2019 Audi Q8

Audi Q8 and SQ8 get fresh look, new tech, and they’re heading to SA in 2024

The flagship model of the Audi Q family, the Q8, has gone for cosmetic surgery, with improvements to the design and technology offering.

Up front is a new single frame grille with an octagon design and vertical inlays. The inlays are arranged in a teardrop shape in the base version, and an L shape in the higher end S Line exterior package as well as the flagship SQ8 TFSI.

The redesigned headlights optionally feature HD Matrix LED technology, an additional laser light and digital daytime-running lights. Fitted as standard are high-intensity LED headlights. Available for the first time in the Q8 are digital OLED taillights which feature four digital light signatures in conjunction with the headlights.

The S Line exterior package is now closer in appearance to the SQ8 TFSI thanks to its clearly accentuated side air intakes in the front bumper. All Q8 models now boast an exhaust system with premium-quality, visually appealing tailpipes.

 
New 2024 Audi SQ8 makes public debut at Qatar motor show

Redesign and trick new lights are part of the refresh for Audi’s flagship SUV

The updated Audi Q8 has made its public debut in performance-focused SQ8 guise at the Geneva International Motor Show Qatar, ahead of sales beginning later this month.

Audi’s Q8 flagship SUV has gained wide-ranging technology upgrades, an improvement in perceived quality and a simpler exterior design.

 
Review: Audi Q8

Audi SQ8 Fast Facts
Engine: 4,0-litre, turbocharged V8, petrol
Power: 373 kW
Torque: 770 N.m
Fuel consumption: 12,0 L/100 km
Seat capacity: Five seats
Luggage space: 605 L
Service plan/warranty: TBC
Price: TBC

Verdict

The Audi Q8 boasts undoubted X Factor. It offers a striking design, luxurious interior, advanced technology and engine options to satisfy any customer. The SQ8, in particular, makes a strong argument on the performance side of things. Sporty, practical, engaging, fun, spirited, comfortable. It ticks all the right boxes.

 
Audi Q8 (2024) International Launch Review

Summary

Our reviews and long-term assessment of the pre-facelift Q8 highlighted what an accomplished offering this model is; Audi didn’t need to overhaul the Q8 substantially, so this mild update is quite appropriate.

Whereas the Ingolstadt-based brand’s Q7 may not be the most attention-grabbing premium SUV (some may suggest it lives in the shadows of its BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE countrymen), its closely-related Q8 sibling is a potent but restrained foil to the BMW X6 and Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe.

We look forward to giving the SA-spec facelifted Audi Q8 a thorough assessment when the model lands in the Republic towards the middle of next year; the all-electric Q8 e-tron is eagerly awaited too.

 
Audi Q8 (2024) Price & Specs

The facelifted Audi Q8 has arrived in South Africa, again available in both petrol and diesel flavours (but now in new Platinum Edition and Black Edition form, too)…

The facelifted Audi Q8 has quietly touched down in South Africa, with the local line-up expanding from 2 to 4 derivatives (excluding Audi Sport wares, that is) thanks to the launch of fresh Platinum Edition and Black Edition variants.

As before, Ingolstadt’s largest coupé-style SUV is available with both petrol and diesel powertrains. The 45 TDI’s 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel motor again offers 183 kW and 600 Nm to all 4 wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the 55 TFSI’s turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 (still featuring a 48V mild-hybrid system and an 8-speed auto) likewise generates an unchanged 250 kW and 500 Nm.

That said, it’s interesting to note the 45 TDI’s listed 0-100 kph time slows by a tenth to 7.1 seconds, while the 55 TFSI’s improves by 3-tenths to 5.6 seconds. In addition, the oil-burning derivative’s maximum speed increases slightly to 226 kph, while the petrol variant again tops out at 250 kph.

So, how much does the facelifted Audi Q8 cost in Mzansi? Well, thanks to a heads-up from the ever-resourceful folks over at duoporta.com, we know the Q8 45 TDI Platinum Edition is priced from R1 968 700, while the Q8 55 TFSI Platinum Edition kicks off at R2 015 400.

How much does the facelifted Audi Q8 cost in SA?

Audi Q8 45 TDI Platinum Edition – R1 968 700

Audi Q8 45 TDI Black Edition – R2 011 700

Audi Q8 55 TFSI Platinum Edition – R2 015 400

Audi Q8 55 TFSI Black Edition – R2 058 400

The prices above include Audi’s 1-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.

 
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