2025 Audi SQ8

Price Range: $97,600 - $104,900

The 2025 Audi SQ8 builds on the standard Q8 midsize SUV with a 500-horsepower V8, upgraded suspension and handling, and a higher grade of buttery leather interior. While it offers many of the same features as the Q8, including well-executed in-car tech and driver assist tech, the SQ8 is quicker, sharper and more intoxicating.Read full review

Rank #4

9 Midsize performance SUVs

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2025
2024
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Audi SQ8 for Sale

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Edmunds suggests you pay

$95,317

1 for sale near you

Prices based on sales in IL thru 6/16/25

Final assembly in Slovakia

2025 Audi SQ8 Review

by the Edmunds Experts

Pros

Powerful twin-turbo V8 engine
Rewarding driving dynamics
Comfortable, luxurious, high-tech interior
Stylish and distinctive exterior design

Cons

High base price
The infotainment system is distracting
Limited driver's seat adjustments
Limited interior storage

What's new

Traffic sign recognition and LED interior lighting now standard
Prestige trim adds standard front seat massage and memory functions
New Carbon and Audi Sport Express Red stitching option packages
Part of the first SQ8 generation introduced for 2020

Overview

It's tricky keeping track of Audi's alphanumeric soup of a lineup, a jumble of consonants, numbers and a single vowel. And that's before factoring in the separate E-tron portfolio of electric vehicles. The Audi SQ8 is easy to remember, though: three characters, two rows, 500 horsepower. The SQ8 is the middle child in Audi's luxury SUV lineup, a higher performer than the standard Q8 but less elite than the blistering RS Q8. With only two rows, the SQ8's audience is more specific than its three-row SQ7 counterpart, but both are equally capable and dashing.

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Illinois

$319/mo

$251/mo

Avg. Large SUV

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Edmunds spotlight: The price for style

Coupe-style SUVs like the SQ8, with their tapering rear roofs meant to evoke smaller, sportier two-doors, typically command a premium over their boxier counterparts. Usually the extra money also gets you less headroom and cargo space, making it a pricey aesthetic indulgence. Both the SQ7 and SQ8 use the same 500-hp V8 engine and perform in equal measure. In our testing, the SQ7 was actually 0.1 second faster to 60 mph. With negligible differences in performance and handling, choosing between the two really comes down to style and your need for a third row. The SQ8 also has more rear seat legroom, a possible factor if you intend to regularly shuttle clients or colleagues.

Competitors to consider

Sporty SUV "coupes" abound among European rivals. The BMW X6 M60i and Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe offer similar style and performance at a lower price but come with fewer standard features. Neither offers as much cargo space. The Porsche Cayenne S Coupe's sharp handling and control make it the driving enthusiast's choice, but it costs a fair bit more than the Audi and isn't as roomy. The Cayenne is also available as a plug-in hybrid if a short range of electric-only motoring appeals to you. Learn more about the Audi SQ8 in our detailed Expert Rating below.

Edmunds Expert Rating

Our Verdict

Great

8.1

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

Rated for you by America's best test team.

Performance

8/10

How does the SQ8 drive? Perhaps you want the roar of a V8 or just a sportier driving experience. Either way, the SQ8's superior performance is likely the reason you're upgrading from the regular Q8. This performance-minded model does not disappoint, with an engine capable of rocketing this SUV from 0 to 60 mph in an impressively quick 4.0 seconds.

Slowing the SQ8 is effortless in day-to-day driving thanks to well-calibrated brakes. Well-controlled body roll also gives the driver considerable confidence to explore the SQ8's dynamic prowess.

The SQ8 isn't perfect, however. Our test model's all-season tires didn't deliver the grip we were expecting to match this model's power — the no-cost summer tires would have been a better match. The SQ8 isn't super smooth when driving around town either. There's some lag between when you press the accelerator and the transmission downshifting, and the auto stop-start system turns off the engine too early, resulting in lurchy stops.

Comfort

8.5/10

How comfortable is the SQ8? The SQ8 is surprisingly comfortable given its sporting pretensions. In the Comfort drive mode, the standard adaptive suspension dampers and air suspension provide the pillow-like ride you'd expect of a luxury SUV. It doesn't feel floaty either. You can also dial up the Dynamic mode for a firmer feel.

