Let’s get the model designation clear from the outset before we get into the more exciting aspects of the brand’s latest all-electric offering – the Audi Q8 e-tron. The Audi electric range began with the international introduction of the e-tron which arrived in Australia in 2020, that range is now expanding at such a rate that ‘e-tron’ is simply not enough to differentiate between the models.

Indeed, with an electric portfolio that will number 20 models and climbing come 2026, identifying which of the brand’s all-electric offerings is which needs clear and logical designation.

With what is essentially the second-generation of the Audi e-tron, the designation Q8 e-tron has been applied, signifying the place this all-electric SUV model holds within the range. So, just as the Q8 and other Q8 models represent the pinnacle of the brand’s luxury SUV range with international combustion engines (ICE), the Q8 e-tron likewise represents the top-of-the-line model within the electric SUV ranks. This means that in the future, electric models and their place within the model range will be easily identified using the time-honoured Audi model designations with the addition of e-tron.

From a visual perspective, the model designation will appear on the B-pillar along with an Audi logo for ease of identification, but there is no doubt from the distinctive styling treatment front and rear that these models are from the ‘e-tron’ family with their distinctive front grille treatment, badging and other design elements specific to the e-tron range.

The Q8 e-tron and Q8 Sportback e-tron represent the evolution of the brand’s electrification. The changes are evident from the first glance with revised styling which is not only sharper than that of the original e-tron but also more aerodynamic as part of an overall improvement in vehicle range and aesthetics. In real terms this means a reduction of the drag coefficient from 0.26 to 0.24 cd for the Q8 Sportback e-tron and from 0.28 to 0.27 cd for the Q8 e-tron.

Digital Matrix LED headlights are available as an option further adding to the vehicle’s sharp appearance as well as providing state-of-the-art lighting, while the treatment of the front grille is both sympathetic to the Audi design language but obviously from the electric side of the model family. It has a sporty dynamic that takes the idea of a honeycomb finish and gives it a new interpretation especially for this all-electric model.

Vehicle lighting forms a visual part of there new styling as well, with a continuous bar of light linking the two headlights for a distinctive light signature which immediately identifies this model even from a distance. 

The overall effect of the styling is unashamedly sporty regardless of the model. Whether SUV or Sportback the profiles accentuate the performance nature of the Q8 e-tron and this promise is more than backed up with greater performance, range and handling dynamics.

The Q8 e-tron models, like their ICE cousins, represent the pinnacle in terms of comfort, luxurious appointment and the most advanced technology available. Although at time of writing, exact details, specification and launch dates had not been confirmed for Australia, three different drivetrains have been announced at the model’s international launch* with a Q8 50 e-tron entry model, a Q8 55 e-tron and an SQ8 e-tron – all available in both SUV and Sportback.

Driven using two motors, the Q8 50 e-trons generate 250kW in boost mode and 664Nm of torque with up to 491km of range from the SUV and up to 505 km for the Sportback. The Audi Q8 55 e-tron likewise uses two motors but increase that output to 300kW in boost mode and 664Nm of torque, with range of 582km for the SUV and up to 600km for the Sportback. Top-of-the-range, the SQ8 e-tron models, again with three drive motors, deliver performance of 370kW and a stonking 973Nm of torque with up to 494km of range for the SUV and up to 513km for the Sportback. 

Battery capacities also vary with an 89 net kilowatt-hour un it (95 gross kWh) for the Q8 50 e-tron and a more powerful 106 net kWh (114 gross kWh) for the two more powerful models. 

The battery charging capacity has also increased and at high-powered charging stations, the Audi Q8 50 e-tron will reach a maximum charging performance of 150kW while the maximum charging performance of the Q8 55 e-tron and SQ8 e-tron increases to up to 170 kW. 

That translates to a charge from 10 to 80 percent capacity for the larger battery of just 31 minutes, which corresponds to a range of up to 420 kilometres. Using AC charging with up to 11kW the Audi Q8 50 e-tron can completely charge in around nine hours and 15 minutes, while at 22kW it will take around four hours and 45 minutes. The larger battery’s numbers are around 11 hours and 30 minutes at 11kW and six hours at 22kW for a full charge. 

