The SQ8 e-tron is the performance-oriented version of the Q8 e-tron, distinguishing itself with a tri-motor powertrain that adds significantly more power and agility. It features a wider stance, sharper handling, and aggressive styling cues that separate it from the standard model. It is available in both a traditional SUV body style and a coupe-like “Sportback” silhouette.

Performance & Engineering

• Powertrain: Three electric motors (one on the front axle, two on the rear axle)

• Output: 496 horsepower (in Boost Mode) / 718 lb-ft of torque

• Acceleration: 0-60 mph in approximately 4.2 seconds

• Drivetrain: Electric quattro® All-Wheel Drive with electric torque vectoring

• Battery: 114 kWh gross (106 kWh usable capacity)

• Range: EPA-estimated range is approximately 253 miles (varies by wheel size and body style)

• Charging: 170 kW DC Fast Charging capability (10-80% charge in ~31 minutes)

• Suspension: Sport-tuned adaptive air suspension that can adjust ride height and firmness

Exterior Styling

The SQ8 e-tron wears a more muscular suit than the standard Q8 e-tron, featuring functional aerodynamic upgrades:

• Widebody Design: Flared fenders add 1.5 inches to the vehicle’s width to accommodate wider tires

• S-Specific Accents: Aluminum-optic styling on the exterior mirrors, door blades, and rear diffuser

• Wheels: Standard 20-inch alloy wheels, with available 21-inch and 22-inch designs

• Grille: Unique Singleframe grille with an open-structure design for improved cooling

• Lighting: Matrix-design LED headlights with dynamic turn signals

Interior & Technology

• Seats: 12-way power-adjustable front Sport seats with integrated headrests and “S” embossing

• Upholstery: Valcona leather with diamond stitching

• Displays: Dual MMI touch response screens (10.1-inch upper, 8.6-inch lower) and the 12.3-inch “Virtual Cockpit Plus” digital gauge cluster

• Trim: Carbon square structure inlays (real carbon fiber trim)

• Climate: 4-zone automatic climate control

• Roof: Panoramic glass sunroof (standard on SUV models)

Trim Levels

The SQ8 e-tron is generally offered in two primary trim levels:

• Premium Plus: The entry point which includes the Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system, heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, and a top-view camera system

• Prestige: Adds soft-closing doors, a head-up display, intersection assist, manual rear side window sunshades, and the Intersection Assist safety feature

Key Option Packages

• Black Optic Package: Replaces the aluminum-optic exterior accents with high-gloss black trim, adds black roof rails, and includes unique anthracite gray Audi rings and badges

• Carbon Package: Adds carbon fiber exterior mirror housings and specific carbon exterior trim elements

Safety & Driver Assistance

Standard safety equipment includes a comprehensive suite of active features:

• Adaptive Cruise Assist with Lane Guidance

• Audi Pre Sense Front (Forward Collision Warning & Avoidance)

• Lane Departure Warning

• Side Assist (Blind Spot Monitoring) with Rear Cross Traffic Assist

• Parking System Plus with 360-degree cameras