The Audi Q8 e-tron represents the pinnacle of Audi’s electric vehicle (EV) lineup, blending cutting-edge technology with the brand’s signature luxury and performance. Launched as a facelift of the original Audi e-tron in 2023, the Q8 e-tron carries forward the legacy of its predecessor while introducing significant upgrades in range, design, and features. This all-electric luxury SUV is available in two distinct body styles: the traditional SUV and the sleeker Sportback variant, catering to diverse tastes in the premium EV market. With its dual-motor setup, advanced driver assistance systems, and a tech-loaded cabin, the Q8 e-tron is designed to appeal to buyers seeking a seamless transition from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles to electric mobility without compromising on comfort or driving dynamics.
Audi has positioned the Q8 e-tron as a flagship model in its electrification strategy, aligning with the global shift toward sustainable transportation. The vehicle boasts an impressive range of up to 600 km (WLTP), depending on the variant, making it a practical choice for both urban commutes and long-distance journeys. Its sophisticated design, marked by a redesigned front grille and sleek LED lighting, reflects Audi’s commitment to combining aesthetics with functionality. Inside, the Q8 e-tron offers a futuristic cabin with premium materials, a tri-screen setup, and a host of luxury features like ventilated seats and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. Competing directly with the likes of the BMW iX, Mercedes-Benz EQC, and Jaguar I-Pace, the Audi Q8 e-tron stands out as a versatile and luxurious option in the burgeoning electric SUV segment.
This detailed product overview will delve into the technical specifications, available variants, pricing across major metro cities in India, and an in-depth analysis of the car’s features, performance, and competitive positioning. Whether you’re an EV enthusiast or a luxury car buyer, the Audi Q8 e-tron promises to deliver an exhilarating yet refined driving experience.
Technical Specifications
Below is a comprehensive table of the technical specifications for the Audi Q8 e-tron, compiled from reliable sources such as CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale. These specifications cover the key aspects of the vehicle, including its powertrain, dimensions, battery, and safety features.
| Specification | Q8 e-tron 50 Quattro | Q8 e-tron 55 Quattro | Q8 Sportback e-tron 50 Quattro | Q8 Sportback e-tron 55 Quattro |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Dual Electric Motors, AWD | Dual Electric Motors, AWD | Dual Electric Motors, AWD | Dual Electric Motors, AWD |
| Battery Capacity | 95 kWh | 114 kWh | 95 kWh | 114 kWh |
| Max Power | 335.25 bhp (340 PS) | 402.3 bhp (408 PS) | 335.25 bhp (340 PS) | 402.3 bhp (408 PS) |
| Max Torque | 664 Nm | 664 Nm | 664 Nm | 664 Nm |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Automatic | Single-Speed Automatic | Single-Speed Automatic | Single-Speed Automatic |
| Range (WLTP) | 491-505 km | 582-600 km | 505 km | 600 km |
| Top Speed | 200 kmph | 200 kmph | 200 kmph | 200 kmph |
| 0-100 kmph | 6.0 seconds | 5.6 seconds | 6.0 seconds | 5.6 seconds |
| Charging Time (170 kW DC) | 10-80% in 31 minutes | 10-80% in 31 minutes | 10-80% in 31 minutes | 10-80% in 31 minutes |
| Length | 4915 mm | 4915 mm | 4915 mm | 4915 mm |
| Width | 1976 mm | 1976 mm | 1976 mm | 1976 mm |
| Height | 1646 mm (SUV) | 1646 mm (SUV) | 1632 mm (Sportback) | 1632 mm (Sportback) |
| Wheelbase | 2928 mm | 2928 mm | 2928 mm | 2928 mm |
| Ground Clearance | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified |
| Boot Space | 505 L | 505 L | 505 L | 505 L |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Suspension | Adaptive Air Suspension | Adaptive Air Suspension | Adaptive Air Suspension | Adaptive Air Suspension |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | Disc/Disc | Disc/Disc | Disc/Disc | Disc/Disc |
| Tyres | 255/50 R20 (standard) | 255/50 R20 (standard) | 255/50 R20 (standard) | 255/50 R20 (standard) |
| Safety Features | 8 Airbags, ABS, ADAS, TPMS, 360° Camera | 8 Airbags, ABS, ADAS, TPMS, 360° Camera | 8 Airbags, ABS, ADAS, TPMS, 360° Camera | 8 Airbags, ABS, ADAS, TPMS, 360° Camera |
Note: Specifications may vary slightly based on region and updates from Audi. The range figures are WLTP-certified and may differ in real-world conditions.
