Introduction
Electric cars have become increasingly popular in recent years, with automakers like Audi leading the charge. The 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron EV is the latest addition to Audi’s electric lineup, and it aims to rival the BMW iX in both driving range and performance. In this review, we will delve into the facelifted Q8 e-tron and explore the improvements that Audi has made to compete in the luxury EV SUV market.
Audi’s Naming Confusion
Audi’s naming scheme for their electrified vehicles has caused some confusion among car enthusiasts. While previous models used “rron” as a suffix, the Q8 e-tron breaks the pattern by using it as a noun. This unexpected change adds to the intrigue surrounding Audi’s electric offerings. Furthermore, Audi has given the Q8 e-tron a facelift, along with a range of enhancements to make it a formidable contender against the BMW iX, Jaguar I-Pace, and Mercedes-Benz EQC.
Familiar Platform and Underpinnings
Despite the Q8 e-tron’s electrified nature, it shares the same MLB Evo architecture as its internal combustion counterparts, such as the Q7. This platform, which was first introduced in 2015, has proven its reliability and versatility over the years. It also underpins SUVs from Bentley, Lamborghini, and Porsche, emphasizing the high-quality components used in the Q8 e-tron.
A Single Variant for Now
Currently, Audi offers only one variant of the Q8 e-tron, known as the Q8 e-tron 55. This model features a larger battery than its predecessor, the Q8 e-tron 50, and is available in both traditional SUV wagon and sportback SUV coupe styles. Pricing starts at $1,153,900 for the former and $1,650,000 for the latter, representing a significant increase over previous models. Despite the higher price tag, all Q8 e-tron models come well-equipped with adaptive air suspension, front and rear climate control, heated seats, leather upholstery, and adjustable regenerative energy paddles.
Audi Sport Edition
Some lucky buyers will have the opportunity to own an Audi Sport edition Q8 e-tron. Priced at $1,659,000, these limited launch edition SUVs come with exclusive features such as black 21-inch wheels, bolstered front seats, dark trim, and more. These special touches add a sporty and stylish flair to the already luxurious Q8 e-tron.
Competitive Pricing and Specifications
The pricing and specifications of the Q8 e-tron are in line with its luxury European EV SUV competitors. While they are on the expensive side, the Q8 e-tron offers a range of advanced features and cutting-edge technology that justifies the price tag. Audi has worked hard to ensure that the Q8 e-tron provides a compelling alternative to the BMW iX and other rivals in the segment.
In , the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron EV represents a significant step forward for Audi’s electric lineup. With its facelifted appearance, extended driving range, and range of improvements, the Q8 e-tron is ready to take on the competition. Whether you choose the traditional SUV or
Visual Changes
The 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron EV has undergone some visual changes to enhance its overall appearance.
The new version of the Q8 e-tron features a redesigned mask with a wider and sleeker grill. This gives the car a better stance on the road and provides a more modern look.
One notable change is the debut of the new logo display. This 2D flat effect logo will be seen on future Audi models, starting with the Q8 e-tron. It adds a touch of sophistication to the car’s exterior.
Moving to the sides of the car, there have been redesigns of the headlights and bumper. The improved arrow bits and fresh wheels contribute to the car’s overall aerodynamics.
One practical feature that remains unchanged is the presence of two flaps, one on each side. This is a convenient feature for drivers and adds to the car’s functionality.
There is also a badge located on the billar, displaying the make and model. Some may find this design choice debatable.
It is worth noting that the sportback version of the Q8 e-tron comes with additional aerodynamic aids, enhancing its overall performance.
At the back of the car, there have been minimal or no changes. The design has held up well over the past five years and still maintains a good look.
Interior Changes
The interior of the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron EV has seen minimal changes compared to its predecessor.
However, the previous interior design already had a strikingly stylish and art market feel to it. It continues to offer a spacious cabin capable of accommodating up to five people comfortably.
The front seats remain superbly supportive, making long-distance driving a pleasure. Plenty of storage options are available, allowing for easy organization and accessibility.
Ample ventilation ensures a comfortable climate inside the car, while the suitably moody lighting adds to the overall ambiance.
Although the Q8 e-tron’s dashboard may not be the most modern on the market, it maintains an architectural appearance and presentation. Its simplicity and functionality are key features that define Audi’s design language.
