What are the prices for the Audi SQ8 TFSI?

The Audi SQ8 TFSI is available at a starting price of $168,800, excluding on-road expenses.

This makes it more than $50,000 more affordable than its RSQ8 flagship sibling, priced at $220,600.

To provide a comparison, the Porsche Cayenne Coupe GTS, which is equipped with a 338kW/620Nm version of the SQ8 TFSI's V8 engine, has an initial price tag of $210,400, excluding on-road costs.

What’s under the bonnet? 

A significant (and the only) modification has been implemented under the hood. The powerful 4.0-litre diesel V8 engine has been globally phased out and replaced with a 4.0-litre petrol V8.

The twin-turbocharged TFSI unit delivers 373kW of power and 770Nm of torque. It's paired with an eight-speed 'tiptronic' automatic transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive featuring a self-locking central differential.

Its default torque split favours the rear wheels at a 60:40 ratio, but it can channel up to 70% of torque to the front axle when it detects slippage. For a more rear-focused character, it can drive 85% of torque to the back wheels.

On the bright side, it provides 53kW more power than the old diesel variant and shaves off seven-tenths from the zero to 100km/h time, clocking in at just 4.1 seconds – an impressive feat for a vehicle weighing 2270kg (excluding driver).

Moreover, it's only three-tenths behind the top-of-the-line 441kW and 800Nm RSQ8.

It maintains the diesel variant's 3500kg braked-trailer towing capacity.

On the downside, its torque output is 130Nm lower, with the diesel's hefty 900Nm torque being reduced. It's also less fuel efficient, with a consumption of 12.2 litres per 100km on the combined cycle, compared to the diesel's 7.8L/100km.

It has a feature to deactivate one bank of cylinders while cruising at stable speeds, thus reducing highway consumption to a more reasonable 9.0L/100km. However, it's the only Q8 variant that doesn't have a 48V mild-hybrid system.

While buyers might not be overly concerned about fuel costs, they may notice the decreased range as the fuel tank capacity remains 85 litres.

How does the Audi SQ8 TFSI like to drive? 

The Audi SQ8 TFSI provides a thrilling driving experience reminiscent of high-performance SUVs, while also offering better fuel economy compared to many rivals. The petrol V8 engine gives a distinct, satisfying crackle upon ignition, reminding you of the power that lies beneath the hood. Despite its 0-100km/h sprint time of 4.1 seconds being slower than some super SUVs, the SQ8 provides an ample amount of speed for most drivers.

What sets the SQ8 apart is its smooth torque delivery and lack of turbo lag, accompanied by a delightful soundtrack and a perfect pairing with the eight-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain is one we'll likely miss as the shift to electric vehicles continues.

The ride quality is impressive. Even when the drive mode is set to sportier settings, the firm ride maintains a level of comfort while providing enhanced handling and road connection. This is due in part to the standard four-wheel steering system, which keeps the vehicle tight and responsive during cornering.

An optional Dynamic Package, priced at $10,900, brings anti-roll bars actuated by Audi's 48-volt electrical architecture. This provides even more control and stability, enabling the hefty SUV to handle more like a sporty midsize station wagon.

Of course, such spirited driving may lead to quicker tire wear – something to consider if you plan on regularly pushing the SQ8 to its limits. But, as the saying goes, if you can afford a high-performance SUV, you should also be able to afford regular maintenance and upkeeps, such as replacing the tires.

The standard adaptively-damped air suspension provides a level ride and impressive bump absorption. However, it's worth noting that the optional 22-inch wheel upgrade may not be necessary for everyone – the standard 21-inch wheels should provide adequate performance and comfort.

In sum, the SQ8 offers an engaging driving experience whether you're pushing it on a mountain pass or simply cruising around town, demonstrating a versatility that few SUVs possess.

What is the Audi SQ8 TFSI like on the inside? 

Upon its Australian release in 2018, the Audi Q8 introduced Ingolstadt’s new interior design language, which has since been adopted by most models in the brand's lineup.

Audi interior designers are known for their restrained and understated approach. The cabin of the SQ8 showcases high-quality materials, soft touchpoints, and seamless integration of technology, all of which contribute to an atmosphere of quiet sophistication, refinement, and practicality. It does not strive for the flamboyance of a Lamborghini or the opulence of a Bentley Bentayga. Rather, its subtle interior treatment gives a sense that your investment has been well spent.

