Audi Q8 e-tron

Back in 2019, the first-ever Audi e-tron crossover signaled a new start for Audi's electrification mission and it sets the template for Audi's electrified models. Despite its success, the e-tron didn't survive long enough and it was therefore removed from the lineup. Thankfully, it was reborn with a new name, which sounds confusing to some.

2024 Audi Q8 e-tron Sportback

2024 Audi Q8 e-tron

Welcome to the Audi Q8 e-tron and no, this new model has nothing in common with the ICE-powered Audi Q8 coupe utility vehicle because, despite the naming, it's basically a minor change version of the used-to-be-called Audi e-tron electric crossover.

Prices start at 74,400 Euros plus additional costs, a drastic price bump compared to the old e-tron crossover, so with the price hike, what do you get from this so-called improved version of the e-tron crossover, which is available in normal and Sportback models?

Beginning with the styling, the Q8 e-tron looks similar to the old e-tron crossover but with refreshed looks and aerodynamics to make a statement. It's the same goes for the sporty SQ8 e-tron variants.

2024 Audi Q8 e-tron interior

2024 Audi Q8 e-tron interior

The interior feels pretty much the same as the old model but there are signs of added use of recycled materials involved in the making. On the driver's side, you still have familiar features such as the 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit, a 10.1-inch MMI touchscreen with smartphone connectivity and noticeable apps such as Apple Music and (oh no) Amazon Alexa, and an 8.6-inch secondary touchscreen that takes charge of the climate control features. 

Of course, the spacing is just like the old e-tron. It fits up to five people and it's got more room than its main rival, the Mercedes-Benz EQC, and for added fun, Audi teams up with holoride to deliver VR excitement inside. Sit in the back, put on your VR glasses, and enjoy the ride. This is a gimmick even kids might enjoy.

2024 Audi SQ8 e-tron Sportback

2024 Audi SQ8 e-tron

Checking out the electric propulsion system, the Q8 e-tron features a choice of either a 95kWh or a 114kWh battery pack with the latter producing 408PS of power, 664Nm of torque, a 0-100kph time of 5.6 seconds, 200kph of top speed, and 582km of driving range.

The SQ8 e-tron uses the same 114kWh battery pack as the normal one but it has improved performance, delivering 503PS of power, 973Nm of torque, a 0-100kph time of 4.5 seconds, 210kph of top speed, and up to 494km of driving range.

The dynamics were slightly revised compared to the old e-tron courtesy of its improved performance, air suspension, revised air springs, and updated steering ratio. Still, it possesses a mild driving feel but it feels a bit okay to get going from the beginning to the end of the day.

The SQ8 e-tron comes with an electric torque vectoring system that allows drivers to fully enjoy these crossovers to their fullest extent. Easier said than done.

The Q8 e-tron may be more of a facelifted e-tron crossover but it continues the electric crossover's success story even in this unstable world we live in. 

Why call it the Q8 e-tron even though it has nothing in common with the normal Q8 coupe crossover? It's complicated.

Photo: Audi AG