The leather upholstery is soft, and the padding is comfortable but supportive. But we'd prefer that the SQ8's sport front seats offered more adjustments. Also, their fixed front headrests may not fit all body types. Fixed headrests aren't unusual on sports cars, but they are overkill on a family-friendly SUV.

Four-zone climate control comes standard, as do heated and ventilated front seats. The SQ8, just like the regular Q8, has a two-tier touchscreen setup, with the lower touchscreen used to control climate functions. Our team was split on its effectiveness — some found it distracting to use. But you can always use voice controls so you don't take your eyes off the road. Outside noise is adequately muted, and you'll only hear the V8's throaty exhaust under hard acceleration.

Interior

7.5/10

How’s the interior? Audi's bold decision to go full touchscreen on its latest infotainment interface is controversial. Some of our team found it distracting and easy to smudge, while others liked the clean look and operation. We were more united in our dislike of the Q8's limited visibility, caused by the steep rake of the front windshield and the thick front and rear roof pillars.

The Q8 offers plenty of room. The space up front is generous even if the lower roofline gives the impression of less headroom than there is. Unfortunately, the lack of seat adjustments and fixed headrest might cause discomfort for some drivers. The rear seating is roomier than what you'll find in other coupe-like SUVs. There's excellent legroom, lots of toe clearance and ample headroom. The wide rear bench can hold three adults in agreeable comfort.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

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2025 Audi SQ8 pricing in Chicago, IL

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Build & Price

Technology

8.5/10

How’s the tech? Operating the SQ8's infotainment interface is controversial, but you can't deny that the SQ8's cabin tech looks fully modern and comes with plenty of features. We like that it supports wireless Apple CarPlay too. The standard Bang & Olufsen audio system is quite powerful but requires fine-tuning to alleviate some muddiness on tracks with a lot of instruments.

Audi's voice control system isn't as comprehensive as Mercedes' MBUX, but it's still very good compared to the majority of systems on the market. It will pull up an address or point of interest quickly, activate the driver's seat heater, or switch to a satellite radio station with ease.

Most driver aids are standard and work well. The only issue we found was with the adaptive cruise control system, which overestimated the amount of braking needed when traveling downhill.

Storage

8/10

How’s the storage? The SQ8's design preserves most of the cargo space that you'd usually get from the three-row SQ7. The air suspension allows you to lower the rear for easier access to a wide cargo area, too. The split seats fold flat and provide a decent 30.5 cubic feet of cargo space. Storage is scarce for small items aside from the sizable door pockets.

Planning to use your 500-hp super SUV as a family taxi? Car seat anchors hide behind removable covers, and the generous legroom ensures car seats of any size will fit.

The optional towing package gives the SQ8 a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, which is generous for the class.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

Fuel Economy

7.5/10

How’s the fuel economy? EPA-estimated fuel economy for the SQ8 stands at 17 mpg combined. The SQ8 is slightly thirstier than other performance-oriented midsize SUVs, but not so much so that it makes much of a difference. Buyers looking for a fast, roomy SUV likely won't care anyway. Our test vehicle managed 19.8 mpg on our real-world test route, proving the EPA's estimate is achievable in the real world.

Value

7.5/10

Is the SQ8 a good value? There's no question the SQ8's interior is worth the price. Except for the upper door trim section, all surfaces are trimmed in luxury materials. Build quality is up to Audi's typically high standards, and the high-tech design makes an impression on first-time passengers. In general, we think the SQ8 is appropriately priced considering what you get and how it compares to similar versions of the Porsche Cayenne and BMW X5.

Basic and powertrain coverage lasts for four years/50,000 miles, while roadside assistance is offered for four years/unlimited miles. All are average for the class.

Wildcard

9/10

There's a lot to love about the SQ8 from behind the wheel. It's tremendously quick, turning responses are sharp, and the engine is boisterous. The SQ8's composed handling is a testament to Audi's engineering. There's no way a big, heavy SUV should be this enjoyable on a tight, twisty road. Our test vehicle's all-season tires were the only sore spot; throw a set of summers on this beast and go have fun.

The SQ8 is one of the only SUVs to offer style and practicality in equal measure. The base Q8 was already a showstopper, and the SQ8's more aggressive aero kit only adds to the visual appeal. And unlike with the current crop of coupe-like SUVs, the sporty roofline doesn't come at the expense of rear headroom or cargo space. Go ahead: Have your cake and eat it too.