Please note that this review does not include technical specifications, driving experience, or a comparison to the BMW iX. The focus is solely on the visual and interior changes of the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron EV.
Trim and material quality
The 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron EV does not disappoint when it comes to trim and material quality, living up to the brand’s expectations. The interior features a luxurious feel, resembling a proper premium SUV. The quality of materials used and the rich aroma exude elegance. The switch gear feels sturdy and well-crafted, staying true to the brand’s reputation. The instrumentation is clear, concise, and highly informative. The driving position is excellent, offering a great view from the front. The spaciousness and practicality of the Q8 e-tron are evident in both the wagon and sportback variants.
The outdated dash
Despite the changes and upgrades since its predecessor, the dash of the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron EV feels a bit outdated. Its design seems reminiscent of the 2016 Audi Q7, which may not be appealing to some potential buyers. However, this minor drawback does not overshadow the overall luxurious experience that the Q8 e-tron offers.
Optional exterior mirrors
One feature that may not live up to expectations is the optional exterior camera mirrors. While they may appear innovative, they lack the intuitive and natural feel of traditional mirrors. In case of an emergency situation, it becomes uncertain where to look, posing a potential safety concern. Therefore, it is advisable to stick with the conventional exterior mirrors, which provide a sense of reliability and familiarity.
Space and design
One of the advantages of choosing the Q8 e-tron wagon over the sportback variant is the larger boot capacity. With 569 liters of space compared to the sportback’s 528 liters, the wagon provides additional room for your belongings. Furthermore, many would argue that the wagon offers a more visually appealing design, adding to its overall appeal.
Storage and charging
One convenient feature of the Q8 e-tron is the storage compartment located under the front bonnet. This space is ideal for storing all your charging cables, ensuring they are readily available whenever needed. Speaking of charging, the Q8 e-tron’s range has been extended, allowing for longer journeys without the need for frequent charging stops.
Overall, the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron EV impresses with its trim and material quality, providing a luxurious and comfortable interior. While the dash may seem a bit outdated, it does not affect the overall premium experience. The optional exterior camera mirrors may not be as intuitive as expected, making the conventional mirrors a safer choice. The Q8 e-tron wagon offers more boot capacity and a visually appealing design. With convenient storage for charging cables and an extended driving range, the Q8 e-tron proves to be a reliable and practical electric car option.
Improved Efficiency and Performance
The 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron EV has received a facelift, and with it comes upgraded motor internals that significantly improve efficiency. This is particularly noticeable in the 55 model, where the dual motor setup now delivers a combined 300 KW of power and 664 NM of torque.
Thanks to this upgrade, the Q8 e-tron can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.6 seconds, making it a powerful contender in the electric SUV market. Its top speed has also been increased to 200 km/h, offering a thrilling driving experience for those who crave speed.
Driving Experience and Handling
The Q8 e-tron continues Audi’s legacy of producing smooth and quiet SUVs. As an all-electric vehicle, it excels in providing a serene and comfortable driving experience, which is particularly important in the premium vehicle segment. The acceleration is strong, and the steering is light and maneuverable.
However, what sets the Q8 e-tron apart is that it still manages to offer a dynamic and enjoyable driving experience. It retains enough meat and feel through corners, making it engaging for those who enjoy spirited driving. The addition of more direct steering and stiffer front suspension further enhances its handling capabilities.
Ride Quality and Comfort
The Q8 e-tron comes equipped with adaptive air suspension as a standard feature. This setup ensures that the vehicle generally rides comfortably, absorbing road imperfections with ease. However, it’s worth noting that the ride quality can vary depending on the chosen wheel and tire package.
While the optional 21-inch wheel and tire package may be visually appealing, I personally prefer the ride on the standard wheel. The smaller wheels seem to offer a more balanced and comfortable ride, especially on Australian roads.
Noise Levels and Brand Identity
Audi has always prided itself on providing a refined and premium driving experience, and the Q8 e-tron stays true to this brand identity. The overall noise levels inside the cabin are impressively low, making for a serene and peaceful journey, whether you’re driving on smooth city roads or tackling rougher terrains.
However, it’s worth noting that on certain courses, such as the B course that I tested it on, the Q8 e-tron did exhibit some noise. But overall, it remains on brand in terms of delivering a satisfying driving experience.
