A Glimpse into the Future: 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron Review

On the other hand, with the name Audi Q8 e-tron, the manufacturer wants to assert that this is the top model in the brand’s pure electric SUV and crossover product line. Accordingly, the planned launch of the Audi Q8 e-tron will be in February this year. This model will have a traditional SUV design and a hybrid coupe SUV for the global market.

Overview 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron

If you’re currently driving an Audi Q7 or Q8 SUV but are considering going electric next time around, the 2024 Q8 e-tron (previously known simply as the e-tron) will provide you with an easy transition. Its design and overall vibe are similar to the rest of the luxury automaker’s lineup, so the only element to adjust to is the powertrain. Two electric motors provide all-wheel drive and up to 402 horsepower.

Acceleration is strong, but not as rapid as in rivals like the BMW iX, Jaguar I-Pace, or Tesla Model X. If you’re looking for a quicker version of the Q8 e-tron, there’s an SQ8 e-tron (reviewed separately) that offers 496 horsepower. The Q8 e-tron’s hushed cabin is filled with high-tech features, which is something Audi loyalists have come to expect. There are two body styles to choose from—the standard Q8 e-tron and the sportier, fastback Q8 e-tron Sportback—but neither of them shouts about their eco-friendliness.

In fact, they couldn’t look more conventional. Whichever body style you choose, the Q8 e-tron comes with a battery pack that provides a usable real-world driving range that promises to be competitive with other luxury EV SUVs. Plus, it can be quickly charged at a public charging station if you’re traveling long distances.

For 2024, the e-tron and e-tron Sportback SUVs have been renamed as the Q8 e-tron and Q8 e-tron Sportback, presumably to avoid confusion with other members of Audi’s expanding EV lineup, all of which bear some form of the e-tron name. To commemorate this change, Audi has given the SUVs a stylish refresh that includes a redesigned grille, updated lighting elements, and fresh wheel designs. Both models now feature a larger 106.0-kWh battery pack, providing the Q8 e-tron models with enhanced range and better competition against rivals. While a higher-performance S e-tron model was available last year, it has now been introduced as the separate SQ8 e-tron, which we review separately.

Design and Exterior of the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron

Overall, the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron is not much different from its predecessor. However, some exterior details have been improved to be more trendy and consistent with the current design philosophy of the Audi brand.

Car front

The hexagonal grille is large, but the interior pattern has changed, there are no longer vertical slats. Instead, there are flat circles of large and small sizes in irregular order along with the company’s new 4-circle logo. Notably, this detail can open/close automatically to optimize airflow.

The lighting system is sharp with horizontal and backward LED daytime positioning lights on both sides of the car, along with 4 compact horizontal stripes inside the light cluster. The car uses modern LED matrix headlights with long-range lighting control feature, increasing lighting capabilities for Audi’s top luxury electric SUV.

Below the light cluster, there is a familiar shaped air vent but has been enlarged in size, along with a front bumper with an integrated trapezoidal central air vent painted in impressive glossy black.

Vehicle body

The body of the Audi car has beautiful, sleek design lines and door handles of the same color creating a seamless appearance. Meanwhile, the rearview mirror stands out as a highlight when painted glossy black, integrated with electric folding ability, automatic anti-glare mirror drying, and classy LED turn signals.

Audi Q8 e-tron 2023 with sports body. In this upgrade, at the B-pillar position, the word Audi is engraved in a small piece placed close to the lower edge of the window. Below the legs is equipped with a set of 20-inch wheels with a more unique shape with 5 spokes, creating 4 horizontal stripes similar to the daytime lights design at the front of the car. There are also outstanding and sporty red brake shackles. 
Audi Q8 e-tron 2024 with sports body.

In this upgrade, at the B-pillar position, the word Audi is engraved in a small piece placed close to the lower edge of the window. Below the legs is equipped with a set of 20-inch wheels with a more unique shape with 5 spokes, creating 4 horizontal stripes similar to the daytime lights design at the front of the car. There are also outstanding and sporty red brake shackles.