Which SQ8 does Edmunds recommend?

You're already spending six digits on a luxury SUV, so why not go all the way for the best the SQ8 has to offer? We recommend the Prestige because it includes or opens the door to indulgences like massaging front seats, heated rear seats, extra tech (self-parking system, night vision), and a high-end 23-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system.

Compare 2025 Audi SQ8 trim levels

Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart

Audi SQ8 Owner Reviews

5.0

14 reviews

5(100%)

4(0%)

3(0%)

2(0%)

1(0%)

The overall sentiment about the 2025 Audi SQ8 is positive. Owners love the car's powerful engine, smooth ride, and luxurious interior with all the latest technology. They appreciate how fun it is to drive and how stylish it looks. However, some owners mention that the car doesn't get great gas mileage and wish for more storage space and options for the driver's seat.

This summary is AI-generated from the text of owner reviews

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Most Helpful Owner Review

Switched from Audi Q8 55 TFSI to Audi SQ8.

Philip, 09/21/2020

2020 Audi SQ8 Prestige 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A)

I loved the looks of the Q8 when I first spotted it in 2019. I remember seeing it for the first time driving through a Whole Foods parking lot, wondering what model it was. It didn't look like anything I'd seen from Audi. There was a more sporty look to it compared to the Audi Q7, which I thought looked too much like a Wagon. Audi managed to beat out BMW and Mercedes in terms of looks … for a Sports Activity Coupe type vehicle. The rear end of the BMW X6 is just ghastly, and while the Mercedes GLE is a somewhat better take on the coupe version of an SUV, Audi managed to execute the look much better, especially toward the rear of the vehicle. The interior of the Audi Q8 is phenomenal, clean, and if you love tech, this IS your vehicle. People complain about the piano black interiors, but you can't beat the clean lines. In particular, Audi did an amazing job incorporating the air vents across the panel with a seamless, modern look. You get used to having no real buttons (only digital), very quickly, especially if you become accustomed using the steering wheel buttons to navigate the Audi's numerous functions. Here's where I start complaining. The Audi 6-cylinder Q8 55 TFSI has terrible throttle lag. I called my local Audi dealership several times about the Auto Stop/Start function not engaging quick enough. Often times, the engine would shut off at a rolling stop at an intersection, anticipating a full stop. However, if the intersection was clear, in normal driving one would go ahead and proceed with a turn. You would apply the pedal as you rolled out into the intersection, but always to my surprise, the engine would not engage. It was a good 2-4 seconds before power went from the pedal to the engine. Human intuition is to apply more pedal if you aren't getting a response, so by the time the engine finally accepted the pedal inputs, you would be quite heavy on the pedal and the vehicle would lurch aggressively forward, with you being already panicked about the stall you are experiencing in the middle of an intersection. My dealership's response to this was that it was a driving characteristic of the car. It was not. At my 10K mileage service, they admitted there was a problem, and they had developed a patch for it. They applied the tuning patch, and it did help things some. The 6-cylinder, 55 TFSI's transmission is quite odd as well. It's almost as if first and second gears do not exist, as the engine shifts from these gears very quickly, and the feel is very unnatural. At this point, the SQ8 was becoming more widely available in the US, and I found one about 200 miles from home. I decided to test drive it. The 8-cylinder SQ8 is by far much better than the 6-cylinder 55 TFSI. The engine is incredibly responsive, with so much power available in every gear. The transmission shifts as one would expect and anticipate. The sound of the SQ8 is throaty, but not annoyingly loud or obnoxious, unless you want it to be. Part of me thinks the exhaust note responds to the way you are driving, as the more aggressively you drive the vehicle, the more pops and cracks you hear on the downshifts, and the throatier the response you receive from throttle inputs. The SQ8 is perfection. The air suspension provides and excellent ride quality, and in dynamic mode, stiffens enough to feel like you are driving a car, instead of a large, heavy SUV. There is nothing SUV about the driving quality of this vehicle. There is barely any roll, and the steering is so nimble, tight, and responsive. I test drove a Range Rover Sport, prior to this purchase, and that vehicle felt top heavy, and disconnected from the road. Not the case with the Audi Q8 or SQ8. If you can spring the $100k+ for the Audi SQ8, it is ABSOLUTELY worth the money for the incredible power, torque, and sound. The 6-cylinder, 55 TFSI Q8 is a fine vehicle after the patch, but lacked the power and presence in the driving experience that I desired. As far as the RSQ8, while there are styling and engine features of the vehicle that are stunning and aggressive to admire, I couldn't justify spending another 40-50K for an additional 90 HP. Audi has managed to produce an absolute masterpiece in the SQ8. It fits wonderfully in between the 55 TFSI and the RSQ8. The SQ8 is a phenomenal competitor to the BMW M models and the mid-level Mercedes AMG class SUV's, and should be highly considered when shopping for this class of vehicle.

