2024 Audi Q8 E-Tron

Sounding like something out of a Transformers movie, Audi took the world by storm when they first introduced their version of an electric vehicle in 2019. This is when production began for the Q8 E-Tron but the concept was developed a decade before (in 2009) believe it or not. The base price starts at $75,595 and the top of the line model actually isn’t too far off in pricing going for $89,395. 

What makes this car special though is the powertrain (that comes standard on select E-Tron models). The quattro All-Wheel Drive has the ability to switch between two wheel and all wheel drive depending on the terrain the vehicle is crossing over, which is obviously very helpful to the driver when extra grip is provided and peace of mind. 

What’s New for 2024?

All along the E-Tron has been distinguished and known as E-Tron and E-Tron Sportback SUV’s, however, for 2024 a slight change in the name has been added. “Q8” is actually a 2024 addition which was introduced to avoid confusion with the other members of the growing EV family Audi has started. The grille was redesigned, the lighting elements restyled, and the car even got an upgraded set of wheels. But that’s not all! A new battery pack was added as well – 106.0 kWh – which is ideally supposed to give the car more range and a better chance to compete with its rivals.

EV Motor, Power, and Performance

Under the hood of this vehicle you will find 2 electric motors – one at the front axle and the other at the rear. They work together to provide electric all wheel drive, but the rear does most of the work. In regular driving circumstances, the base model makes 355 horsepower and 419 lb ft of torque, however, shifting into sports mode really livens things up. While in this gear, one can make 402 horsepower and 490 lb ft of torque. Impressive right? 

In the 0-60 MPH test, this car makes it in 5.2 seconds (in the Sportback model), which isn’t bad for an electric vehicle. For gas powered cars a decent time from 0-60 is 5.7 seconds, so this is within that range and slightly better than most cars. 

The E-Tron features a snappy acceleration – a common feature among electric vehicles – and the overall ride is said to be quiet and smooth.

Did you know: The 2024 Q8 E-Tron has towing capabilities of up to 4000 lbs?

Range, Charging, and Battery Life

The estimated miles per charge for the 106.0 kWh battery is 285 for the base model and 300 for the Sportback model – but only if you order the Ultra package. Within this package, you receive: 

• 19 inch wheels 
• A suspension that is specially tuned for efficiency 

Every E-Tron also features a 170 kW fast charger that allows for 80% of battery life to be restored within 30 minutes. 

Fuel Economy and Real World MPGe

The EPA estimates the base model will make 80 MPGe city / 83 MPGe highway, while the Sportback model sees slightly better figures at 84 MPGe city / 89 MPGe highway. For more information, please visit the EPA’s website linked here.     

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The Q8 E-Tron is more than just a souped up electric vehicle and this section will prove that. Its dashboard features a couple pretty impressive things – multiple high resolution screens, that include Audi’s digital gauge cluster (called the Virtual Cockpit), and 2 flush mounted touchscreens in the center. There are also a variety of upscale options that can be added to the vehicle including a head up display and massaging front seats – yes you read that right. And thanks to the flat ground (to accommodate the battery) the massage will feel even better – talk about luxury. 

The cargo space is also a really great feature especially in a car of this calibre There is 29 cubic feet behind the back row and this is increased to 57 when the seatbacks are folded. On the Sportback model, the sloping roofline reduces both spaces by 2 cubes, however, 7 carry on suitcases can still fit behind the rear seats – 1 less than the amount that can fit in the base model (the regular E-Tron).

 Infotainment and Connectivity

Some would argue the most impressive form of technology on this model would be the electrical system and they wouldn’t be wrong, but there are a lot of other reasons to like this car as well. For one thing, the infotainment systems run through dual touchscreens with a 10.1 inch display on top and 8.6 inch unit below. And the cool part is the 2 systems provide 2 different uses. With the top screen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available (standard) as well as a Bang and Olufsen audio system. The bottom screen is used for climate control. There are several power points throughout and a subscription based Wi-Fi hotspot is also available. A wireless smartphone charger is an optional feature.  

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Audi’s have also always been known for their safety features and the E-Tron is not the exception. There are tons of safety features that come standard on both the E-Tron body styles and they come available with adaptive cruise control and self parking assist. Information on the Q8 E-Tron SUV and Q8 E-Tron Sportback crash test results can be found here on the NHSTA’s website.

Key safety features include: 

• Standard forward collision warning automated emergency braking 
• Standard blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert 
• Standard lane departure warning  

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

In comparison to Audi’s competitors (BMW’s iX and Jaguar’s I-Pace), the E-Tron offers a competitive and unremarkable limited and warranty powertrains. 

• Limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles 
• Powertrain warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles 
• Electrical components are covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles
• No complimentary scheduled maintenance