The e-tron was one of the very first completely electric luxury sedans to be launched in the US market. For 2024, Audi has given it a new nickname, the Q8 e-tron, with the addition of many updates for the 2024 model year. However, the old performance version, the e-tron A, is now known as SQ8 e-tron as a part of an update.
It is available on the market as the coupe-style Sportback version as well as the regular SUV. The new SQ8 e-tron has sufficient updates to help it beat its competitors. In this article, we are going to discuss the Audi SQ8 e-tron review. Plus, we will discuss in detail this Audi e-tron performance and features.
Audi SQ8 E-Tron Review
This giant, robust, luxury electric car has a range of 300 miles and sub-five-second acceleration times. The new Audi SQ8 e-tron review shows that it has friskier handling, a bigger battery, and better aerodynamics. This Audi e-tron packages two motors together at the rear wheels and one engine for the front wheels.
However, there is a mechanical connection between the rear wheels. Overall, the system makes 396 hp and 718 lb-ft of torque, which is 94hp and 228 lb-ft more than the old Q8 e-tron, respectively. Below, we will discuss more about the performance and other features of one of the exceptional Audi electric vehicles 2024, the Audi SQ8 e-tron.
Features of Audi E-Tron SQ8
You have read the Audi SQ8 e-tron review; now, let’s move on to its features. This new Audi model has top specifications with an enticing sports-pack body and an amazing exterior. There are many other amazing features to discuss about this new Audi electric sedan; read on to know them.
1- Motor, Power, and Performance
The new SQ8 e-tron indeed shares its platform with the Q8 e-tron. However, it sports a more robust three-motor electric powertrain, which makes 496hp. The estimation is it will strike 60 mph in around 4.5 seconds. The prime reason for this is that instead of one electric motor, there are two on the rear axle. Plus, the SQ8 e-tron can imitate a torque-vectoring differential. It does it by transmitting more energy to the exterior rear wheels as required to boost cornering. The SQ8’s handling in normal driving is reasonably confident and athletic.
However, please do not expect the same crispness you will see on other S-branded Audi models. The ride in SQ8 is less smooth and comfortable than that of the Q8 e-trons, and you will always remember that you chose a sporty one. Also, you will pay off on a twisty road where this QS8 ride will be loaded with entertainment. This feature is one of the most crucial ones in the Audi SQ8 e-Tron review
2- Range, Charging, and Battery Life
All SQ8 e-tron prototypes have 106.kWh battery packs that you can charge up using a 170lW DC fast-charging connection. That is more than enough for an EA-estimated driving range of around 253 miles per charge. However, with the bigger 22-inch wheels, the estimation of range decreases to only 218 miles. It is expected that Audi will make more amazing progress in future Audi EV models. Know different EV charging types and how they are compatible with different EVs.
3- Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Similar to Audi e-tron GT, the first impression that you get is an amazing digital experience. The cabin of the SW8 e-tron is calm while cruising and has spacious seats in both rows. The dashboard of this vehicle is filled with multiple high-resolution screens. Moreover, there needs to be more upscale features.
These features include a Panasonic sunroof, leather upholstery, and four-zone automatic climate control. Also, it has a power-operated rear liftgate, heated rear and front deadlock, and a power-adjustable steering column.
Audi is also proud of utilizing recycled materials for damping, insulation, and carpeting. Recycled PET bottles, used textiles, and Dinamics made from 45% polyester fibres are all utilized. The SQ8 is still a premium SUV, however, so the seats in the SQ8 can also be upholstered in synthetic leather.
Speaking about cargo space, there is enough space for cargo in the Audi e-tron SQ8 for everyday requirements. Though, the e-tron can not be called class-leading in this regard. In front of the car, there is a small capacity of 2.2 cubic feet, and there are around 20 cubes behind the second row. Curiously, this amount is way less than the 28 cubes in the e-tron S.
4- Infotainment and Connectivity
Following the EV market trends USA, Audi has made amazing updates to its new cars. As we said earlier, the dashboard of the SQ8 e-tron has a huge 10.1 touchscreen display with high resolution. It also has an 8.6/an8.6-inch display that connects the dashboard to the centre console. The primary use of a lower display is the SUV’s secondary controls, which include the drive modes and the climate settings.
Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are both standard, as in a wireless smartphone charging pad and in-dash navigation. Also, it includes a Bang & Olufsen stereo system and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Audi e-tron features are liked by their consumers, and as a result, you can see many Audi electric SUVs in the USA.
