30-01-2025
2024 Audi SQ8 review: Splitting the difference between Q8 and RS Q8
Positioned between the brand's flagship RS Q8 and the more sensible, city-slacking Q8, the SQ8 may as well be the goldilocks of the family, offering just the right amount of performance, style, and practicality one may expect from a sporty luxury SUV.
Underneath the hood resides a twin-turbo V8 churning out 500 horsepower, plenty of power for stop-light shenanigans. However, the two-and-a-half-ton family SUV packs surprising agility, enough to tackle twisty roads and suburb cul-de-sacs the SQ8, Audi's 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 pumps 500 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels via Quattro all-wheel drive. Together with an 8-speed Triptronic transmission, the SQ8 finds a perfect rhythm on twisty roads and daily commutes.
Speaking of straight-line performance, the powertrain translates to impressive performance figures – 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.6 seconds, according to Car & Driver – before it continues its relentless push to a (limited) top speed of 155 mph.
However, being the 'sportier' end of the lineup, the SQ8 gets treated to certain 'S-tuned' goodies. Of course, this means a sophisticated suspension package that utilizes a sport-tuned differential, torque vectoring, and electromechanical active roll stabilization (Audi's namesay for 'anti body roll') to ensure precision in handling.
Luckily, despite the sporty intentions, the '24 SQ8 doesn't shy away from its luxury roots as an adaptive air suspension works tirelessly behind the scenes to soak up road undulations and keep things smooth inside. Meanwhile, the addition of an optional rear-wheel steering package makes the SQ8 just as comfortable threading through tight city streets as it is maneuvering through curvy inside, and the 'wow factor' continues. Here, premium materials reign supreme, followed closely by a squadron of tech.
At the heart of the cabin lie the bucket-like S sport seats wrapped in Valcona leather, the perfect blend of hug and hold. Meanwhile, the optional diamond quilted stitching helps elevate the atmosphere even further.
Luckily, the attention to detail ensues as leather wraps the dash and doors, and exquisite, brushed aluminum trims accentuate the cabin's sleek and elegant design.
But what's an Audi without its signature tech-laden cabin? Thankfully, the SQ8's technological arsenal packs a bunch, such as the MMI Touch Capacitive system flaunting a set of high-res, quite crisp screens with haptic feedback.
While the upper 10.1-inch display handles the big stuff, including sat-nav, multimedia, and vehicle settings, the lower screen takes care of climate control and seat adjustments.
The driver is also treated to Audi's Virtual Cockpit, offering an immersive, highly customizable digital display showcasing full/partial screen maps and essential driving SQ8's outside mimics the blend of athleticism and subtleness found inside, striking a perfect balance between aggressive styling and modern elegance.
A new single-frame grille stands proud in front with its octagonal design and massive air intakes that are as functional as they are intimidating. Also new upfront are the sleek, cyberpunk-ey Matrix LED headlamps with lasers and customizable DRL signatures that put Audi's LED lighting game right at the top.
Laterally speaking, the SQ8 can be seen wearing new shoes, now featuring a range of exciting color options and designs for wheels measuring 21 to 23 inches, all tailored for grip and glamour. Also seen laterally is the SQ8's sleek roofline that gracefully slopes at the back, evoking the elegance of a raised estate saloon.
The rear, yet again, highlights newer aprons and redesigned OLED taillamps with customizable light designs that make your SQ8 stand out in a sea of cookie-cutter crossovers. Meanwhile, a roof-mounted spoiler and quad exhaust tips add a sporty flair touch to an otherwise refined exterior.
Fancy getting your hands on one? Well, at roughly $97,000, the SQ8 can be yours to command. Before that, though, make sure you spec it right, considering options like the $6,000 S Sport Package with all the performance goodies, the $1,050 Black Optic Package, and the $2,450 Executive Package, putting the SQ8 well in the six-figure where does the 2024 Audi SQ8 fit in the crowded world of luxury SUVs? It's not as unhinged as its RS Q8 big brother, but it's a hell of a lot more exciting than the standard Q8. Think of it as the Goldilocks of the lineup, delivering a just-right blend of performance, luxury, and daily usability.
The driving experience is precise and engaging, thanks to all that fancy tech working behind the scenes. The adaptive air suspension and active roll stabilization make this two-and-a-half-ton beast feel surprisingly nimble, tackling those back roads with the eagerness of a much smaller car. And while the steering might not be overflowing with feel, it's very accurate.
The twin-turbo V8 delivers a wallop of power, but it could use a bit more bark to match its bite. Sure, it sounds decent enough in Dynamic mode, but a bit more raw, unfiltered V8 growl would really complete the experience. Come on, Audi, let that beast sing!
At nearly a hundred grand to start and quickly climbing into the six figures with the fun options, this kind of versatility doesn't come cheap. But for the right buyer, it might just be the perfect blend of everything. This is a daily driver that is up for almost any occasion.
