamics being the main drawback. But customers who want practicality or value should look to the less-expensive Audi Q7.