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Audi SQ8 Quattro 2023 Review

Audi SQ8 2023 front quarter 1

Audi SQ8 – Last week I drove one of my favourite SUVs. The Audi SQ8. Big, powerful, luxurious, fast and practical is how I describe the SQ8.

Launched in late 2021 I was looking forward to a longer dive and I wasn’t disappointed.

Its as comfortable as any SUV and full of the little luxuries that Audi can throw in there. Its perfect for someone my size and will accommodate a small family.

The beating heart is a smooth 4.0L TFSI twin Turbo V8 petrol engine that has a crackling burble to the exhaust. I love it.

The new V8 produces 373 kW of power and 770 Nm of torque. They will run from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds. Top speed is governed at 250kmh.

To add to the sport credentials there is the famous Audi Quattro AWD system, a robust 8 speed Tiptronic transmission as well as dynamic all-wheel steering and adaptive sport air suspension as standard. There is a dynamic package for the pure enthusiasts.

Sometimes its hard to wrap my head around just how dynamic an almost 3000kg SUV can be. It almost defies physics.

The Audi SQ8 sits in the driveway nudging me to take it for a drive, it whispers, lets have some fun.  It encourages you to pack the boot and go for a drive to Noosa and back, simply for the sheer pleasure of the drive.

Audi SQ8 is priced from $168,800 plus the usual costs and that listeners is a bargain.

This is a Motoring Minute

I’m Rob Fraser

TO LISTEN TO THE AUDI SQ8 RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW

https://www.ozroamer.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/BTW-3947-Feb-8.mp3?_=1

To read a more detailed report from the Australian launch GO HERE.

Audi SQ8 Quick thoughts

Audi SQ8 Final thoughts

The word that comes to mind is AWESOME!

Stylish design combined with superb performance.

All the while the Audi interior cocoons the occupants in absolute comfort.

The SQ8 is built on the same platform as the Bentley Bentayga, Porsche Cayenne and Lamborghini Urus. Are they worth the extra money?

For me the answer is NO!

Some buyers are willing to pay 2-3 times as much for the badge or to go a second faster from 0-100km/h

Id rather have the Audi SQ8 and save the $200,000 or more and have just as much fun.

What is good?

  • Overall ambience/ Stylish looks
  • Engine performance and economy
  • Balanced ride/handling

What is not so good?

  • Can get pricey with options packs.
  • Adaptive function on cruise control not selective
  • Not fussed on the transmission lever

Also look at

The large AWD SUV segment is full of vehicles some good some trading on a badge.

Buyers could look at the Maserati Levante, Range Rover Sport, Jaguar F-PACE, Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio

Audi     

Model

Audi SQ8

Model Price $168,800 PAT $191.021 MLP*
Engine 4.0L V8 TFSI Bi Turbo Petrol Euro 6
Drivetrain Quattro AWD 8Sp Tiptronic
Battery Capacity / type N/A
Power 373kW @ 5,500rpm
Torque 770Nm @ 2,000 – 4,000rpm
Fuel ADR 12.2L/100km
Fuel on Test 12.5L/100k
Fuel capacity 85L
Range (WLTP) / efficiency N/A
Fast Charge / Home (240V) N/A
Safety 5 Star ANCAP (Q8 Tested 2019)
CO2 Emissions 279g/km
0-100kmh/Top Speed 4.1 sec / 250km/h limited
Servicing 12 Mth / 15,000km – Capped Price service pack
Warranty 5yr/ unlimited km
Roadside Assist 5Yr. conditional roadside assist

*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges)

Overall Rating    

93/100

Behind the Wheel 9
Comfort 9
Equipment 9
Performance 9
Ride and Handling 10
Practicality 9
Fit for Purpose 10
Style / appeal 9
Technology / connectivity 10
Value for Money 9

Dimensions

 
Overall Length 5006mm
Wheelbase 2998mm
Width 1995mm
Height 1699mm
Wheels 22×10 Alloy
Tyres 285/40 R22
Max ground clearance Up to 209mm
Wading Depth N/A
Approach N/A
Rampover N/A
Departure angle N/A
Turning Circle KTK 13.3m
Boot Capacity Min 605L
Boot capacity Max 1755L
Battery Weight N/A
Kerb Weight 2565kg
Payload (kg) 400kg
GVM (kg) 2960kg
GCM 6460kg
Towing Capacity 3500kg
Tow Ball rating 350kg

Audi SQ8 Price as Tested Options

Options

Audi SQ8 Key Highlights

Exterior

Interior

Infotainment and connectivity technology

Safety

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