Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron S

Overview

The 2025 Audi Q8 Sportback e-tron S is Audi's electrifying answer to the performance SUV coupe, blending sleek lines with serious punch. This isn't just any Q8 e-tron; the 'S' badge means a stonking tri-motor setup delivering exhilarating AWD performance and a more aggressive stance. It’s for those wanting luxury, cutting-edge tech, and a thrilling drive without the gas pump. With a new price around $92,600 and used examples from $67,950, it’s a premium slice of electric excitement, packing an impressive real-world range for daily thrills and longer adventures.

What's New for 2025?

After a big glow-up for 2024 that brought the new Q8 e-tron name, a beefier battery, and more miles, the 2025 S model largely carries over these awesome updates. Expect the same stunning performance and tech, with Audi possibly sprinkling in minor tweaks like new paint options or fine-tuning some equipment packages. The core package, especially that stonking tri-motor setup and improved range from the 106 kWh battery (usable), remains the star of the show for this electric rocket ship. It’s already a well-honed machine, ready to impress!

Design & Exterior

This electric beast looks the business! The Q8 Sportback e-tron S flaunts a super-slick, sloping roofline giving it that sporty coupe-SUV vibe, distinct from its regular SUV sibling. Up front, the S gets a more aggressive grille and bumper treatment, plus those signature Audi S silver mirror caps and unique alloy wheel designs. Measuring 193.5 inches long, 77.8 inches wide (no mirrors), and 63.7 inches tall, it’s got presence. Expect awesome Digital Matrix LED headlights to slice through the night, making this machine a real head-turner with its muscular, yet sophisticated, Audi design language.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Slide inside the Q8 Sportback e-tron S, and you're greeted by pure Audi class – think plush materials, Valcona leather S sport seats, and a super modern, driver-focused dash. It’s packed with tech, featuring Audi's dual-screen MMI touch response system and the brilliant Virtual Cockpit Plus. Passengers get comfy in its 5 seats, though that sleek roofline nibbles a bit on rear headroom. Cargo-wise, you get a decent 18.6 ft³ in the trunk, expanding to a massive 55.3 ft³ with seats down, plus a handy 2.2 ft³ frunk for your charge cables.

Performance & Driving Experience

Hold on tight! The Q8 Sportback e-tron S rockets from 0-60 mph in a blistering 4.2 seconds thanks to its beastly tri-motor setup – one Induction Motor (IM) up front, and two IMs at the rear – pumping out a combined 370 kW (that's about 496 hp!) and a massive 718 lb-ft of torque. This sophisticated all-wheel-drive system provides incredible grip and agility, making this sizable SUV feel surprisingly nimble. Adaptive air suspension comes standard, offering a sublime blend of sporty handling and silky-smooth ride comfort. Braking is strong, with effective regen to claw back some miles.

Range, Battery & Charging

Powering this rocket is a hefty 106 kWh usable battery, giving a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range of 242 miles – pretty solid for a performance machine. Efficiency is rated at 2.28 mi/kWh. Juice it up at home with the standard 9.6 kW AC on-board charger via its CCS Type 1 port (a full top-up takes around 11-12 hours). Out and about, it can hit a max DC fast charging speed of 170 kW, meaning you can blast from 10-80% charge in about 30-35 minutes. Perfect for those quick pit stops!

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Audi packs the Q8 Sportback e-tron S with safety gear, reflected in its top 5-star NHTSA rating. Standard kit includes Audi Pre Sense front (collision warning and braking) and lane departure warning. You'll likely find many advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) standard on this 'S' trim, such as adaptive cruise assist with lane guidance, blind-spot monitoring (Audi side assist), and a 360-degree camera system for tight parking spots. This tech not only keeps you safe but also makes daily driving and long journeys a breeze, offering peace of mind alongside the thrills.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Audi backs the Q8 Sportback e-tron S with a solid warranty. Expect a comprehensive new vehicle limited warranty for 4 years or 50,000 miles. Critically for an EV, the high-voltage battery is typically covered for a lengthy 8 years or 100,000 miles, including protection against excessive degradation. Audi often includes some complimentary scheduled maintenance, usually for the first year or 10,000 miles. While complex, electric Audis generally show good reliability, offering a premium ownership experience with fewer traditional moving parts to worry about compared to their combustion cousins.