Other revisions include the asynchronous motor arrangement on the rear axle which has been modified on the Q8 e-tron with 14 coils generating the electromagnetic field, where there were previously 12. This means that the motor generates a stronger magnetic field with similar electricity input, which means more torque. 

With the SQ8 e-tron and its three-motor configuration, a 124-kW electric motor is used on the front axle while on the rear axle, there are two electric motors each with 98 kW of output that separately power a rear wheel each. This allows for a boost performance of up to 370kW and the drive torque can be distributed across both rear electric motors between both wheels within a fraction of a second. 

Delivering on both the performance potential and a ride commensurate with the Q8 e-tron’s luxury credentials is air-spring suspension which is standard equipment. This can vary the vehicle’s body height by up to 76mm depending on the driving situation, which in concert with revised progressive steering delivers a much sharper handling package all round. 

Indeed across the board, the Q8 e-tron models the agility and handling package is more driver focused, and with the increased battery capacity and motor output, make for an enhanced driving experience.

The interiors are all luxury with Audi’s trademark execution and technology incorporated for maximum driver and passenger comfort. From the huge panoramic sunroof complete with blackout sunshades, to dual-zone automatic climate control (four-zone climate control is also available with air an quality package) the finish and appointment are as you would expect from an Audi from the Q8 range.

Customers will be able to choose seating and finish options to best suit their needs, from perforated leather seats with pneumatic adjustment and massage function to a comprehensive range of inlays. Options vary from wood veneers such as grainy ash and sycamore to aluminium or, for the S line and edition S line versions, a carbon fibre finish. New additions also include light brown walnut wood and a sustainable technical material made partially from recycled PET bottles.

Indeed the level of recycled materials used throughout the Q8 e-tron models has been significantly increased with recycled materials used extensively for insulation and damping, as well as for carpeting. The decorative inlay above the display, called the Tech Layer, is available with a new anthracite-coloured technical material that’s partially composed of recycled PET bottles. With the S line equipment package, the sport seats are upholstered in synthetic leather and the microfibre material Dinamica which is made from up to 45 percent polyester fibres derived from recycled PET bottles, used textiles and fibre residue. 

The Q8 e-tron models also represent the first time that Audi has used mixed automotive plastic waste treated through a revolutionary chemical recycling process. The plastic covers for the seatbelt buckles are proof of the system’s practical application in series production of this new technology as part of Audi’s closed plastic loop.

Of course all of these recycled materials are perfectly in keeping with the high standards expected across all Audi interiors and complement the more traditional materials and finishes.

Vehicle technology is likewise at the cutting-edge with the MMI touch response system, two large high-resolution displays with their haptic and acoustic feedback replacing practically all conventional switchgear for a clean, uncluttered cabin space. The now familiar Audi virtual cockpit builds on the digital offering while voice control is of course a feature and customers will be able to option a heads-up display for even greater driver feedback.

Features such as MMI Navigation plus as well as Audi connect plus with all of the connectivity it brings to the experience will of course feature on the Q8 e-tron models, while driver assistance and safety offerings is extensive to say the least.

With up to five radar sensors, five cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors providing environmental information which is then analysed by the central driver assistance control unit, around 40 assistance can be offered on the Q8 e-tron, including a new remote park assist plus. With this system, the customers will be able to remotely manoeuvre into even tighter spots using the myAudi app on their phones. When the car is in the desired parking space, it automatically switches off, puts on the parking brake and locks the doors. When it’s time to leave the parking space, the motor is powered on through the myAudi app, then the vehicle manoeuvres out of the tight space enough for comfortable entry and you’re on your way.

In each of its guises, the Q8 e-tron represents a significant advancement of the brand’s most luxurious all-electric offering. From driving dynamics and charging capability to its luxury appointment and the fact that it furthers the whole sustainability equation, the Q8 e-tron represents another leap forward for Audi e-mobility.

*At time of writing, details of the Q8 e-tron models specific to Australia were yet to be confirmed.