Variants
The Audi Q8 e-tron is offered in two primary variants, each available in both SUV and Sportback body styles. Below is a table summarizing the variants and their key differences.
| Variant | Body Style | Battery Capacity | Power Output | Range (WLTP) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Q8 e-tron 50 Quattro | SUV | 95 kWh | 340 PS | 491-505 km | Base model, dual motors, premium interior |
| Q8 e-tron 55 Quattro | SUV | 114 kWh | 408 PS | 582-600 km | Higher power, extended range, advanced tech |
| Q8 Sportback e-tron 50 Quattro | Sportback | 95 kWh | 340 PS | 505 km | Sleeker design, same power as 50 Quattro SUV |
| Q8 Sportback e-tron 55 Quattro | Sportback | 114 kWh | 408 PS | 600 km | Top-spec, coupe-like styling, maximum range |
The 50 Quattro variants serve as the entry-level options, offering a balance of performance and efficiency, while the 55 Quattro variants cater to buyers seeking enhanced power and range. The Sportback versions add a sportier aesthetic with a sloping roofline, slightly altering the height but maintaining the same core performance metrics.
Price in Metro Cities
The Audi Q8 e-tron’s pricing varies across metro cities in India due to differences in taxes, registration fees, and insurance costs. Below is a table detailing the ex-showroom prices and approximate on-road prices in key metro cities as of March 2025, sourced from CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale.
| City | Variant | Ex-Showroom Price (₹) | On-Road Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | Q8 e-tron 50 Quattro | 1.15 Cr | 1.20-1.25 Cr |
| Q8 e-tron 55 Quattro | 1.27 Cr | 1.33-1.38 Cr | |
| Q8 Sportback e-tron 50 Quattro | 1.19 Cr | 1.25-1.30 Cr | |
| Q8 Sportback e-tron 55 Quattro | 1.32 Cr | 1.38-1.43 Cr | |
| Mumbai | Q8 e-tron 50 Quattro | 1.15 Cr | 1.28-1.33 Cr |
| Q8 e-tron 55 Quattro | 1.27 Cr | 1.40-1.45 Cr | |
| Q8 Sportback e-tron 50 Quattro | 1.19 Cr | 1.32-1.37 Cr | |
| Q8 Sportback e-tron 55 Quattro | 1.32 Cr | 1.45-1.50 Cr | |
| Bangalore | Q8 e-tron 50 Quattro | 1.15 Cr | 1.36-1.41 Cr |
| Q8 e-tron 55 Quattro | 1.27 Cr | 1.42-1.47 Cr | |
| Q8 Sportback e-tron 50 Quattro | 1.19 Cr | 1.40-1.45 Cr | |
| Q8 Sportback e-tron 55 Quattro | 1.32 Cr | 1.47-1.52 Cr | |
| Chennai | Q8 e-tron 50 Quattro | 1.15 Cr | 1.30-1.35 Cr |
| Q8 e-tron 55 Quattro | 1.27 Cr | 1.42-1.47 Cr | |
| Q8 Sportback e-tron 50 Quattro | 1.19 Cr | 1.34-1.39 Cr | |
| Q8 Sportback e-tron 55 Quattro | 1.32 Cr | 1.47-1.52 Cr | |
| Kolkata | Q8 e-tron 50 Quattro | 1.15 Cr | 1.25-1.30 Cr |
| Q8 e-tron 55 Quattro | 1.27 Cr | 1.37-1.42 Cr | |
| Q8 Sportback e-tron 50 Quattro | 1.19 Cr | 1.29-1.34 Cr | |
| Q8 Sportback e-tron 55 Quattro | 1.32 Cr | 1.42-1.47 Cr |
Note: On-road prices include RTO, insurance, and other charges, which may vary based on dealership offers and additional accessories.