As expected for an SUV of this caliber, the second row is quite spacious for adults. Comfortably seating four—or five if necessary, though the middle seat is somewhat firmer and constrained by the SQ8’s transmission tunnel—on a long trip is easily achievable. For additional convenience, rear-seat passengers have separate climate controls to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Key differentiating features between the SQ8 and SQ7 are the lack of a third row and the SQ8's sloping roofline.

Despite being a category above the SQ7, the SQ8 actually has a marginally smaller cargo area. However, the difference is minor: 605L versus the SQ7's 617L, which expands to 1755L (against the SQ7’s 1890L) when the second row is folded in a 40:20:40 arrangement.

Both the SQ7 and SQ8 include a space-saver spare wheel under the boot floor.

While some may miss the intuitive rotary dials for controlling the infotainment system from earlier Audi models, the contemporary MMI software is user-friendly and features large, easy-to-tap buttons. Many drivers may opt to use their smartphone interface, with wireless Apple CarPlay connection being fast, reliable, and consistent.

The SQ8 comes standard with a crisp Bang and Olufsen premium stereo. While it may require some adjustment of the EQ and surround-sound settings to optimize performance, once finely tuned, the system delivers impressive audio quality for music and podcasts.

Remarkably, even with its 22-inch wheels and large brakes, the SQ8 manages to accommodate a collapsible spare wheel under its boot floor, offering additional peace of mind for long-distance or rural drives.

Is the Audi SQ8 TFSI safe? 

The standard Audi Q8 also boasts a five-star ANCAP safety rating based on tests conducted in 2019, but this rating doesn't extend to the SQ8 – not because it performed worse, but simply because it wasn't tested.

Standard safety equipment includes:

Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)

City, Interurban speeds

Pedestrian, Cyclist detection

Junction assist

AEB in reverse

Lane departure warning

Lane keep assist

Blind-spot monitoring

Rear cross-traffic assist

Adaptive drive assist

Adaptive cruise control with stop/go

Distance indicator

Traffic jam assist

Lane guidance assist

Collision avoidance assist (evasive steer)

High-beam assist

360-degree camera system

Front and rear parking sensors

Exit warning system

8 airbags incl. rear-side for 2nd row

How much does the Audi SQ8 TFSI cost to run? 

The five-year servicing plan for the SQ8, priced at $4100, provides peace of mind for the maintenance of your vehicle. If you plan to keep the car beyond this period, there's the option to extend the servicing and roadside assistance for an additional four years. This is a worthwhile consideration for long-term ownership.

The transition from the SQ8 TDI diesel to this model has seen an improvement in Audi's warranty offering. Previously, the company only offered a three-year warranty, but now it provides five years, which is a step in the right direction.

The fuel economy claim appears to be quite accurate. During a launch event drive, which typically involves more spirited driving, the vehicle averaged 12.3L/100km. This suggests that under normal driving conditions, it could potentially deliver even better fuel efficiency. However, as always, real-world fuel consumption can vary based on numerous factors such as driving style, driving conditions, and the type of journey.

Yeecar’s Take on the Audi SQ8 TFSI 

The SQ8 indeed makes an enticing farewell to Audi's era of V8-powered sports SUVs. As the automaker embraces an all-electric future, the SQ8 provides a unique blend of turbo-V8 exhilaration, an impressive soundtrack, and unexpectedly efficient fuel economy.

Nonetheless, given the gradual increase in petrol prices and Audi's growing selection of electric SUVs – including the power-comparable 370kW SQ8 E-tron model – the life span of the V8 SQ8 appears to be nearing its end.

For those who appreciate the distinct appeal of this vehicle, there are even more reasons to consider it. The SQ8 TFSI is a large, robust, stable, and practical coupe-SUV that is, to our eyes, significantly more attractive than competitors such as the AMG GLE53 coupe and BMW X6 M50i.

The 2023 Audi SQ8 certainly presents an intriguing prospect. With a price tag around $170K before options and on-road costs, it is undoubtedly a substantial investment for an SUV, even one as performance-oriented as the SQ8.

However, it manages to undercut its own RS Q8 sibling by roughly $50K and its VW-group competitors by even more.

While some may criticize its refined and sophisticated demeanor as being "too quiet, too boring, too Audi," the market offers an array of high-performance super SUVs that cater to these tastes, trading their money for a brash, loud, in-your-face motoring experience.

For the rest, the Audi SQ8 offers more than enough. It suits those who prefer subtlety over showiness, delivering powerful performance in an understated package. If I were to choose, I'd go for the Dragon Orange.