Audi Q8 is the flagship two-row SUV with coupe-like styling from Audi, a leading luxury automotive company with a strong presence in the Middle East. Much like Audi Q7, the Q8 is powered by the same 335-HP V6 turbocharged engine, eight-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive. The SUV gets a unique combination of chassis and acceleration, delivering incredible performance on highway and city drives.

With a plush interior, high-end technology features, and sportier exterior design, it competes with the likes of BMWX6 and Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Coupe. The carmaker has also offered the high-spec SQ8 with 500 HP and RS Q8 with 591 HP powertrain, making them ideal for high-performance car enthusiasts.

Audi Q8 2023 Review: Brief Overview

Key Specifications

• 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine
• Automatic transmission
• Remote park assist plus
• Electric sunroof
• Multi-infotainment display
• Adaptive headlights
• Anti-lock brake system
• Advanced airbag system
• Crash auto door unlock

Pros

• Smooth driving
• Better practicality
• High-end interior
• Relaxing seats

Cons

• Incredibly expensive
• Limited engine options
• The touchscreen may distract
• Better options from rivals

Expert Rating: 4.5/5

Audi Q8 Price in UAE: Starts from AED 391,650

Top Rivals: Competes with BMW X6, Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, Genesis GV80, and Porsche Cayenne Coupe.

Audi Q8 2023 Detailed Review: Is It a Worthy Flagship Car?

Powertrain

Powering the Audi Q8 is a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine that churns out 335 HP of power output and 369 pound-feet of torque. The engine comes mated with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive system. This Audi SUV has a 48V hybrid assist system that enables the stop-start functions, which is smooth and noise-free to use during driving. The vehicle easily achieves its top speed on highways and delivers seamless performance. In dynamic mode, the performance further gets extended, which Induces intense reactions. However, running SUVs on curvy and busy city roads can be complicated or less engaging than the Audi Q7, the three-row SUV from the company. The steering feels light and easy to use, which ensures a relaxing experience on long trips. It comes with 21-inch alloy wheels as standard, but the buyers also have the option to select 22-inch alloy wheels.

Additionally, the Q8 easily achieves 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds and 0-100 mph in 14.3 seconds. The coupe-like SUV has a top speed of 130 mph, braking 70-0 mph in around 170 ft. This German car manufacturer has also offered more powerful variants, including SQ8 and RS Q8. The Audi SQ8 is equipped with a 4.0-liter V8 engine that comes mated with the same eight-speed automatic transmission to make up 500 HP of power output and 568 lb-ft of torque. The RSQ8 is equipped with a more powerful 4.0-liter V8 to run out 591 HP.

Exterior

The 2024 Q8 comes with a refreshed styling and look. Its updated front profile features new optional matrix-beam LED headlights, new seats, color options, and wheels. Audi has kept a lower and wider profile for Q8 than Audi Q7. The luxury SUV has several details on the exterior to make it look distinct and attractive. There is a coupe-like sloping roofline, but it doesn’t let the passengers compromise with headroom. Inside the cabin is enough headroom, legroom, and shoulder space so passengers can easily accommodate and enjoy their short or long trips.

Some of the noticeable exterior features that the new Audi Q8 carries include auto headlamps, an acoustic front windshield, dual exhaust tip, rear fog lamps, and head washers. The carmaker has also offered power windows for both front and rear, along with a puddle lamp, roof spoiler, and rakish “fastback” tailgate.

Interior

The Audi Q8's interior exemplifies the precisely designed, sophisticated, refreshed, and luxurious environment inside the cabin. Premium materials are used, and necessary controls are fitted properly on the driver dashboard. Though the base variant misses the top-spec features like four-zone climate control and a leather dashboard with contrast stitching, there are still several premium features, including heated front seats and panoramic sunroof. The Audi has massaging front seats in top-spec trim, ensuring a relaxed and comfortable drive.

The cabin area includes ambient lighting, a head-up display, and a dual touch screen display - a 10.1-inch for entertainment and in-car connectivity and 8.6-inch, the lower one, for climate control and other drive assist features. The display boasts clear, crisp, and vibrant, easily visible graphics. Around 39 drive assist features are available in three packages: Parking, City, and Tour. The Q8 packs diamond-stitched seating, illuminated sill plates, and a Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system with a 17-speaker.

Safety

For safety, the German carmaker has offered parking sensors - front and rear sides, lane departure warning system, Audi side assist, pedestrian prevention, forward collision mitigation, and Audi pre-sense safety system.

Moreover, Audi Q8 has a five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP, with a safety score of 93% for adults, 87% for children, and 71% for pedestrians. The luxury car from Audi has earned a 73% protection score for its safety assistant features, making it one of the safest SUVs to buy in the UAE.

Conclusion

A luxurious and powerful mid-size 2.1-tone SUV, the Audi Q8 is equipped with high-end technology features and luxurious seating to ensure comfortable and relaxed drives even on long trips. The car has several safety features, available in multiple color options, including Matador Red and Dragon Orange, and 21-inch alloy wheels (22 inches as optional), giving tough competition to the likes of BMW X6 and Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe.

With a stylish and spacious interior and a modern exterior design, the Q8 is also a very expensive SUV. If you are looking for a high-performance and practical SUV with no budget constraints, the Audi Q8 is a great choice. However, if you are on a budget, you can find multiple luxury SUVs offering similar features at lower prices.