“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!”
Audi SQ8: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Audi SQ8 is a five-seat luxury performance SUV with coupe-like styling, a 500-hp twin-turbo V8, and standard all-wheel drive. It is known for combining serious speed with an upscale cabin and everyday SUV usefulness.
Introduced for 2020, the SQ8 has consistently been the sleeker, more performance-focused alternative to Audi’s boxier SQ7. Its defining formula is a powerful V8, standard all-wheel drive, and a comfortable five-seat cabin in a shape that looks more restrained than many performance SUVs. Updates have focused mainly on lighting, driver-assistance features, and cabin comfort rather than changing that basic character.
Strengths
- The 500-hp twin-turbo V8 gives the SQ8 the effortless straight-line speed expected from a serious performance SUV.
- Standard all-wheel drive and an adaptive air suspension help it feel secure and composed while preserving everyday comfort.
- The five-seat cabin uses upscale materials and balances a sporty atmosphere with real daily usefulness.
- Its coupe-like roof gives it a more dramatic shape than the SQ7 without turning it into an impractical two-door vehicle.
- Its design is relatively understated, which suits drivers who want strong performance without especially loud styling.
Who it's for
The SQ8 fits someone who wants one vehicle for commuting, road trips, and family duty but does not want to give up V8 power or distinctive styling. It makes the most sense for a buyer who values speed and luxury more than fuel economy or maximum box-shaped cargo space.
Audi SQ8 lineup
Premium Plus is the starting point and delivers the same core V8 performance, all-wheel drive, and air suspension as the upper trim. Pick it when the SQ8’s engine, handling, and cabin are the main priorities. Prestige is the step up for more comfort, convenience, and technology; depending on the year, its extras have included upgraded lighting, parking assistance, massaging front seats, and expanded seat memory. The two trims are mechanically similar, so the choice mostly comes down to how much luxury equipment matters.
Audi SQ8 generations
From 2020 to 2026, the SQ8 spans 1 generation. The current 1st Generation — 4M arrived for 2020.
1st Generation — 4M (2020–Present)
The first SQ8 is the V8-powered performance version of the Q8, with a 500-hp twin-turbo V8, all-wheel drive, four-wheel steering, and an adjustable air suspension. A 2024 mid-cycle update revised the front and rear styling and upgraded the lighting without changing the core powertrain.
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2026
The two-trim lineup, 500-hp twin-turbo V8, and core cabin and suspension hardware carry over.
2025
Traffic sign recognition and LED interior lighting became standard across the lineup. Prestige also gained standard front-seat massage and expanded seat memory.
2024Mid-cycle update
Revised front and rear styling, upgraded lighting, and new exterior and interior finishes freshened the SQ8. The 500-hp V8 carried over.
2023
Upgraded LED headlights became standard, along with animated headlight and taillight sequences. Prestige gained remote parking assistance.
2022
More driver-assistance features became standard, including adaptive cruise control and lane assistance. New appearance packages and direct tire-pressure monitoring were also added.
2021
The SQ8 carried over with only a minor convenience update.
2020New generation
The SQ8 debuted in the U.S. as the V8-powered performance version of the Q8, with four-wheel steering and an adjustable sport air suspension.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Audi SQ8.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of vehicle is the Audi SQ8?
The Audi SQ8 is a five-seat luxury performance SUV with a sleek, coupe-like roof. It combines a 500-hp twin-turbo V8 and standard all-wheel drive with an upscale cabin and everyday cargo space.
What is the Audi SQ8 known for?
The SQ8 is known for blending strong V8 acceleration with a quiet, upscale cabin and understated styling. Its air suspension and all-wheel steering also help it balance comfort with more responsive handling.
Is the Audi SQ8 a hybrid?
No. The SQ8 covered here is a gas-powered SUV with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and standard all-wheel drive.
Does the Audi SQ8 have all-wheel drive?
Yes. Every SQ8 uses Audi's quattro all-wheel drive. It works with the V8, sport air suspension, and all-wheel steering to provide traction and make the large SUV feel easier to place on the road.
Who is the Audi SQ8 a good fit for?
The SQ8 suits someone who wants V8 performance and a premium five-seat cabin without moving to a boxier-looking SUV. It also offers up to 60.8 cubic feet of cargo room and a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds.
How many generations of the Audi SQ8 are there?
There is one SQ8 generation in the U.S., introduced for 2020. It received a mid-cycle update with revised styling and upgraded lighting, but the 500-hp V8 formula remained in place.
Audi SQ8 Reviews
What owners are saying about the Audi SQ8.
4.3
Audi SQ8
(113 reviews)
“The SQ8 is a capable and fun car to drive. The car has fantastic acceleration and a growl that is a joy to listen to as you shift through the gears.”
“it is unreal. So fun to drive, and beautiful. Like a Lambo but undercover, and I got the Bentley paint finish...”
“The overall exterior and interior design is one of the best of any SUV on the market today.”
“Absolutely an outstanding car. A poor mans Lambo-URUS. Does everything the same with a much smaller price tag. One of the best cars on the road today. Amazing reviews/write ups by professionals.”
“I don't love how when you get out of park and put the gas on, it can jolt into gear. Same thing with braking - can be jolting, not smooth.”