2021 Audi SQ8 review
Audi SQ8 highlights
Customer rating
RepairPal reliability rating
(data not available)
Pros
- Lovely sounding and powerful V8 engine
- Nimble handling for a luxury SUV
- Surprisingly comfortable, given its performance bent
- Stylish, distinctive exterior
Cons
- Infotainment system can be distracting to use
- Driver's seat has few adjustments
- Limited interior storage
Mileage (EPA estimate)
15 city, 21 highway, 17 combined
Pricing for current inventory
(no current inventory)
Shop with your budget in mind
With V8 power, the 2021 Audi SQ8 is a performance powerhouse that doesn’t skimp on comfort
If the Audi Q8 has the looks, but not quite the performance you’re looking for, then the 2021 Audi SQ8 might be just the ticket. A 500-horsepower V8 engine and sport-tuned suspension take performance to the next level, but without compromising the comfort and luxury of its less expensive sibling.
The V8 engine under the hood makes the SQ8 nearly two seconds quicker to 60 mph than the regular Q8, and the suspension, steering and brakes have all been massaged to make this a surprisingly dynamic driving partner.
Like the Q8, the SQ8 is exceptionally comfortable inside for front and rear passengers. There’s good cargo space behind the second row, but we’d prefer more small-item storage elsewhere. The touchscreen infotainment takes a bit to get used to, but we like that it supports wireless smartphone integration. Unfortunately, like the Q8, the SQ8 reserves its more advanced driver assist systems for Prestige and higher trim levels.
All Audi SQ8 years
What is new for the 2021 Audi SQ8?
- SQ8 trims have been upgraded with Automated Parking as standard equipment this year.
2021 Audi SQ8 trims
Premium Plus:
- 500-hp, 568-lb-ft of torque 4.0L
- Sunroofs
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Memory Seats
- Front Seat Heaters
- Power Seats
- Leather Seats
- Rear View Camera
- Lane Departure Warning
- View our Audi SQ8 Premium Plus inventory
Prestige:
- Includes all features available on the Premium Plus
- Automated Parking
- Rear Sunshade
- Rear Seat Heaters
- Head Up Display
- Automated Cruise Control
- View our Audi SQ8 Prestige inventory
Audi SQ8 photos
5 reasons to buy the 2021 Audi SQ8
What We Like
Driving dynamics: The standard Q8 is fun to drive, but the SQ8 is a blast. The V8 effortlessly accelerates this big SUV, and the suspension backs it up to create a thrilling driving experience, especially considering the SQ8’s size and weight.
Comfort: Even though this is the more aggressively tuned version of this vehicle, the SQ8 remains plenty comfortable. The front and rear seats are firmly but comfortably padded, making them excellent for road trips. The fact that the rear seats are so comfortable is nice to see, since even in luxury vehicles rear seats can get short shrift.
Roomy interior and cargo: With ample headroom and legroom in the front and rear, there’s a ton of space inside the Q8. It all contributes to the feeling of comfort. The SQ8 is also practical, with generous cargo space, and if the need arises, the Q8 can tow up to 7,700 pounds when properly equipped, pretty stout for this class of vehicle.
What Needs Improvement
Driver assist systems reserved for higher trims: You’d think that since this is the more expensive version, all driver assist systems would be standard. Sadly, you’d be wrong. If you want more than just automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning, look for SQ8 models in the Prestige trim, which include adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist.
Shop with your budget in mind
Ratings & reliability
Audi SQ8 features and specs
Premium Plus 4WD/AWD 4D Sport Utility
Standard Features
- 20 Inch Plus Wheels
- 4WD/AWD
- A/C Seat(s)
- ABS Brakes
- Adjustable Suspension
- Air Conditioning
- Alloy Wheels
- AM/FM Stereo
- Automatic Transmission
- Auxiliary Audio Input
- Bang & Olufsen Audio
- Blind Spot Monitor
- Bluetooth Technology
- Cruise Control
- Front Seat Heaters
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Lane Departure Warning
- Leather Seats
- Memory Seat(s)
- Navigation System
- Overhead Airbags
- Panoramic Sunroof
- Parking Sensors
- Power Hatch/Deck Lid
- Power Locks
- Power Mirrors
- Power Seat(s)
- Power Windows
- Rear Air Conditioning
- Rear Defroster
- Rear View Camera
- Side Airbags
- Smart Key
- Traction Control
- Turbo Charged Engine
- Apple CarPlay
- Automated Cruise Control
- Full Roof Rack
- Rear Seat Heaters
- Rear Sunshade
- Satellite Radio Ready
- Seat Massagers
- Tow Hitch
Drive Wheels
All Wheel (4WD/AWD)
Engine size
4.0L
Horsepower
500
Torque (ft-lbs)
568
Engine type
Turbo Gas
Fuel capacity
22.5
Wheelbase
117.9"
Overall length
196.6"
Width
78.5"
Height
67.2"
Leg room
F 41.6"/R 40.2"
Head room
F 37.1"/R 38.1"
Front tires
P285/45HR21
Rear tires
P285/45HR21
Seating capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic
2021 Audi SQ8 FAQ
The 2021 Audi SQ8 is available in multiple trims, each with its own estimated fuel economy, here are the EPA estimates for each trim:
- Premium Plus: 15 MPG City and 21 MPG Highway
- Prestige: 15 MPG City and 21 MPG Highway
The 2021 Audi SQ8 has received an average 5.0 out of 5 stars from our customers. If you're in the market for a 2021 Audi SQ8, check out reviews from customers just like you. 2021 Audi SQ8 Reviews.
Here is what's new for the 2021 Audi SQ8:
- Automated Parking
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