It is troublesome to not get excited a couple of automotive just like the 2023 Audi SQ8. Audi’s execution is just about flawless right here, and there is not a single space the place the SQ8 feels missing. In reality, the mid-level Q8 variant is so wonderful it makes us query why some consumers really feel the necessity to spend greater than twice as a lot on a Bentley Bentayga or a Lamborghini Urus. Certain, each of these SUVs supply superior efficiency and extra prestigious badges, however the hole is smaller than you would possibly count on.

After spending per week within the SQ8 – and having already executed the identical within the range-topping RS Q8 – we’re satisfied that something above the S mannequin is a frivolous buy. Here is why we might advocate the SUV with 4 rings on the entrance over the Flying B and the Raging Bull.

Good Styling?

I can not recall the final time I drove a luxurious SUV and thought, “This design is just about good; there’s nothing I would do to alter it.” The Q8 relies on the bigger Q7, however Audi did not go for a similar controversial coupe styling adopted by rivals just like the BMW X6 and Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe. Not solely is the SQ8 extra typical than its German rivals, however we expect the styling is extra cohesive than its Bentley and Lamborghini platform stablemates.

Audi chiseled away a lot of the Q7’s extra bulbous proportions, forsaking a muscular SUV that appears each elegant and aggressive in S guise. Our tester wore a German Rainbow shade of Florett Silver, however Audi does supply just a few enjoyable colours, resembling Dragon Orange, Matador Pink, and Navarra Blue. An out there Black Optic Package deal ($2,200) provides distinctive 22-inch wheels and different black accents, together with the grille encompass. Some consumers might want the Q8’s attribute silver grille define, which is very pronounced with a bolder shade, however the all-black look is extra in-line with different Audi fashions.

The Unimaginable MLB Platform

Prior to now, now we have acknowledged that the Volkswagen Touareg is one of the best SUV in fashionable historical past. That is as a result of it went on to type the premise for the Bentley Bentayga, Lamborghini Urus, and Porsche Cayenne, fashions that introduced unparalleled monetary success to their respective manufacturers. Like these aforementioned SUVs, the SQ8 rides on VW Group’s MLB structure, which is a shared modular building for longitudinal, front-engined autos. Merely put, this Audi shares a lot of its core construction with far costlier SUVs.

In reality, the SQ8 makes use of the identical 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine discovered underneath the hood of Bentley, Porsche, and even Lamborghini fashions. It produces 500 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque on this utility, good for a 0-60 mph time of simply 4.3 seconds. We all know this engine is able to extra energy within the Urus and RS Q8, however the SQ8 by no means feels underpowered.

A Softer Bull

The SQ8 displays Audi’s characteristically gentle steering. Even in Dynamic mode, there is not a ton of really feel by the wheel, however there’s sufficient to encourage confidence when driving rapidly. Even at round 5,300 kilos, it feels spry. Adaptive air suspension gives a soft journey, even on the S mannequin, with the power to boost or decrease the journey peak for numerous functions. Our one suggestion is to get the Sport Package deal for $5,900. It is a dear add-on, nevertheless it contains lively roll stabilization (powered by the mild-hybrid system) that fixes the automotive’s physique motion whereas cornering. With out it, the SQ8 does not really feel notably sharp when pitched right into a bend.

That is removed from the sportiest SUV we have ever pushed, nevertheless it makes no sacrifices in consolation in pursuit of efficiency. Patrons who like just a little growl from the engine however nonetheless desire a cloud-like driving expertise will benefit from the SQ8. Consider it like a Lamborghini Urus, however softer (and method inexpensive).

No Skimping Inside

Audi might not carry the identical status as Bentley or Porsche, nevertheless it’s not as if the SQ8 skimps on the inside. A Luxurious Package deal ($4,350) provides an Alcantara headline, prolonged leather-based on the doorways, and seat massaging. Talking of these seats, our tester got here outfitted with vibrant Arras Pink leather-based that feels on par with the stuff you’d discover in a Bentley or Lambo. Throw in some perforated leather-based on the steering wheel, carbon fiber on the sprint, and premium steel on the controls, and the SQ8 punches nicely above its value by way of inside high quality.

The onboard know-how is a robust level, with twin touchscreens which might be straightforward to function and not using a steep studying curve. An out there Bang & Olufsen Superior Sound System ($5,000) makes the many of the infotainment system with 23 audio system and 1,920 watts.

No Sacrifice For Practicality

As a result of the SQ8 does not goal for the SUV Coupe look, it manages to be extra sensible than its rivals. The rear cargo space homes 30.5 cubic ft of house (60.7 cubic ft with the seats folded), simply besting the X6 and GLE Coupe. Our solely criticism is that Audi did not put a rear seat launch within the trunk, which means it’s important to stroll to the again seat to be able to drop them down. These rear seats slide and recline, offering as much as 40.2 inches of legroom, which is, you guessed it, greater than the BMW or Merc.

A Funds Bentley

There is a purpose why we referred to as the Audi SQ8 a price range Bentley; it provides lots of the identical options and content material for as much as half the worth. Pricing for the 2023 SQ8 Premium Plus begins at $95,500, which matches as much as $101,500 for the extra well-equipped Status. As examined, our SQ8 was just below $115,000, which continues to be far lower than a Bentley Bentayga V8 (from $192k) or Lamborghini Urus (upwards of $225k).

If you happen to aren’t involved with exhibiting off, the SQ8 gives almost the identical expertise present in far pricier SUVs. Other than a lacking Sport Package deal and no seat launch buttons within the trunk, we had hassle discovering something unfavorable to say about it. The SQ8 is just about good.