“I would tell them that this vehicle is safe and of superior quality. Also, will last for a lot of miles.”
2021 Audi Q8: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2021 Audi Q8 is that blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert is standard on every trim. This is a light equipment update, not a redesign, and the engine, AWD system, and overall design carry over.
About the 2021 Audi Q8
1st generation (2019-2023 before the 2024 refresh), third model year
Audi positions the Q8 as its style-first flagship gas SUV: a two-row luxury SUV with the stance of a large utility vehicle and the sleeker roofline of a coupe. For most buyers, its appeal is not maximum passenger capacity but a mix of strong V6 power, standard AWD, a highly digital cabin, and a more dramatic look than the related Q7. It is aimed at shoppers who want upscale comfort and technology without giving up everyday usefulness.
The Premium delivers the core Q8 experience with a 335-hp turbocharged V6, AWD, dual touchscreens, navigation, heated leather front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. Premium Plus adds everyday comfort and technology such as ventilated front seats, a surround-view camera, four-zone climate control, and premium audio, while Prestige brings adaptive cruise assistance, a head-up display, heated rear seats, soft-close doors, and upgraded LED headlights.
What changed, by category
Safety
Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert becomes standard across all three trims.
Tech
A heated steering wheel becomes standard on Premium Plus and Prestige. Prestige also gains standard heated rear seats.
2021 Audi Q8 specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, Turbo, 3.0 Liter | V6, Turbo, 3.0 Liter | V6, Turbo, 3.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd & Tiptronic | Automatic, 8-Spd & Tiptronic | Automatic, 8-Spd & Tiptronic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 18 mpg | 18 mpg | 18 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 23 mpg | 23 mpg | 23 mpg |
| Horsepower | 335 hp | 335 hp | 335 hp |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 7700 lb | 7700 lb | 7700 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 60.7 cu-ft | 60.7 cu-ft | 60.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 40.2 in | 40.2 in | 40.2 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |||
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic High Beams | |||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||
| Cruise Control | |||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||
| Night Vision System | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Top View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | |||
| LED Headlights | |||
| Panorama Moon Roof | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Roof Rails | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| 4-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Rear Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Memory Front Seats | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Rear Window Shades | |||
| Tri-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning | |||
| Ventilated Front Seats | |||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2021 Audi Q8 compared with the 2020 model?
The main change is standard blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert on every 2021 Q8. Premium Plus and Prestige also gain a standard heated steering wheel, while Prestige adds standard heated rear seats. The basic design and mechanical package remain the same.
Is the 2021 Audi Q8 a redesign?
No, the 2021 Audi Q8 is not a redesign. It receives a light safety and comfort equipment update within the first generation, which began for 2019.
Does every 2021 Audi Q8 have blind-spot monitoring?
Yes, every 2021 Audi Q8 has standard blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. This is the year’s most important lineup-wide change.
Did the 2021 Audi Q8 get a new engine?
No, the 2021 Audi Q8 keeps the same 335-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system and standard AWD across all three trims.
Is the 2021 Audi Q8 worth considering over the 2020 model?
The 2021 Q8 is the more appealing year if standard blind-spot monitoring matters to you. Premium Plus and Prestige also have added cold-weather comfort, but otherwise the two model years share the same core design and powertrain.
2021 Audi Q8 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2021 Audi Q8.
4.2
2021 Audi Q8
(140 reviews)
“Be ready to have the most satisfying ride experience you could imagine with an SUV.”
“Get ready for an awesome driving experience. You will learn something new daily.”