audi audi q8 2021

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audi audi q8 2021

Audi has one row of fewer seats and a lot more style than the three-row Q7 SUV it’s based on. With a coupe-like shape and bolder body structure, the Q8 kicks off two rows from the company’s line of ultimate crossovers, which also includes the separately-reviewed SQ8 and RS Q8. Although the regular Q8 is less powerful than its sportier counterparts, it still has a 335-hp turbo V-6 and standard Quattro all-wheel drive . The Q8 also provides a car-like driving experience that is sporty and elegant. Its cabin is beautifully appointed and solidly assembled in typical Audi style. While it seats fewer people and has less cargo space than its three-row sibling, the 2021 Q8 is best suited for those who prioritize sport, luxury and style.

audi

For 2021, the Audi Q8 has given new standard features and revised option packages . All models now have Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. The premium model’s Comfort Package adds a heated steering wheel and a top-view camera. A heated steering wheel is standard on the Premium Plus model, too, and the optional Executive Package now contains even more content. This includes adaptive cruise control, heated rear seats, lane-keep assist, matrix-style headlights, and leather-wrapped armrests.

The Q8 is much more expensive than the Q7, with a starting price of around $13,000. But, as they say, this is the price of fashion. The 8 is undoubtedly more elegant than the 7, which is probably its biggest draw. To offset the price discrepancy and maximize crossover value, we stick to the Premium Premium segment and load it up with options, which will still be cheaper than choosing the Premium Plus. Notable standard features on our bespoke model include a fully digital instrument cluster, integrated navigation, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof and a power tailgate. So we add the enhanced look that comes with the Black Optic Package (21-inch wheels and black outer rim), the Convenience Package (Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Wireless Charging, and more), and also the Towing Package. The latter opens the maximum diameter of the Q8 to 7,700 pounds.

Engine, transmission and performance audi

Every Q8 is powered by a 3.0-liter V-6 turbocharged engine that produces 335 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive system. The 48V Hybrid Assist assists with the shutdown process, which was smooth and quiet during our experience. While the Audi had intentional highway crossing power, I felt hesitant around town unless we smashed the throttle. The transmission had mostly compliant feedback, but it cooperated better with the engine in Dynamic mode, which elicited more slick responses. We only wish the engine and exhaust made bolder sounds. The Q8 can also tow up to 7,700 pounds when properly equipped. Following the guidelines set by other “coupe” crossovers, the Q8 delivers high drivability with sporty driving responses.

Although they quickly change directions and obediently navigate around corners, they are less attractive than Audi sedans, such as the elegant A7. The Q8’s steering featured light effort and linear feedback, which was convenient on long rides but boring on shift roads. Our test car had optional air suspension and wore standard 22-inch-20 inch wheels. These large rollers were mostly quiet even on uneven surfaces. With adjustable ride heights and four-wheel steering (included in the Adaptive Chassis package), our Q8 was agile in tight spaces and capable of handling choppy terrain. The brake pedal was easy to adjust quickly on the highway but suffered from inconsistent reactions in traffic. However, it took the heavy crossover from 70 mph to zero in a competitive 170 ft. during an emergency braking test.

audi fuel economy

The Q8 has average EPA ratings that are lower than some of its all-wheel-drive competitors. The government estimates that Audi gets 17 mpg city and 21 highway, which matches the six-cylinder Q7. The Q8 we took on our highway to fuel economy also significantly exceeded expectations. It got 28 mpg over a 200-mile range, while the last Q7 we tested saw 24 mpg in the same test. The similarly equipped BMW X6 returned 25 mpg.

interior cabin comfort and cargo audi

In an exemplary fashion, Audi has created a sophisticated and powerful environment inside the Q8. The materials are excellent, and the panels are expertly consistent. While the base model lacks upscale features like four-zone climate control and a leather dashboard with contrast stitching, it does have standard heated front seats and a panoramic sunroof. Only the better model offers massaging front seats, upgraded leather surfaces, and quieter double-pane windows. Our test car had it all plus a head-up display and customizable interior ambient lighting.

The Q8 is not only visually impressive, but has enough room for passengers. The driving position remains sporty despite its high ride height, and two adults can lay out in the back leisurely. Although the two-row Q8’s cargo volume is less than the three-row Q7, we were able to squeeze eight hand luggage behind the back seat. That number rose to 23 (twice less than the Q7) with the foldable rear seat bench folded almost flat. Our test car has the optional air suspension, which can lower the rear end to help lift luggage in and out. Inside, the Q8 has limited storage space. The shallow center console bay and narrow door pockets leave few places to stow small items.

infotainment and contact audi

With a pair of vibrant touch screens integrated into the dashboard and center console, each Q8 features a sophisticated infotainment system. Instead of the intuitive rotating console found on other Audi models, the screens respond to touch inputs with haptic feedback. We quickly absorbed its logical menus and large iconoclasm, but distractions were inevitable. Fortunately, receiving voice commands and steering wheel controls provide an alternative operation. Standard features include Wi-Fi hotspot, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Wireless charging and two different Bang & Olufsen audio systems are optional. We privately fund the standard digital gauge cluster (called the Virtual Cockpit), with its configurable settings and great navigation.

Safety and driver assistance features

The 2021 Q8 received a five-star rating in crash testing from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and the latest version evaluated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) was named a Top Safety Pick. While the base model is available with several driver aids, more advanced options, such as adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go technology and night vision with pedestrian detection, are for higher trims. Our test car had the optional 360-degree camera system that helped us navigate narrow driving lanes and avoid scratching huge rims. Key safety features include:

Standard Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking

Standard blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert

Lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist are available

Warranty and maintenance coverage

Audi offers the same Limited Warranty and powertrain as BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Q8 also includes a brief free scheduled maintenance period.

The limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles

The powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles

Free maintenance is covered for 1 year or 10,000 miles

Vehicle Type

Front engine, 4WD, 5-passenger, 4-door hatchback

Engine type

Turbocharged and intercooler DOHC 24 valve V-6, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection