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2021 Audi SQ8: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2021 Audi SQ8 is a carryover with no major product changes. It keeps the same 500-hp twin-turbo V8, two-trim lineup, and pre-refresh design as the 2020 U.S. model.
About the 2021 Audi SQ8
1st generation SQ8 in the U.S. (pre-refresh), second U.S. model year.
Audi positions the SQ8 as the point where SUV usefulness, dramatic coupe-like styling, and S-model performance meet. It takes the roomy two-row Q8 shape and adds a twin-turbo V8, sharper suspension tuning, and more aggressive design details without turning into a stripped-down track special. Its appeal is broad: very fast straight-line performance, a richly trimmed cabin, and everyday utility that still works as a luxury family SUV.
The 2021 SQ8 is a V8-powered performance SUV offered in Premium Plus and Prestige trims. Premium Plus has adaptive air suspension, heated and ventilated leather sport seats, dual touchscreens, premium audio, and a surround-view camera. Prestige adds a head-up display, adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assist, soft-closing doors, heated rear seats, and upgraded lighting.
2021 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
What changed on the 2021 Audi SQ8 compared with the 2020 model?
No major product changes were made for 2021. The SQ8 carried over its 500-hp twin-turbo V8, eight-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive, two trims, and pre-refresh styling.
Is the 2021 Audi SQ8 a redesign?
No, the 2021 SQ8 is not a redesign. It is the second U.S. model year of the first-generation SQ8 and retains the pre-refresh design introduced for 2020.
What powertrain does the 2021 Audi SQ8 use?
The 2021 Audi SQ8 uses a 500-hp twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and quattro all-wheel drive.
How do the 2021 Audi SQ8 Premium Plus and Prestige trims differ?
Prestige builds on Premium Plus with a head-up display, adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assist, soft-closing doors, heated rear seats, and upgraded lighting. Premium Plus already has the core SQ8 equipment, including the V8, adaptive air suspension, dual touchscreens, premium audio, and a surround-view camera.
2021 Audi SQ8 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2021 Audi SQ8.
4.4
2021 Audi SQ8
(36 reviews)
“The SQ8 is the definition of a Q-Ship. It's incredibly competent and the exhaust note is divine, but you can drive it and no one knows what it is capable of!”
“The MMI System is marvelous when it works - but it only works 75% of the time and no one wants to fix it. Took an Apple technician to pair my phone to the AUDI MMI.”