The two-row 2020 Audi Q8, a downsized version of the boxier Q7 three-row SUV, has a sleek design and a ride to match. All-wheel drive, an eight-speed automatic transmission, a turbocharged V-6 engine producing 335 horsepower, and a solid underbelly power both vehicles, but the Q8 starts much more expensive.
The Q8’s acceleration and handling are a blend of sweet and spicy, and this high-end SUV doesn’t hesitate to burn through gasoline. Similar to other SUVs with a dynamic design, like the Mercedes-Benz GLE-class Coupe or BMW X6, the Q8 prioritizes comfort with its luxurious cabin and cutting-edge steering.
Where This Vehicle Ranks
Audi improves the high-end Audi Q8 significantly for 2024 with new features and styling. Redesigned front and back fascias, new optional matrix-beam LED headlights, new wheels, colors, and seat stitching are all part of the Q8 makeover.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Depending on the specifications and options, the 2020 Audi Q8 pricing ranges from $74,895 to $82,995.
We would go for the Audi Q8 Premium trim level and add a few extras to it.
A fully digital gauge cluster, integrated navigation, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a power-operated tailgate are just a few of its exceptional standard features. Even though 21-inch rims are required, we would still choose the Black Optic package because of its more aggressive look.
We would also include the Convenience package (which includes wireless charging, cross-traffic alerts in the back, blind-spot monitoring, and more) and the Towing package. With the latter, the Q8’s maximum towing capacity of 7700 pounds is unlocked.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
A 3.0-liter V-6 turbocharged engine producing 335 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque powers the Audi Q8. It is matched with Quattro all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. We were able to experience seamless and silent stop-start operation with the help of a 48-volt hybrid-assist system.
The Audi seemed cautious around town unless we pressed the gas pedal hard, even though it had plenty of passing power on the freeway. The engine and the transmission worked together best in Dynamic mode, which elicited quicker responses, but otherwise, the transmission exhibited obedient behavior. All we want is for the exhaust and engine to make more audacious noises.
Though it maneuvers around curves with obedience and makes quick direction changes, it lacks the same level of engagement as Audi sedans like the svelte A7.
The Q8’s linear input and little effort steering were uninteresting on winding roads yet soothing on lengthy drives. Our test car had 22-inch wheels instead of the normal 21-inch ones, and the air suspension option was installed. Even on uneven surfaces, these massive rollers remained quite silent.
Our Q8 could handle rough terrain and was maneuverable in confined spaces because to its four-wheel steering and adjustable ride height (which came with the Adaptive Chassis option). Although its brake pedal was simple to adjust at highway speeds, it had erratic reactions in traffic. Nevertheless, in our emergency braking test, it managed to tow the heavy crossover from 70 mph to zero in a competitive 170 feet.
Towing and Payload Capacity
The 2020 Audi Q8 can tow up to 7700 pounds when equipped with a Towing package.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Although the EPA hasn’t released figures for the updated Q8, the model from last year had poor estimates that were lower than those of other competitors with all-wheel drive. According to government estimations, the 2023 Q8 will get 18 city and 23 highway mpg.
A BMW X6 with comparable equipment got 29 mpg. Go to the EPA website to learn more about the Q8’s fuel efficiency.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Inside the 2020 Audi Q8, Audi has created a classy and durable atmosphere in typical form. The panels are precisely aligned, and the materials are high-quality.
The best model is the only one with massaging front seats, better leather upholstery, and quieter dual-pane glass. All of that was included in our test car, along with a head-up display and adjustable ambient interior lighting.
The Q8 boasts an amazing appearance in addition to ample passenger room. With the split rear bench folded almost flat, that number rose to 23 (two fewer than in the Q7).
The air suspension option, which can lower the rear end to assist with carrying luggage in and out, was installed on our test car. The Q8 has a little amount of cubby storage within. We had limited space for storing little goods because to its short door pockets and shallow center-console bin.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Featuring two bright touchscreens built into the center console and dashboard, every Q8 has an advanced infotainment system. As an alternative to previous Audi models’ user-friendly rotary controllers, the displays provide haptic feedback in response to touch inputs.
Its logical menus and huge icons took some getting used to, but diversions were inevitable. Fortunately, alternative operation is available through responsive voice commands and convenient steering-wheel controls. A Wi-Fi hotspot, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay are included as standard features. Two distinct Bang & Olufsen audio systems and wireless charging are optional.
The conventional digital gauge cluster, known as Virtual Cockpit, is our favorite because to its excellent navigation and adjustable settings.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
While various driver assistance features are available on the base model, higher trim levels are the only ones that get access to more sophisticated features like adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology and night vision with pedestrian detection.
The optional 360-degree video system in our test car made it easier for us to maneuver in tight spaces and prevent scuffs on the enormous rims.
Visit the websites of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for additional details regarding the Q8’s crash test results. Important safety characteristics consist of:
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Audi offers the same powertrain and limited warranty as Mercedes-Benz and BMW.