Audi Q8: A Refreshed Flagship SUV with Upgrades and Sleek Design
Audi’s flagship SUV, the Q8, is set to receive a refresh with wide-ranging technology upgrades, improved perceived quality, and a simpler exterior design. The new Audi Q8 range will be available in the UK from 10 October, with prices starting from £75,500.
The Audi Q8 range consists of three core specifications: S Line, Black Edition, and Vorsprung. These specifications offer a choice of petrol and diesel powertrains. The range is topped by the performance-focused Audi SQ8, which comes in Black Edition and Vorsprung variants.
The entry-level S Line models come with electric sports seats, keyless go, a digital cockpit, a head-up display, four-zone climate control, and a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system. On the other hand, Black Edition models feature black trim both inside and out, including 22-inch wheels, door mirrors, and Audi badges. The Black Edition cars start from £80,050. For those looking for a high-spec option, the Vorsprung cars are priced from £99,300 and offer a panoramic sunroof, all-wheel steering, powerful LED headlights, leather upholstery, massage seats, heated rear seats, and power-closing doors.
The powerful SQ8 is priced from £97,245 and boasts bespoke exterior styling and 23-inch alloy wheels as standard. It also features Quattro all-wheel drive, adaptive air sports suspension, and parking assistance.
The redesigned Audi Q8 features subtle styling changes inspired by the recently updated Audi Q8 E-tron. These changes include matrix LED lights, smoother surfacing, larger front air intakes for a more aggressive look, and a new exhaust system that promises an enhanced engine note. The most noticeable visual tweak is the redesigned grille with vertical inlays and a brushed aluminum effect. Higher-trim cars also receive color-coded body trim for a more minimalist look.
Under the hood, the Audi Q8 retains its range of engines, including the 500bhp 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 found in the Porsche Cayenne Turbo and Lamborghini Urus. The SQ8 also features cylinder deactivation, allowing it to run on four cylinders. The Q8 60 TFSI uses a 3.0-liter turbocharged petrol V6 with 335bhp, while the diesel options include the 45 TDI with a 227bhp 3.0-liter V6 and the 50 TDI with a 282bhp version.
To enhance its presence on the road, the Q8’s headlights are available with redesigned matrix LEDs that make the front of the car look wider. The driver can choose between four different light signatures using the infotainment system. The rear lights have also been restyled with gloss trim and feature Audi’s Dynamic Light function, which can display a red triangular warning symbol to warn other drivers of obstructions.
Inside, the Audi Q8 receives minimal changes. It offers three new trim options: Sakhir Gold, Ascari Blue, and Chili Red, all with a metallic finish. The infotainment system now supports third-party apps, allowing drivers to stream services from Amazon Music or Spotify. The Audi virtual cockpit display has also been upgraded with sharper graphics.
Overall, the refreshed Audi Q8 offers a range of upgrades and a sleeker design. With its wide-ranging technology improvements and improved perceived quality, it is set to impress SUV enthusiasts. The Audi Q8 range will be available in the UK from 10 October, starting at £75,500.