30-01-2025
2024 Audi Q8 e-tron Sportback review: Saying goodbye
Over the years, we've seen the e-tron grow up, graduating from 'EV newcomer' to an established player. What was once a standalone model has now evolved into multiple iterations to suit different tastes. But we're here for the Q8 e-tron's sleeker, quicker-ish Sportback sibling, one that trades practicality for coupe-like curves with just the right amount of futuristic flair.
With a 'measly' 402 horsepower to spare and 300 miles of range, it's not exactly a Tesla slayer, but it's more about poise than punch. Inside, it's typical Audi understated luxury that's precisely engineered to please. For pricing, though, it's premium but not outrageous, starting at a strong $77,600 and climbing past the $90,000 territory if you're feeling a bit adventurous with the options the floor, the Q8 e-tron Sportback hides a dual-motor setup with electric motors positioned on either axle. Combined, these motors generate a respectable 402 horsepower and 490 lb-ft of torque, routed through a rear-drive biased e-quattro AWD drivetrain.
That's enough power to propel this 5,800-pound from a standstill to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds before it hits the limiter at 124 mph. So, while not Tesla-Model-Y-Performance-quick, the Q8 e-tron delivers ample punch for confident merging and spirited cruising.
Economy-wise, things look decent. EPA estimates peg the range of the Q8 e-tron Sportback with the 'Ultra Package' at 300 miles on a full charge, which puts it up against the likes of the Mercedes EQE and Model X. However, during my testing, the maximum range I was able to muster was around 250 miles of real-world driving.
Luckily, the Q8 e-tron supports DC fast-charging capabilities at up to 170 kWh, enough for a 10 – 80% charge in roughly 31 adaptive air suspension soaks up road imperfections well, keeping things serene inside. However, despite its 'Sportback' name, the handling isn't nearly as sharp as you'd expect. There's noticeable body roll through corners, and performance is lacking compared to its rivals. Steering is quick, but it doesn't do much to mask the SUV's heft, making it clear this is more about comfort than agility.
Inside, the Q8 e-tron Sportback leans into understated luxury with a focus on clean design and attention to detail. Rather than relying on flashy gimmicks or oversized touchscreen displays, the cabin maintains a refined and uncluttered layout, staying true to Audi's signature approach.
The quality of materials remains up to the mark, with soft-touch, supple Valcona leather upholstery, and tasteful metal accents making the cabin look premium, all the while futuristic. For eco-conscious buyers, Audi offers optional sustainable materials like Dinamica, ensuring no cows are harmed in the process.
The dual MMI touchscreens handle both infotainment and climate control, and while they're responsive and easy to use, they don't exactly impress. The tech feels a bit dated compared to newer systems, but it gets the job done without frustration. The upper 10.1-inch display provides access to sat-nav, Bluetooth, and a Bang & Olufsen 3D surround sound system that's truly the 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus behind the wheel delivers crisp, customizable visuals for range, navigation, and other key driver information. It's all functional and well-integrated, even if it doesn't wow you. Having wireless Android Auto is a welcome touch.
The Q8 e-tron comes standard with 8-way powered seats (upgradable to ventilated and massaging seats), which – paired with the cabin's triple-pane acoustic glass – are perfect for long commutes or cross-country getaways.
Amongst EVs that either look like they're part of a sci-fi movie or a Picasso painting gone rogue *coughs* BMW iX *coughs*, the Q8 e-tron Sportback avoids both extremes, striking a balance between contemporary sophistication and understated elegance.
Up front sits a reworked singleframe grille that's accented by a new light bar running across the top for visual drama. Speaking of visuals, the LED Matrix headlamps (upgradable to Digital Matrix LEDs) position on the flanks, projecting patterns and guide beams to avoid dazzling oncoming traffic.
Swing around the side, and the Sportback's sleek, coupe-ish roofline comes into the picture, flowing effortlessly into its tapered rear for the sporty stance it so deserves. Also on the sides are contoured wheel arches that house wheels of up to 22 inches, with aero-optimized designs that not only look the part but also play it.
Meanwhile, redesigned LED taillights – now with animated sequences and customizable patterns – run across the car's rear profile, creating a light show that's sure to impress. A subtle rear spoiler completes the aerodynamic package, enhancing high-speed stability but also aerodynamic for the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron Sportback begin at a strong $77,600 for the base models and go all the way up to $92,600 for the range-topping Prestige trim with all the bells and whistles. In contrast, the Q8 e-tron is squarely in the crosshairs of competitors like the Tesla Model X (fetching $81,630) and the BMW iX xDrive50 (retailing $87,250 base), both of which boast better acceleration and accumulate higher range numbers.
The Q8 e-tron lineup is perfectly fine, but it doesn't exactly excel as an electric vehicle. It struggles to match the performance or range of key rivals, doesn't offer any standout tech advantages, and its slower charging speeds make long-distance travel more of a hassle than it should be. While the interior is undeniably well-crafted, there's little to make the Q8 e-tron a truly compelling choice in a competitive EV market. That said, Audi has already decided to pull the plug, with production set to end on February 28, 2025.
