Audi Q8 45 TDI quattro (2020) Review
Fast Facts:
Price: R1 573 500 before options (July 2020)
Engine: 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel
Power/Torque: 183 kW/600 Nm
Transmission: 8-speed Tiptronic
Fuel consumption: 7.8 L/100 km (claimed)
Boot capacity: 605-1 755 litres
Performance: 0-100 kph in 7 sec.
Pricing and warranty
Our test unit came with numerous extras, adding R153 570 to the value of the vehicle. Headlining the options list was the S line Platinum Package (R80 840), which included things like adaptive air suspension, S line exterior package, 22-inch wheels and red brake callipers. A trailer hitch (R17 070) was fitted, as were power-latching doors (R10 020), the latter function closes the doors softly if you didn't push them hard enough. Our Audi Q8 also came with the phone box, which includes wireless charging for mobile devices.
The Audi Q8 45TDI quattro's base price is R1 573 500, which includes a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan. Lane departure warning (R5 380), lane change assist (R9 210) and advanced tyre pressure monitoring system (R4 690) were 3 noteworthy additions to the safety package, which we'd also recommend for your consideration.
Verdict
Does the addition of a turbodiesel powertrain broaden the appeal of the Audi Q8 and, importantly, can the oil-burning 45 TDI quattro outshine its petrol-powered 55 TFSI quattro sibling? We can confidently answer: "Yes, on both counts." Granted, there's something magical about a lusty petrol V6 that likes to clear its throat, but logically, the turbodiesel motor offers significantly more talents. The benefits are numerous – the Q8 45TDI is a more refined open-road cruiser, the engine doesn't need to be worked hard to produce eye-widening acceleration and, best of all, if you drive with a measured driving style, you'll be rewarded with impressive economy. It's just a more accomplished offering.
Drawbacks? Well, there aren't many, but some are worth mentioning. We're puzzled by 45 TDI quattro's price premium over its similarly-engined Q7 sibling. Granted, the Q7 is due for a facelift before the end of 2020 (which will no doubt result in a price increase), but it's hard to justify the R400 000 difference between the derivatives. That being said, when you compare the 2 vehicles, the Q8 offers way more kerb- and road presence; many wouldn't look twice at the Q7, but the Q8 is a "limelight-stealer" of note.
And, if you demand more performance from the Q8 package, Audi South Africa has confirmed it will be introducing the potent SQ8 and RS Q8 before the end of 2020...
The Audi Q8 range has been expanded through the introduction of a turbodiesel-powered offering. While we were quite enamoured with the V6 turbopetrol derivative, a diesel version may be a smarter proposition. We spent a few days getting to know the Audi Q8 45 TDI better… We like: Potent engine...
www.cars.co.za
