2021 Audi SQ8
- 2021
- 2020
2021 Audi SQ8 Review
- 500-hp V8 moves the SQ8 with authority
- Nimble handling for a luxury SUV
- Surprisingly comfortable given its performance bent
- Stylish, distinctive exterior
- Infotainment system can be distracting to use
- Driver's seat has few adjustments
- Limited interior storage
- No significant changes for 2021
- Part of the first SQ8 generation introduced for 2020
The stylish Audi SQ8 SUV has a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine with 500 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque. All that power might once have been enough for the SQ8 to be Audi's halo performance SUV, but the SQ8 actually plays understudy to the mighty RS Q8 above it. Not that many owners are likely to be left wanting with the SQ8; its V8 engine and the excellent traction of its sophisticated all-wheel-drive system help propel it from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.0 seconds in Edmunds' testing.
So there's plenty of performance, and the SQ8 has a suspension designed to exploit it. The result is that the big SQ8 is surprisingly agile for such a heavy and indulgently luxurious vehicle. Its looks are standout too, with Audi mixing SUV stance and assertiveness with a rakish, couple-like styling to fantastic effect. Inside, the beautifully finished interior and plentiful standard equipment add to the SQ8's desirability over its contemporaries.
Among that competition it can count SUVs such as the BMW X6 M50i, Porsche Cayenne GTS Coupe and Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 53 Coupe. The SQ8 betters some rivals, notably in relation to styling, power and interior specification, but it falls a little short on ease of use. Read our Expert Rating below for full details on Audi's SQ8.
Our verdict | |
The SQ8 is a sporty spin on Audi's Q8 midsize SUV. Audi has anointed it with a 500-horsepower V8 and too many performance upgrades to count. It's considerably more dynamic than the standard Q8 and nearly as comfortable. Well-executed tech offerings and a top-notch cabin design round out this pricey SUV's long list of strengths. | |
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 pressing the accelerator and the transmission downshifting, and the auto stop-start system turns off the engine too early, resulting in lurchy stops. | |
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 compliant 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 throaty exhaust of the V8 under hard acceleration. | |
How’s the interior? | |
Audi's bold decision to go full touchscreen on its latest infotainment interface is controversial. Some of our experts 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. | |
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. | |
How’s the storage? | |
The SQ8's design preserves most of the cargo space that you'd normally 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. The SQ8's trailer maneuver assist feature is also neat. You can use it to easily guide your trailer while reversing by swiping left or right on the lower infotainment display. | |
How’s the fuel economy? | |
EPA-estimated fuel economy for the SQ8 stands at 17 mpg combined (15 city/21 highway). 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 115-mile test route, proving these estimates are achievable in the real world. | |
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. The SQ8 starts a hair under $90,000 (with destination), and our test vehicle with the Driver Assistance package and visual upgrades rang in just under $95,000. It's a bargain compared to a similarly configured Porsche Cayenne GTS (which features the same engine), though it costs a bit more than the more powerful BMW X5 M50i. 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 | |
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 tester'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?
Audi SQ8 models
The 2021 Audi SQ8 comes in two trim levels. The Premium Plus includes a number of sumptuous features that cement its luxury SUV status. The Prestige trim takes things even further with advanced creature comforts. Both trims use the same turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine (500 horsepower, 568 lb-ft of torque) with an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. Highlight features include:
2021 Audi SQ8 pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $89,100
- MPG & Fuel
- 15 City / 21 Hwy / 17 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 22.5 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 5 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: all wheel drive
- Transmission: 8-speed shiftable automatic
- Engine
- V8 cylinder
- Horsepower: 500 hp @ N/A rpm
- Torque: 568 lb-ft @ N/A rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 4 yr./ 50000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 196.6 in. / Height: 67.2 in.
- Overall Width with Mirrors: 86.2 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 78.5 in.
- Curb Weight: 5324 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 30.5 cu.ft.
Safety
Our experts’ favorite SQ8 safety features:
- Audi Pre Sense City
- Uses sensors at the front of the car to warn you about an imminent front collision and can automatically apply the brakes.
- Audi Pre Sense Rear
- Reacts to an imminent rear-end collision by tensioning seat belts, closing windows and adjusting the seats for optimal protection.
- Audi Side Assist with Rear Cross-Traffic Assist and Vehicle Exit Warning
- Warns you if a vehicle is lurking in your blind spot and alerts passengers about to exit the car to approaching vehicles.
Audi SQ8 vs. the competition
2021 Audi SQ8
2021 Porsche Cayenne
Audi SQ8 vs. Porsche Cayenne
There are familial links between the Audi SQ8 and its Porsche Cayenne GTS Coupe rival, with both cars sharing a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine. In the Audi that V8 punches out 500 horsepower to the Porsche's 453 horsepower. That ensures the SQ8 is quicker, in a straight line at least, but the Cayenne's sharper handling makes up for that power deficit in the bends. The Porsche is more expensive, however, and options add up quickly, making the SQ8 look like a bit of a bargain in comparison.
Audi SQ8 vs. BMW X6
The BMW X6 invented the coupe-like SUV category that Audi now competes in with the SQ8. The X6 in M50i guise underlines BMW's expertise in making a big SUV handle like a sports car. It sounds magnificent and is also faster, but the X6 M50i is unquestionably more bold in its looks than the slightly more restrained Audi. It also lacks the Audi's cohesive, classier interior. The X6 M50i is more fun to drive, but the SQ8 will be nicer to live with.
Audi SQ8 vs. Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
Like the Audi SQ8, the Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 53 is topped by another, more powerful model (the GLE 63). The GLE 53's six-cylinder engine is only able to muster 429 horsepower to the Audi V8's 500 horsepower. The Mercedes-Benz achieves marginally better fuel consumption as a result, and isn't that much slower in the real world, but the GLE feels a size category down from the SQ8.
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FAQ
Is the Audi SQ8 a good car?
What's new in the 2021 Audi SQ8?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Audi SQ8:
- No significant changes for 2021
- Part of the first SQ8 generation introduced for 2020
Is the Audi SQ8 reliable?
Is the 2021 Audi SQ8 a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2021 Audi SQ8?
The least-expensive 2021 Audi SQ8 is the 2021 Audi SQ8 Premium Plus 4dr SUV AWD w/TFSI (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $89,100.
Other versions include:
- Prestige 4dr SUV AWD w/TFSI (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A) which starts at $95,000
- Premium Plus 4dr SUV AWD w/TFSI (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric hybrid 8A) which starts at $89,100