About the Audi Q8 e-tron
Design and Exterior
The Audi Q8 e-tron’s exterior design is a harmonious blend of elegance and aggression, staying true to Audi’s design philosophy while incorporating modern EV-specific elements. The front fascia features a redesigned single-frame grille in black, flanked by sharp LED headlamps and a new set of LED DRLs. A subtle light bar above the grille adds a futuristic touch, while the updated Audi monochrome 2D logo enhances its premium appeal. The SUV’s aerodynamic profile, with a drag coefficient of 0.29, contributes to its efficiency, making it one of the sleekest in its class. The Sportback variant, with its coupe-like roofline, offers a sportier stance, appealing to buyers who prioritize style over outright utility.
The Q8 e-tron is available in nine color options, including Magnet Gray, Chronos Gray Metallic, Glacier White Metallic, and Mythos Black Metallic, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicle. The 20-inch alloy wheels (upgradable to 21-inch) complement its robust stance, while the adaptive air suspension adjusts the ride height for optimal aerodynamics and comfort. Charging ports on both sides of the vehicle ensure convenience, eliminating the need to maneuver cables awkwardly. Overall, the Q8 e-tron’s exterior strikes a balance between sophistication and practicality, making it a standout in the luxury EV segment.
Interior and Features
Step inside the Audi Q8 e-tron, and you’re greeted by a cabin that epitomizes luxury and technology. The interior is dominated by a tri-screen setup: a 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit digital driver’s display, a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and an 8.6-inch touchscreen below it for climate controls. This setup is intuitive and responsive, offering seamless access to navigation, media, and vehicle settings. The cabin is adorned with premium materials like leather upholstery, ambient lighting with 30 color options, and a panoramic sunroof that enhances the sense of space.
The Q8 e-tron is packed with luxury features, including power-adjustable, ventilated front seats with a massage function, a 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system, and four-zone climate control. The rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom, though the Sportback’s sloping roofline slightly reduces headspace compared to the SUV. With a boot space of 505 liters, expandable by folding the rear seats, the Q8 e-tron is practical for families and long trips. Additional conveniences like wireless charging, a 360-degree camera, and park assist further elevate the driving experience.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
The Audi Q8 e-tron’s performance is driven by its dual-motor setup, delivering power to all four wheels via Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system. The 50 Quattro variant produces 340 PS and 664 Nm of torque, accelerating from 0-100 kmph in 6.0 seconds, while the 55 Quattro ups the ante with 408 PS, achieving the same sprint in 5.6 seconds. Both variants are capped at a top speed of 200 kmph, ensuring a balance between performance and efficiency. The instant torque delivery, a hallmark of electric motors, provides exhilarating acceleration, making the Q8 e-tron feel nimble despite its 2.5-tonne weight.
The adaptive air suspension plays a crucial role in its driving dynamics, offering a plush ride in Comfort mode and a firmer setup in Dynamic mode for spirited driving. The suspension also adjusts ride height automatically, optimizing aerodynamics and handling. While the Q8 e-tron isn’t as agile as some rivals like the Jaguar I-Pace, its composed handling and minimal body roll make it a confident corner-carver. The regenerative braking system, adjustable via steering wheel paddles, recovers energy efficiently, though it lacks the one-pedal driving capability found in some EVs.
Battery, Range, and Charging
The Q8 e-tron offers two battery options: a 95 kWh pack in the 50 Quattro variants and a 114 kWh pack in the 55 Quattro variants. The WLTP-claimed range varies accordingly, with the 50 Quattro delivering 491-505 km and the 55 Quattro extending up to 582-600 km. Real-world figures may be lower (around 375-450 km), depending on driving conditions, temperature, and style, but the Q8 e-tron remains competitive in its class. The larger battery and improved efficiency over its predecessor (the pre-facelift e-tron) make it a strong contender for long-distance travel.
