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2020 Audi SQ8: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The big change for 2020 is the Audi SQ8’s U.S. debut as the V8-powered performance version of the Q8. This is the SQ8’s first U.S. model year, not an update to an earlier U.S. SQ8.
About the 2020 Audi SQ8
1st-generation SQ8 (Q8/SQ8 4M), first U.S. model year
The SQ8 is Audi’s coupe-roof midsize luxury performance SUV: a five-seat utility vehicle that mixes dramatic styling and everyday cargo space with S-model V8 speed. Audi’s own messaging centers on balancing SUV usefulness, emotional design, and high-performance character. Against rivals, the SQ8’s identity is a blend of strong straight-line pace, standard chassis hardware that makes a large SUV feel smaller, and a very tech-heavy cabin with premium materials.
The 2020 SQ8 is a five-seat performance-luxury SUV offered in Premium Plus and Prestige form. Premium Plus has the full 500-hp driving package plus heated and ventilated sport seats, dual touchscreens, a digital instrument display, premium audio, and surround-view cameras. Prestige keeps the same engine and suspension hardware while bringing a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, soft-closing doors, upgraded lighting, and heated rear seats.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
Every 2020 SQ8 uses a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 500 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque, paired with quattro all-wheel drive.
Suspension and steering
All-wheel steering and a sport-tuned adaptive air suspension are standard across the 2020 SQ8 lineup.
Tech
Both trims have dual touchscreens, a digital instrument display, Bang & Olufsen premium audio, and a 360-degree camera system.
Safety
Premium Plus has blind-spot monitoring and forward automatic braking. Prestige builds on that equipment with adaptive cruise control and Traffic Jam Assist.
2020 Audi SQ8 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.0 Liter | V8, Twin Turbo, 4.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd & Tiptronic | Automatic, 8-Spd & Tiptronic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 15 mpg | 15 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 21 mpg | 21 mpg |
| Horsepower | 500 hp | 500 hp |
| Torque | 568 lb-ft | 568 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 7700 lb | 7700 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 60.7 cu-ft | 60.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 40.2 in | 40.2 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic Leveling Headlights | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Cruise Control | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Active Lane Keep Assistance | ||
| Night Vision System | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Panorama Moon Roof | ||
| Rear Spoiler | ||
| Roof Rails | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Rear Window Shades | ||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||
Frequently asked questions
Is 2020 the first U.S. model year for the Audi SQ8?
Yes. The 2020 model marks the Audi SQ8’s U.S. debut as the V8-powered performance version of the Q8.
What engine is in every 2020 Audi SQ8?
Every 2020 Audi SQ8 has a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 rated at 500 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque. Quattro all-wheel drive is standard.
Do all 2020 Audi SQ8 models have all-wheel steering and air suspension?
Yes. Every 2020 SQ8 has all-wheel steering and a sport-tuned adaptive air suspension, along with standard all-wheel drive.
What is the difference between the 2020 SQ8 Premium Plus and Prestige?
Prestige has the same 500-hp V8 and core suspension hardware as Premium Plus but brings more comfort and driver-assistance equipment. Its distinguishing features include a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, upgraded lighting, soft-closing doors, heated rear seats, and rear side sunshades.
Is the 2020 Audi SQ8 a full redesign of the Q8 lineup?
No. The 2020 SQ8 is a performance model joining the existing Q8 family, not a redesign of the whole Q8 lineup.
2020 Audi SQ8 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2020 Audi SQ8.
4.5
2020 Audi SQ8
(4 reviews)