2024 Audi Q8 e-tron quattro: First luxury EV SUV still among the best

Published 1:30 pm Monday, January 29, 2024

Audi introduced the e-tron as the first all-electric luxury SUV in 2018. For some reason I never got to test one until now, when the 2024 version has been renamed the Audi Q8 e-tron quattro. As it turns out, that was fortuitous. I have tested a lot of EV SUVs since then, and the Audi is so good, I would have judged them more harshly. And after testing all of others, I can honestly say the 2024 Q8 e-tron is still among the very best, despite being five years old, an eternity in the rapidly evolving EV world.

The Q8 e-tron is not the fastest EV in its class. Nor does it have the most range, although it is significantly improved for 2024. But the midsize SUV is so good looking and sophisticated that those shortcomings are easy to overlook. Somehow Audi set the bar so high the first time out that only the newest EVs have caught up.

Styling always creates the first impression. Most other EVs are either based on existing gas-powered models, in which case they don’t look any different, or are wildly designed to draw attention to themselves. Instead, the Q8 e-tron — which is available as a hatchback or fastback — looks like an usually handsome sport SUV, which of course it is. The front end is especially bold, with a low and wide air dam. The biggest giveaway that my tester was an EV were the flush 20” wheels that were larger than those found on most gas-powered SUVs.

All EVs are smooth and quiet, of course. But the Q8 is a class above, which is only appropriate because traditional gas-powered Audis have always felt more refined than even more expensive European competitors. Audis are a pleasure to drive, and the Q8 is no exception, with a supple suspension that absorbs imperfections without disturbing the occupants.

Inside, the Q8 is very roomy and comfortable, with a lot of space in the back seats and a tremendous amount of cargo space, thanks to it being a two-row midsize. The shifter is like a large toggle switch, which is perfect for an EV. Instead of having an oversized like most competitors, the dash features two smaller stacked screen, a throwback look that provides all necessary information and controls but is easier to use than switching back and forth between functions on a single screen.

Set in Drive, the dual engines in my tester generated an impressive 335 horsepower and 414 foot-pounds of torque. Set in Sport from the shifter, the output jumps to a compelling 402 horsepower and 490 foot-pounds of torque. The difference isn’t immediately noticeable in normal day-to-day driving but best reserved for long empty streets and freeway passing.

For those who want greater power, the new 2024 SQ8 e-tron and SQ8 e-tron Sportback deliver up to 496 horsepower through three electric motors, for more money, of course.

Up until last year, the e-tron could only go about 220 miles on a full charge. That was respectable when it was first introduced, but not now. So for 2024, Audi has significantly increase the range of the Q8. The standard version is now EPA-estimated at 285 miles, while the more aerodynamic Sportback gets 296 miles and 300 miles with the optional Ultra package and its 19-inch wheels and tires. That is more than enough to remain competitive.

Recharging times have also improved. According to Audi, the 2024 Q8 can now take in 170 kilowatts (20 more than last year) at a DC fast-charger, allowing it to go from a 10 percent battery to 80 percent full in around 30 minutes. For Level 2 home charging, the standard 9.6-kW charger will refill the battery in a claimed 13 hours (or overnight), while the optional 19.2-kW setup (an $1850 upgrade) can do it in half that time if the 240-volt charger can deliver 80 amps.

The improvements are just one small sign of Audi’s commitment to an all-electric future. The company has already three other EVs, the compact Q4 e-tron and Q4 Sportback e-tron, and the very sporty looking e-tron GT that I haven’t had a chance to test yet. The company promises to have more than 10 electric models in 2025, with 30% of sales from all-electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. Audi is targeting to fully electrify its entire portfolio by 2033.

As always, a word of advice. All-electric vehicles are best suited for owners with a garage or at least a driveway where they can be charged at home. There are simply not yet enough reliable public charging stations for anyone to completely rely on them. Nor are there likely to be in the foreseeable future, despite government promises and spending.

That said, EVs offer many benefits for owners who think them through. If you’re in the market for a top-level all-electric midsize luxury SUV with style and performance, both versions of the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron should be at that top of your shopping list.

2024 Audi Q8 e-tron quattro

Base price: $74,400 (Premium)

Price as tested: $88,990 (Prestige)

Type: Midsize luxury crossover EV SUV

Powertrain: Dual electric motors (335 hp, 414 ft-lbs / 402 hp, 490 ft-lbs in Sport mode)

Transmission: Single-speed transmission with quattro AWD

Drive modes: Offroad, Allroad, Efficient, Comfort, Auto, Sport (through shifter)

EPA estimated range: 285 to 300 miles (Ultra package)

EPA estimated mileage: 81 MPGe

Overall length: 193.5 inches

Curb weight: 5962 pounds

Final assembly: Brussels, Belgium