Vehicle Overview
| Vehicle Segment | Full-Size Luxury SUV (Coupe-style) |
| Body Style | 5-Door SUV with Fastback Roofline |
| Release Year | 2018 (Global debut, MY2019 in some markets) |
| Trim/Variant Reviewed | Q8 55 TFSI quattro (3.0L V6) |
Key Specifications
| Engine | 3.0L Turbocharged V6 (Mild Hybrid) |
| Transmission | 8-Speed Tiptronic Automatic |
| Power Output | 340 hp @ 5,000–6,400 rpm |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1,370–4,500 rpm |
| Drivetrain | AWD (quattro) |
| Dimensions | 4,986 mm (L) × 1,995 mm (W) × 1,705 mm (H); Wheelbase: 2,995 mm |
| Weight | ~2,145 kg (Kerb) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 liters |
| Fuel Economy | ~11.4 L/100 km (combined EU) |
| Boot Space | 605 L (seats up), ~1,755 L (folded) |
Exterior Design
Audi’s boldest SUV design to date – wide stance, short overhangs, sloped rear
Massive octagonal grille, HD Matrix LED headlamps, and signature light bar taillights
Frameless doors, strong shoulder line, and aggressive wheel arches
Available with S line styling package for a sportier look
20" to 22" alloy wheels; dual exhaust outlets; panoramic sunroof standard on upper trims
Interior, Comfort & Materials
Dual touchscreen layout with haptic feedback (10.1” upper, 8.6” lower)
Clean, futuristic design with ambient lighting and contrast stitching
High-grade leather, real wood or aluminum trims, Alcantara roofliner
Spacious for 5 passengers, though no third row (unlike Q7)
Heated and ventilated front seats, massage functions available
Extremely refined cabin with excellent sound insulation (NVH)
Features & Infotainment
Audi MMI Touch Response with dual HD touchscreens
12.3” Audi Virtual Cockpit (digital instrument cluster)
Standard Apple CarPlay / Android Auto (wireless in some markets)
Natural voice commands, handwriting recognition
| Premium audio options | Bang & Olufsen 3D Sound System |
| Connected car tech | remote lock, geo-fencing, real-time traffic, OTA updates |
Safety & Ratings
Standard safety features
ABS, ESC, traction control
6+ airbags, Audi pre-sense front & basic
Blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert
| Optional | Lane departure warning, adaptive cruise, 360° camera, night vision assist |
Crash Test Ratings
| Euro NCAP | ★★★★★ (2019) |
Strong scores in adult and child safety
Top Safety Pick in some regions (IIHS – North America)
Driving Performance & Handling
0–100 km/h in ~5.9 seconds (Q8 55 TFSI) – quick for its size
Smooth power delivery thanks to mild-hybrid 48V system
Air suspension (optional) ensures a comfortable ride across surfaces
quattro AWD gives planted, confident handling in all conditions
| Drive Select modes | Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, Off-road |
Rear-wheel steering (optional) improves low-speed maneuverability
Fuel Efficiency / Range
| Rated Consumption (EU) | ~11.4 L/100 km |
| Real-World Efficiency | ~12–13 L/100 km mixed driving |
| Mild Hybrid Tech | 48V system supports coasting and engine-off scenarios |
Large 85L tank offers decent range for long drives
No full EV or plug-in hybrid version at launch (later added in later model years)
Practicality & Everyday Usability
605 L boot space, with flat load floor and power tailgate
Rear seats slide and recline; fold 40:20:40 for added flexibility
| Plenty of cabin storage | center console, door bins, wireless phone charger |
Rear parking sensors and camera standard; optional park assist
Wide door openings and comfortable ingress/egress
Family-friendly but lacks third row (unlike Q7)
Warranty & Maintenance
| Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles (USA); varies by region |
| Maintenance Intervals | Oil service every ~15,000 km |
Optional AudiCare maintenance packages
Known reliability issues minimal in early model years; software updates improved MMI response
On-Road Price & Value for Money
| Europe | Starting from ~€76,000 |
Offers great tech and refinement, but commands a premium over Q7
Worth it for buyers seeking style, presence, and exclusivity
Comparison with Rivals
| Model | Power | Seats | AWD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audi Q8 55 TFSI | 340 hp | 5 | Yes |
| BMW X6 xDrive40i | 335 hp | 5 | Yes |
| Mercedes GLE Coupe | 362 hp | 5 | Yes |
| Porsche Cayenne Coupe | 335 hp | 5 | Yes |
| Q8 excels in | Interior tech, design, ride comfort |
| Falls short in | Cargo space vs Q7, no 7-seat option |
Pros & Cons
Pros
Bold, futuristic exterior design
Top-class interior fit and finish
Advanced tech stack with dual MMI screens
Comfortable ride with optional air suspension
Strong performance and quattro grip
Cons
No third-row seating
Higher price than Q7 with similar equipment
Fuel efficiency lags behind some rivals
Overall Rating
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4.4 / 5) |
True Motion Auto has not independently road-tested this vehicle. Specifications, pricing and performance figures are compiled from manufacturer technical data and published independent tests, and are attributed where quoted. Our score reflects a structured research assessment of specifications, pricing, safety data and owner feedback for the segment — not an independent road test. Read how we review cars.
A bold and luxurious flagship SUV that delivers style, substance, and next-gen tech—though not ideal for larger families.
Final Verdict
The 2018 Audi Q8 is a head-turning flagship SUV for buyers who want cutting-edge tech, luxury refinement, and a sporty design twist. It’s ideal for those who don't need 7 seats but want an upmarket, versatile, and highly connected driving experience. A solid choice for executive drivers, tech lovers, and premium SUV shoppers.
More Audi reviews: Audi A1 Sportback Review, Audi A5 Sportback Review and Audi A7 Sportback Review.
Buyer checkpoints
| Buyer checkpoint | True Motion Auto view |
|---|---|
| Best for | Drivers wanting premium materials, image and comfort. |
| Body style | Car |
| Powertrain focus | Petrol, diesel or hybrid depending on model year and trim |
| UK ownership note | Check insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying. |
| Verdict | Worth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use. |
Frequently asked questions
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.