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Having been in the market for around five years, it's a logical step for Audi's Ingolstadt headquarters to refresh their top-of-the-line SUV. Both the standard Q8 and the sportier SQ8 variants are being unveiled today, while the updated RS Q8 will make its appearance later. Though initially launched in 2018, this stylish SUV remains modern both inside and out as of 2023. Yet, Audi felt it necessary to make some refinements to compete with the 2024 BMW X6.
Starting with the front end, the iconic Singleframe grille now showcases octagonal elements for the Q8 as well as the SQ8. Interestingly, Audi says the redesign of the coupe-SUV's sizable front grille is not just to differentiate it from their A-series but also to signify its elite status in the lineup. The midway update also brings a robust set of air intakes, even for the standard model.
A major transformation occurs in the lighting department when compared to the model prior to the update. The 2024 Audi Q8 now comes with high-intensity LED headlights, which can be optionally switched to a matrix LED system. Furthermore, HD Matrix LED headlights with laser high beam can be added. This feature kicks in automatically at 70 km/h (43.5 mph). The new state-of-the-art headlights offer four selectable light signatures via the infotainment system.
2024 Audi Q8
Moving to the rear, Audi incorporates OLED technology into the taillights, aligning it with features found in the A8 sedan and the smaller Q5 SUV. These taillights not only provide dynamic turn signals and standard entry and exit lighting but also include a safety function. When a following vehicle approaches within 2 meters (6.6 feet) of a stationary Q8, all OLED elements are turned on to enhance visibility.
The update introduces three new metallic paint options (Chili Red, Ascari Blue, Sakhir Gold), along with five wheel designs ranging from 21 to 23 inches in size. On the inside, the cabin now offers a choice among nine decorative inlays and several new upholstery materials. Depending on the model, interior finishes such as fine-grain ash, carbon twill, and aluminum linear silver grey are also available.
In the European market, the 2024 Q8 will be sold as a 55 TFSI, equipped with a 3.0-liter petrol engine based on the Otto cycle. This engine generates 340 hp (250 kW) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque, propelling the SUV to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.6 seconds, with a top speed capped at 250 km/h (155 mph).
A 3.0-liter, six-cylinder diesel engine is also available as the 45 TDI variant with 231 hp (170 kW) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft), capable of reaching 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.1 seconds and a top speed of 226 km/h (140 mph). The more powerful 50 TDI model comes with 286 hp (210 kW) and 600 Nm (441 lb-ft), achieving 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.1 seconds and maxing out at 241 km/h (150 mph).
As for the SQ8, it features a larger 4.0-liter V8 petrol engine, churning out 507 hp (373 kW) and 770 Nm (568 lb-ft). This enables a 0-100 km/h (62 mph) time of just 4.1 seconds and a top speed limited to 250 km/h (155 mph). This potent engine can also deactivate four cylinders within milliseconds to improve fuel efficiency when less power is required.
2024 Audi SQ8
The SQ8 comes standard with 21-inch wheels and 285/45 tires, but 22- and 23-inch options are available, including a specialized 23-inch set featuring 285/35 tires. Brake power is delivered by 400-mm front and 350-mm rear discs, with the option for S-branded front brake calipers in either black or red. Like its standard Q8 counterpart, the SQ8 is equipped with Quattro all-wheel drive and an eight-speed Tiptronic transmission, with the latter providing quicker gear changes in the SQ8 variant.
The 2024 Audi Q8 and SQ8 models will be open for orders later this month. German pricing starts at €86,700 for the 45 TDI, followed by €89,700 for the 50 TDI, €89,900 for the 55 TFSI, and €119,500 for the SQ8.
Source: Audi