We have a limited number of reviews for the 2025 Audi SQ8, so we've included review for other years of the SQ8 since its last redesign.

See all 14 reviews of the Audi SQ8

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2025 Audi SQ8 Features & Specs

Trim:

Premium Plus

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$97,600
Engine Type	Mild hybrid
Combined MPG	17 MPG
Cost to Drive	$319/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	33.7 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

See all features & specs

Compare the Audi SQ8

Compare selected vehiclesSee full list of Midsize performance SUVs rankings

Safety

Key safety features on the SQ8 include:

Blind Spot Monitoring
Lane Departure Warning
Alarm
Tire Pressure Warning
Stability Control
Pre-collision safety system
Post-collision safety system

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating	Rating
Overall	Not Rated
Driver	Not Rated
Passenger	Not Rated
Side Crash Rating	Rating
Overall	Not Rated
Side Barrier Rating	Rating
Overall	Not Rated
Driver	Not Rated
Passenger	Not Rated
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings	Rating
Front Seat	Not Rated
Back Seat	Not Rated
Rollover	Rating
Rollover	4 / 5
Dynamic Test Result	No Tip
Risk Of Rollover	15.8%

FAQ

Is the Audi SQ8 a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2025 SQ8 both on the road and at the track, giving it a 8.1 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2025 SQ8 gets an average rating of 5 stars out of 5 (based on 14 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the SQ8 has 33.7 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Audi SQ8. Learn more

What's new in the 2025 Audi SQ8?

According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2025 Audi SQ8:

Traffic sign recognition and LED interior lighting now standard
Prestige trim adds standard front seat massage and memory functions
New Carbon and Audi Sport Express Red stitching option packages
Part of the first SQ8 generation introduced for 2020

Learn more

Is the Audi SQ8 reliable?

To determine whether the Audi SQ8 is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the SQ8. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the SQ8's 5-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2025 Audi SQ8 a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2025 Audi SQ8 is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2025 SQ8 and gave it a 8.1 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2025 SQ8 gets an average rating of 5 stars out of 5 (based on 14 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2025 SQ8 is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2025 Audi SQ8?

The least-expensive 2025 Audi SQ8 is the 2025 Audi SQ8 Premium Plus 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $97,600.

Other versions include:

Premium Plus 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) which starts at $97,600
Prestige 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) which starts at $104,900

Learn more

What are the different models of Audi SQ8?

If you're interested in the Audi SQ8, the next question is, which SQ8 model is right for you? SQ8 variants include Premium Plus 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A), and Prestige 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A). For a full list of SQ8 models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more

2025 Audi SQ8

Pricing

2025 Audi SQ8 Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

Cost to Drive

Edmunds spotlight: The price for style

Competitors to consider

Edmunds Expert Rating

Our Verdict

Performance

Comfort

Interior

Save as much as $3,578 with Edmunds

Edmunds suggests you pay

Technology

Storage

Fuel Economy

Value

Wildcard

Which SQ8 does Edmunds recommend?

Audi SQ8 Owner Reviews

Most Helpful Owner Review

Switched from Audi Q8 55 TFSI to Audi SQ8.

Helpful shopping links

2025 Audi SQ8 Features & Specs

Compare the Audi SQ8

Check a dealer's price

Safety

Key safety features on the SQ8 include:

NHTSA Overall Rating

FAQ

Is the Audi SQ8 a good car?

What's new in the 2025 Audi SQ8?

Is the Audi SQ8 reliable?

Is the 2025 Audi SQ8 a good car?

How much should I pay for a 2025 Audi SQ8?

What are the different models of Audi SQ8?

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