Charging is a highlight, with support for 170 kW DC fast charging, allowing the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in just 31 minutes. For home charging, an 11 kW AC charger takes around 9-12 hours for a full charge, depending on the battery size. Audi’s collaboration with charging networks in India, such as the Mumbai e-tron hub, enhances accessibility for owners. The Q8 e-tron also features a recuperation system that recovers energy during coasting and braking, further boosting efficiency.
Safety and Reliability
Safety is a priority in the Q8 e-tron, with a 5-star Euro NCAP rating inherited from its pre-facelift version. It comes equipped with 8 airbags, ABS with EBD, a 360-degree camera, and a suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and autonomous emergency braking. Additional features like a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and ISOFIX child seat anchors ensure comprehensive protection. Audi’s build quality and reliability further enhance its appeal, though long-term EV ownership costs, such as battery maintenance, remain a consideration.
Competitors and Market Positioning
The Audi Q8 e-tron operates in a fiercely competitive segment, facing off against the BMW iX, Mercedes-Benz EQC, Jaguar I-Pace, and Volvo EX90. The BMW iX, priced between ₹1.13 Cr and ₹1.40 Cr, offers a futuristic design and a range of up to 635 km (WLTP), outpacing the Q8 e-tron in efficiency and outright performance (0-100 kmph in 4.6 seconds for the xDrive50). However, the iX’s polarizing styling may not appeal to all, giving the Q8 e-tron an edge in traditional luxury appeal.
The Mercedes-Benz EQC, priced around ₹1.00 Cr, delivers a range of 414 km (WLTP) and a more subdued performance (408 PS, 0-100 kmph in 5.1 seconds). It excels in ride comfort but lacks the Q8 e-tron’s range and tech-forward cabin. The Jaguar I-Pace, starting at ₹1.06 Cr, is a sportier option with a 470 km range and a quicker 4.8-second 0-100 kmph time, appealing to driving enthusiasts. However, its interior space and feature set lag behind the Q8 e-tron. The Volvo EX90, though not yet widely available in India, promises a 600 km range and advanced safety tech, posing a future threat.
The Q8 e-tron’s strengths lie in its balanced approach: a luxurious interior, competitive range, and a familiar SUV feel that eases the transition for ICE buyers. Its pricing, starting at ₹1.15 Cr, positions it as a premium yet accessible option compared to the iX, while its design and brand cachet give it an edge over the EQC and I-Pace.
Ownership Experience and Practicality
Owning an Audi Q8 e-tron in India comes with both perks and challenges. The vehicle’s 505-liter boot space and spacious cabin make it practical for families, while features like fast charging and a towing capacity of 4000 pounds (when equipped) add versatility. Audi’s expanding charging infrastructure, including free charging for e-tron owners at certain hubs until March 2024, mitigates range anxiety in metro areas. However, the limited EV charging network outside cities and high upfront costs may deter some buyers.
Maintenance is relatively low compared to ICE vehicles, with fewer moving parts, but battery replacement costs could be significant over time. Audi’s service network in India is robust, ensuring reliable support, though specialized EV expertise may still be evolving. For buyers in metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, where EV adoption is growing, the Q8 e-tron offers a compelling blend of luxury and sustainability.
Final Thoughts!
The Audi Q8 e-tron is a masterful execution of luxury, performance, and electric efficiency, making it a standout in the premium EV SUV market. With its dual-motor powertrain, impressive range, and tech-laden interior, it caters to buyers seeking a sophisticated yet practical electric vehicle. While it faces stiff competition from the BMW iX, Mercedes-Benz EQC, and Jaguar I-Pace, the Q8 e-tron’s blend of traditional Audi design, advanced features, and competitive pricing (starting at ₹1.15 Cr) ensures it holds its own. Whether you opt for the SUV or the Sportback, the Q8 e-tron delivers a driving experience that’s both exhilarating and refined, solidifying Audi’s position at the forefront of the EV revolution.