Overall, the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron EV is a formidable rival to its competitors, such as the BMW iX. With its improved efficiency, powerful performance, and superb driving dynamics, it offers an enticing package for those in the market for an electric SUV. Whether you prioritize comfort, handling, or brand identity, the Q8 e-tron delivers on multiple fronts, solidifying Audi’s presence in the ever-growing electric vehicle market.
Driving Experience and Weight
When you sit behind the wheel of the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron EV, one thing that immediately becomes apparent is the weight of the vehicle. It’s equipped with a massive battery placed low down, but there’s no escaping the laws of physics. As you accelerate, the car does feel fastnot many would argue against that. However, you also can’t help but notice the sheer mass of the car. This becomes particularly evident when navigating through tighter corners. Despite Audi’s inclusion of paddle shifters to offer various levels of regenerative braking, allowing you to slow down without touching the brake pedal, it falls short of providing a full one-pedal driving experience. While it works well in urban settings, it doesn’t bring the car to a complete stop. This indicates the age of the Q8 e-tron.
Dynamics and Age
In terms of dynamics, the Q8 e-tron is unquestionably agile and capable. However, it also carries a sense of its age and weight. Although it performs adequately on the road, there’s a subtle feeling of its limitations. Nevertheless, there is some good news to be found.
Battery Size and Charging Time
Audi has increased the lithium-ion battery pack size for the 2024 Q8 e-tron from 95 to 114 kWh. This enhanced capacity is accompanied by faster DC charging capability, with a jump from 150 to 70 kW. The result? Charging times have been considerably reduced. According to Audi’s claims, the driving range is 454 km WLTP, while the average consumption is 25.6 kWh per 100 km, which is rather disappointing. During our own test run with the Q8 e-tron, the recorded consumption averaged in the mid to high 20s.
Safety Testing and Rating
It’s worth mentioning that the Q8 e-tron recently achieved a five-star crash test rating from ANCAP, assuring buyers of its commitment to safety.
Overall, the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron EV offers a driving experience that showcases both its agility and the weight it carries. While it may feel a bit dated, the increased battery size and faster charging capability significantly enhance its appeal. However, the disappointingly average consumption figures do raise some concerns. Nevertheless, with its improved safety rating, the Q8 e-tron proves to be a noteworthy competitor in the electric car market, especially when compared to the BMW iX.
Design and Interior
The 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron EV greets you with a refreshed and modern design. Its sleek and aerodynamic lines give it an elegant look, while the updated front grille and LED headlights add to its overall appeal. Stepping inside, you are welcomed by a luxurious interior that exudes sophistication. The cabin is spacious, offering ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The premium materials used throughout the interior further enhance the feeling of luxury.
Performance and Range
Equipped with dual electric motors, the Q8 e-tron delivers powerful and seamless acceleration. The instant torque provided by the electric motors allows the SUV to effortlessly tackle any road conditions. With the facelifted model, Audi has extended the driving range, addressing one of the previous shortcomings. While it still falls slightly short compared to its BMW rival, the increased range is a step in the right direction.
Safety and Technology
When it comes to safety, the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron leaves no room for compromise. It is equipped with a plethora of safety features, including a comprehensive set of driver-assist technologies. The surround view cameras provide a 360-degree view, enhancing the overall safety of the vehicle. Additionally, Audi has incorporated advanced passive safety features to ensure maximum protection in case of an accident.
Warranty and Ownership Benefits
Audi stands behind its products with a generous warranty package. The 2024 Q8 e-tron comes with a 5-year, limited kilometer warranty, offering peace of mind to the owners. On top of that, Audi provides 6 years of free roadside assistance, a standard in the industry. The battery warranty is also impressive, covering 8 years or 160,000 km. In terms of ownership experience, Audi owners enjoy 6 years of complimentary access to charge Foxs Network across Australia, reducing the hassle of finding charging stations.
While the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron EV brings welcome changes and improvements, it falls short in a few areas. Its driving experience, though enjoyable, doesn’t quite match up to its BMW rival. Additionally, the range, while extended, is still not on par with the competition. The pricing has also been creeping up, diminishing its value proposition. The name change alone is not enough to keep up with the rapidly evolving EV market. A significant technological leap is needed to ensure the Q8 e-tron remains competitive. Overall, the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron EV is a likable and capable electric SUV, but it faces stiff competition in the segment.
