Audi Q8 e-tron S

Overview

Get ready for the electrifying 2025 Audi SQ8 e-tron, a high-performance luxury electric SUV that's all about blending sophisticated style with some serious punch! Positioned as the athletic sibling in the Q8 e-tron family, this beast boasts a potent tri-motor setup for blistering quattro all-wheel drive grip. It's the one for discerning US buyers wanting thrilling EV dynamics without skimping on Audi's renowned luxury. Expect a new SQ8 e-tron to start around $89,900, with pre-owned examples from previous years, like the 2023 model, averaging about $65,915 in the US market.

What's New for 2025?

For 2025, the Audi SQ8 e-tron largely carries over its impressive package from the significant 2024 model year refresh, which brought beefier batteries and sharper looks. This year, expect subtle refinements, possibly including an updated steering wheel offering enhanced haptic feedback for driver-assistance systems. The big news is the Audi MIB 3 infotainment system getting an upgrade with a new native app store, allowing you to download popular third-party apps directly to the car. So, it's more evolution than revolution, keeping this electric powerhouse fresh and tech-forward.

Design & Exterior

The 2025 Audi SQ8 e-tron is a real head-turner, rocking that signature Audi EV grille and muscular SUV stance, but with an extra dose of aggression. Think wider fenders, unique bumpers, and slick S-specific badges that scream performance. It rolls on striking alloy wheels, typically 20-inchers or larger, fitting its sporty character. Standard Matrix-design LED headlights slice through the night. Dimension-wise, it's a substantial machine, measuring 193.5 inches long, a broad 77.8 inches wide (mirrors excluded), and 64.2 inches tall, giving it some serious road presence.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the SQ8 e-tron, and you're greeted by Audi's impeccable build quality and a cabin dripping with tech. Plush materials, sporty S-branded seats, and configurable ambient lighting create a premium vibe for its 5 occupants. You get Audi's Virtual Cockpit Plus and dual MMI touchscreens (10.1-inch upper, 8.6-inch lower) with crisp graphics and standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Cargo space is generous: 20.1 cubic feet in the trunk, expanding to a massive 55.3 cubic feet with seats down, plus a handy 2.2 cubic foot frunk for your charge cables.

Performance & Driving Experience

Hold on tight! The SQ8 e-tron rockets from 0-60 mph in a blistering 4.2 seconds, thanks to its tri-motor powertrain – one Induction Motor (IM) up front and two IMs at the rear. This setup delivers a thumping 496 horsepower (370 kW in boost) and a colossal 718 lb-ft of torque through its advanced quattro all-wheel-drive system. Expect a dynamic yet refined driving experience, with adaptive air suspension soaking up bumps while keeping things planted in the corners. Strong regenerative braking with multiple modes helps you claw back precious miles.

Range, Battery & Charging

The SQ8 e-tron packs a hefty 106 kWh usable battery, giving it a Green Cars Compare estimated real-world range of 238 miles – pretty solid for a performance SUV. Efficiency is rated at 2.25 mi/kWh. For charging, its standard 9.6 kW on-board AC charger can top up the battery overnight (around 11-12 hours). When you're out and about, it gulps down juice at up to 170 kW from a DC fast charger via its CCS Type 1 port, taking you from 10-80% in roughly 30 minutes. Charging ports are conveniently located on both sides.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety is paramount in the SQ8 e-tron, sharing the Q8 e-tron's 5-star NHTSA rating and likely its IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award. It's loaded with standard driver-assistance tech, including Audi Pre Sense front and rear, adaptive cruise assist with lane guidance – which is like having an expert co-pilot – blind-spot monitoring (Audi side assist) with rear cross-traffic alert, and a top-view camera system. More advanced features like intersection assist further enhance peace of mind, making this sporty SUV a fortress on wheels.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Audi backs the 2025 SQ8 e-tron with a comprehensive warranty package. You get a 4-year/50,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty, while the crucial high-voltage battery is covered for a reassuring 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first, including protection against excessive degradation. Roadside assistance is also included for 4 years. While Audi doesn't typically offer extensive complimentary maintenance like some rivals, your first scheduled service visit might be covered. Overall, expect typical Audi reliability for a premium EV experience.