5- Safety and Driving Assistance
On every SQ8 e-tron prototype, a couple of driving features come standard. It includes lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring, and automated emergency braking. Also, it has adaptive cruise control, along with lane-centering. The key safety features of the new SQ8 e-tron include:
Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
Common adaptive cruise control with a feature of lane-centering
Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assistance
6- Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The powertrain warranty of the Audi SQ8 e-tron and smaller SQ8 e-tron Sportback is the same as the regular Q8 e-tron and smaller Q4 e-tron sedans. There is not much EV maintenance required. The warranty of this vehicle includes the following:
Electric parts are covered for 100000 miles or eight years
The limited warranty covers 50,000 or four years
A powertrain warranty covers 50,000 miles or four years
No complimentary regular maintenance
How Does the Audi SQ8 e-tron Compare to the Regular Audi SQ8 E-Tron?
The Audi SQ8 e-tron is a lot more than just an added letter. The SQ8 has the same updated battery that gives more range for 2024. However, the major difference between the pair is the additional second motor placed at the rear axle. The tri-motor setup of the SW8 e-tron adds an extra 94hp and stonking 229 lb-ft of torque when compared to the Q8 motor layout. The SQ8 e-tron’s tri-motor setup gives it a standard all-wheel drive.
Moreover, the new SQ8 e-tron gets a revamped suspension setup, with a wider suspension yielding rear and front tracks. The 1.4-inch wider track results in extra bodywork to cover the wheels. This Audi-only S(but not RS) prototype has wider fenders than the standard prototype. Furthermore, an air suspension is standard, and the sway bars, control arm bushings, and dampers have all been hardened for the SQ8. If you compare the original e-tron, the SQ8 e-tron and Q8 e-tron get a quicker steering ratio.
Plus, there are also some visual tweaks. The mirror caps, grille, and exterior trim are all silver for the A prototype. Plus, the layout for the rear and front fascias has been tweaked here slightly. Now, let’s compare the inside of both. The inside of the SQ8 e-tron gets carbon trim and more heavily bolstered seats as compared to those in the regular Q8 e-tron. It has more ventilated, relaxed, and massaging seats, which are optional. Different US cities are revolutionizing with EVs to keep up with the electric vehicle market. It helps the new EV models to access charging and other related needs easily.
2024 Audi SQ8 E-Tron vs BMW iX
The war between BMW and Audi is always there from the start. Both of these brands make an effort to control the luxury car market. This is why we have chosen to compare the SQ8 e-tron with its current competitor, the BMW iX, which is a peek into the future of BMW’s electric car lineup. Let’s have a look at the comparison chart.
| Feature | Audi SQ8 e-tron | BMW iX |
| Price | ~$90,000 USD | ~$85,000 USD |
| Range | Up to 220 miles (EPA) | Up to 300 miles (EPA) |
| Performance | 0-60 mph in ~4.3s | 0-60 mph in ~4.6s |
| Battery Capacity | Not disclosed | ~100 kWh |
| Charging | DC fast charging is available | DC fast charging is available |
| Powertrain | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
| Horsepower | ~500 hp | ~500 hp |
| Torque | Not disclosed | ~600 lb-ft |
| Infotainment | Audi MMI system | BMW iDrive system |
| Autonomous Tech | Advanced driver assistance | Advanced driver assistance |
| Warranty | Standard manufacturer warranty | Standard manufacturer warranty |
| Dimensions | Length: ~197 in, Width: ~78 in, Height: ~67 in | Length: ~195 in, Width: ~78 in, Height: ~66 in |
Conclusion
The name change of Audi’s flagship electric sedan is quite confusing, but the vehicle under it is surely worth it. During the year 2022, the e-tron’s range was getting little attention as compared to its new rivals. After noticing this, Audi wasted no time and addressed it. Through Audi EV strategy and plans, it has overcome this issue. Before, Audi cars were only elegant places to sit and drive, but now they are filled with tech. In the past few years, Audi has made amazing progress and is still working to shine in the future. After reading the Audi SQ8 e-tron review, you should understand what a masterpiece Audi E-Tron has released.
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I am Muhammad Waqas and I am dedicated to promoting sustainable vehicles. Observing EV trends, studying the intricacies of the EV industry, and promoting new EV launches fall under my expertise. I have been working in this field for 5 years and making efforts for a sustainable and healthier future.