Rear

The taillights use LED bulbs with an arrow shape with 4 horizontal stripes on the tail, consistent with the design throughout from the beginning of the Audi Q8 e-tron 2024.

The diffuser has also been refreshed. While the improved front/rear axle spoilers and opening and closing radiator system help reduce the air resistance coefficient of the new Audi Q8 e-tron to 0.27 for the SUV version and 0.24 for the Sportback version.

Interior Comfort of the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron

Going inside the car, the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron brings innovation using mostly recycled materials. Some remaining details or equipment in the cabin are similar to the predecessor.

Cockpit

The cabin stands out with beautiful and luxurious red stitching. Every detail is arranged neatly and minimally towards user comfort.

The 3-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel has a sturdy chrome bottom and integrated function control buttons on both sides to help the driver easily operate. Behind the steering wheel is a digital dashboard with a 12.3-inch screen displaying operating parameters.

Meanwhile, the center of the dashboard is a 10.1-inch touch screen placed low with a small screen placed right below, measuring 8.6 inches, with the function of adjusting in-car features instead of physical knobs/turns. .

Above the dashboard area is the area of the air conditioning vent that takes up more than half of the length, the remaining is the location where the e-tron name is engraved to identify the vehicle model. In the center console area, the gear lever cluster has the form of a handle and can be flicked with your fingers instead of pulling the entire shift lever cluster. There is also a convenient storage compartment.

Seat

The entire seating system is covered in luxurious leather with the front seats having a sporty shape, hugging the occupants. At the same time, all seating positions can be electrically adjusted and support a smooth backrest, creating comfort for passengers and users.

The driver’s seat has a convenient position memory feature, while the rear seats can be fully folded to help increase luggage compartment capacity.

See more: 2024 Audi A3 Review: A Closer Look at Performance, Design, and Technology

Performance of the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron

Under the hood, the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron packs a powerful electric drivetrain that delivers exhilarating performance. Its dual electric motors generate instant torque, propelling the vehicle from 0 to 60 mph in just under 5 seconds. The Q8 e-tron’s advanced battery technology provides an impressive range of up to 300 miles on a single charge, making it suitable for both daily commutes and long-distance journeys. Thanks to Audi’s renowned Quattro all-wheel-drive system, the Q8 e-tron offers exceptional traction and stability in various driving conditions.

Beneath the Q8 e-tron’s heavily creased bodywork are two electric motors, one located at the front axle and the other at the rear. Together, they provide electronic all-wheel drive, with the rear motor doing most of the work. In regular driving situations, they produce a combined 355 horsepower and 414 pound-feet of torque. However, putting the shifter into Sport mode briefly unlocks 402 horsepower and 490 pound-feet of torque.

Our driving impressions revealed that the Q8 e-tron was quick and composed. Its rapid acceleration is typical of electric vehicles, and the smooth, quiet ride confirmed its luxury credentials. At our test track, we recorded a 5.2-second time to reach 60 mph in the Sportback model.

Its braking system expertly blended traditional friction brakes with the obligatory regenerative braking system. However, we were disappointed that the regenerative braking wasn’t aggressive enough to enable one-pedal driving. Nevertheless, the Q8 e-tron exhibits traditional SUV characteristics with the ability to tow up to 4000 pounds.

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Technology of the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron

Audi has always been at the forefront of automotive technology, and the 2024 Q8 e-tron is no exception. The vehicle is equipped with an array of advanced features that enhance convenience, safety, and entertainment. The intuitive touchscreen display serves as the command center for various functions, including navigation, climate control, and multimedia playback. Furthermore, the Q8 e-tron offers seamless smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing drivers to stay connected and access their favorite apps on the go.

