Driven: 2024 Audi SQ8 Makes Under-The-Radar Performance Look Good

Audi’s SUV lineup comprises nearly 20 models, these days, ranging form large three-rows to small and nimble sports utility vehicles – and those with an electric powertrain. The 2024 Audi Q8 sits above the Q7 in the Audi gas-powered SUV range, but it isn’t actually a large vehicle. Instead, it loses a row of seating and has less cargo room. What it gains is sportier, coupe-like styling. Taking that idea a step further is the SQ8, which we had the opportunity to drive for a week, recently.

Add an ‘S’ in front of any Audi model, and you’re in for a treat. Performance-focused styling, more power, and a more engaging drive experience await. One step further are the models with an RS designation, which are performance monsters that sit at the very top of the lineup and command a somewhat imposing price. If you’re looking for a two-row luxury SUV with plenty of curb appeal, lots of power, and the perfect balance between comfort and performance, then the 2024 Audi SQ8 has to be on your shortlist.

What’s New

There are no huge changes for the 2024 model year, with the biggest difference being cosmetic. The front end is updated and there are four new wheel designs along with three new exterior colors from which to choose. Lights also get an upgrade with standard Matrix-design LED headlights and digital OLED rear lights with four selectable lighting signatures. The interior gets some attention with a standard carbon twill matte inlay for the SQ8 and expanded infotainment features.

Exterior: The SUV That Thinks It’s A Coupe

There was a time when SUVs were decidedly boxy things that looked a lot like toasters. The design makes a lot of sense since these are vehicles that need to manage people and cargo. Being shaped like a giant box on wheels is logical, but it’s not the most attractive look. Over the years, SUV styling has morphed with many showing off sleeker, more rounded lines.

That evolution of style has given rise to the SUV coupe. This body style applies the sloped roofline of a coupe to the traditional SUV. The result is something that still has the versatility for people and cargo, but with a more refined look. Purists tend to take issue with the moniker, but it is fitting. This works especially well with the SQ8, matching its performance focus and hinting at the fun to be had behind the wheel of this SUV.

Interior: Sporty Luxury With A Focus On Technology

The interior of the SQ8 is luxurious with seating for five people. There are heavily bolstered front seats that hold you firmly when you’re tempted to have a little fun in the twisties, and you will be tempted. That bolstering is aggressive, but not so snug that it becomes tiresome during a long commute or on a road trip.

The rear seats comfortably accommodate three on all but the longest of drives with good legroom and headroom, although that coupe roofline does cut into headroom if you’re tall. Rear seats are supportive with enough contouring to keep them comfortable even when the drive is long.

And since this is a luxury car, there are plenty of premium amenities. The front seats are heated with eight-way power adjustability and four-way power lumbar and there’s a heated steering wheel. Leather trims are also standard with options to up the luxury including ventilated and massaging front seats and heated outboard rear seats available. It looks and feels the part of a premium SUV.

Cargo: Room For You And Your Stuff

There’s plenty of room for cargo in the SQ8 with 30.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 60.7 cubic feet behind the front seats. There’s also a low load floor, so it’s easier to stow heavy items. The air suspension even lets you lower the vehicle if you choose. Cargo room is competitive within the class and measures up against rivals including the BMW X6 and Cayenne S, but if cargo is your priority, then you might want to consider the Audi Q7. In addition to having an extra row of seats, it has more room for cargo.

*2024 Audi Q7 14.2 cubic feet behind third row

Infotainment: Digital Everything

The SQ8 has a virtual cockpit that surrounds you with screens. It might sound overwhelming, but it’s done in a way that integrates the technology into the driving experience. The driver gets a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster while infotainment consists of dual touchscreens. There’s a 10.1-inch and an 8.6-inch screen along with wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, wireless device charging, and navigation.

If you’re not a fan of touchscreens, then hopefully you’re okay with voice control because those are your two main options in the SQ8. There aren’t a lot of physical knobs and buttons, which will take a little time to get used to if you’re moving from something less tech-forward. Once you do get the hang of things, you’ll find the system easy to use with intuitive menus. There’s also a standard 17-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system with the option for a 23-speaker system for audiophiles.

Drive Impressions: The Fun Of A V8

The SQ8 comes standard with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine that delivers 500 horsepower with 568 lb-ft of torque. This is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission with standard all-wheel drive. It’s a quick SUV that responds without hesitation when you hit the gas. Getting up to highway speeds is effortless. Just make sure you don’t get carried away and remember to ease off the gas before you get yourself in trouble.

It also sounds fabulous, reminding you of why so many people are bemoaning the move to electric. The sound is not, however, intrusive. It’s just enough to let you know this is a performance SUV without rattling passengers. You just can’t get the sound of a V8 engine from an electric vehicle and that sound makes driving all the more fun. Although, if you do want to go with an electric SUV, Audi has you covered with lots of options.

The transmission shifts seamlessly as it manages that power delivery, which adds to the driving experience and the ride is well-mannered with road and wind noise kept to a minimum. The rumble of rough road surfaces is easily handled by the suspension system, keeping the ride smooth. Even broken pavement in a construction zone proved no match for the SQ8. It remained quiet and easy to manage.

It’s an absolute blast heading onto the highway, but it’s also fun when you take it on winding roads. This isn’t something that can be said of every SUV, but the handling in the SQ8 was top-notch. It stays planted with a minimal amount of body roll and solid braking with almost no nosedive. This makes tackling corners more aggressively downright fun.

Fuel Economy: The Price For Performance

There’s a lot to love about the 2024 Audi SQ8, but fuel economy is not on the list. This is a performance SUV, so you know it’s going to be on the thirsty side. It gets an EPA-estimated 15 mpg in the city, 21 mpg on the highway, and 17 mpg combined. That’s going to cost you on a road trip.

Stepping down to the Q8 improves the numbers only slightly to 17/23/19 city/highway/combined. That’ll help on the family road trip, but you’ll have to be content with its less powerful 6-cylinder engine. We’re not sure if it’s worth the savings. Though not great fuel economy, the SQ8 is inline with competition including the BMW X6 and Porsche Cayenne S.

Pricing And Verdict : A Complete Luxury And Performance Package

The 2024 Audi SQ8 is available in just two trims. The Premium Plus starts at $96,600 while the Prestige takes a jump to $103,600, not including $1,195 destination. That’s definitely in luxury car territory, but we think it’s worth the price. The SQ8 delivers on two fronts: It’s a luxury SUV with elegant style and a long list of standard amenities, and it’s a performance SUV that offers a spirited drive.

It’s this balance that makes the SQ8 a great choice. Whether simply cruising down the highway on a road trip, having a little fun on winding country roads, or carrying everything you need for a weekend adventure, the 2024 Audi SQ8 delivers.