Every Q8 e-tron is equipped with an infotainment system that utilizes dual touchscreens. The top screen measures 10.1 inches, while the lower screen measures 8.6 inches. The upper screen allows access to standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto apps, as well as the optional Bang & Olufsen audio system.

The lower screen is primarily used for controlling the climate settings. In addition to multiple power points, the system includes a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot, and a wireless smartphone charger is available as an option.

Range, Charging of the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron

One of the key advantages of electric vehicles is their reduced environmental impact, and the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron takes sustainability to a new level. The vehicle utilizes regenerative braking technology, which converts kinetic energy into electrical energy while decelerating, thereby extending the range.

Additionally, Audi is committed to expanding its charging infrastructure, ensuring that Q8 e-tron owners have convenient access to charging stations across the country. With fast-charging capabilities, the Q8 e-tron can quickly recharge its battery, providing added convenience to its users.

According to the EPA, the Q8 e-tron’s 106.0-kWh battery pack should provide a range of up to 285 miles per charge. The Sportback model, on the other hand, is rated at up to 300 miles per charge, but only if you opt for the Ultra package, which includes more aerodynamic 19-inch wheels and a specially tuned suspension for efficiency.

If the estimated range of 300 miles is accurate, it would position the Q8 e-tron Sportback competitively against rivals like the I-Pace and Model X. Additionally, every e-tron comes with a 170-kW fast charger, enabling it to recharge 80 percent of its battery in approximately 30 minutes.

Safety Features of the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron

Safety is always a paramount concern in any vehicle, and Audi has equipped the 2024 Q8 e-tron with an impressive array of safety features. The vehicle incorporates advanced driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring to enhance driver confidence and minimize the risk of accidents. Furthermore, the Q8 e-tron features a comprehensive suite of airbags, a rigid body structure, and advanced braking systems to provide maximum protection for occupants in case of a collision.

Audi offers a range of standard driver-assistance technologies on both Q8 e-tron body styles, and they can be equipped with adaptive cruise control and self-parking assist as well. For detailed information about the crash-test results of the Q8 e-tron SUV and Q8 e-tron Sportback, please visit the websites of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Key safety features include:

• Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
• Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
• Standard lane-departure warning

Fuel Efficiency of the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron

The EPA estimates that the Q8 e-tron will achieve 80 MPGe in the city and 83 MPGe on the highway, while the slightly more aerodynamic Sportback model is rated for 84 MPGe in the city and 89 MPGe on the highway. We plan to test the Q8 e-tron on our 75-mph highway fuel-economy route as part of our comprehensive testing process and will update this story with the results. For further information regarding the e-tron’s fuel economy, please visit the EPA’s website.

Pricing and Availability of the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron

As for pricing and availability, the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron is expected to be competitively priced within its segment. Audi aims to make electric mobility accessible to a wider audience without compromising on performance or luxury. The vehicle is set to hit showrooms in select markets by [specific date], with availability expanding gradually in subsequent months.

While we’ll let you decide which Q8 body style suits you best, we would recommend sticking with the entry-level Premium trims since they offer a comprehensive range of standard features at a reasonable price—for a luxury electric SUV. The Premium trim is not basic, as it includes 20-inch wheels, adaptive cruise control, an air suspension system, heated front seats with power adjustments, LED headlamps, a panoramic sunroof, four-zone automatic climate control, a heated steering wheel, and leather upholstery.

Specifications of the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron

Feelings about 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron

The 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron represents a significant milestone in Audi’s journey towards sustainable mobility. With its striking design, impressive performance, advanced technology, and commitment to sustainability, this all-electric SUV sets a new benchmark for the future of automotive excellence. Whether you’re an electric vehicle enthusiast or simply looking for a luxurious SUV with a reduced environmental footprint, the Q8 e-tron is poised to deliver an exceptional driving experience that combines power, elegance, and sustainability. Stay tuned for more updates on this groundbreaking vehicle as it hits the roads and shapes the future of electric mobility!

Reference: https://www.audiusa.com/

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