Audi Q8 e-tron S

Overview

The Audi Q8 e-tron S is the Ingolstadt giant's muscle-bound entry into the premium electric SUV arena, packing a serious three-motor punch. This isn't just any Q8 e-tron; the 'S' badge means enhanced performance and a more aggressive character, making it a standout choice for those wanting electrifying speed with family-friendly practicality. It's a tech-laden, luxurious beast designed to thrill. In Europe, expect a new one to set you back around €98,100, with used examples from its recent introduction hovering near €81,450. It’s a compelling package for the discerning EV enthusiast.

What's New for 2025?

For 2025, the Audi Q8 e-tron S largely continues its impressive run since its major 2023 model year update, which brought the 'Q8' name and significant battery and range enhancements. Expect Audi to refine the MMI software and potentially shuffle some equipment packages, possibly offering new paint colours or wheel designs to keep things fresh for the European market. Major powertrain or design overhauls aren't anticipated for this model year, meaning the potent tri-motor setup and sharpened styling remain the core appeal. The focus is on polishing an already accomplished electric performance SUV.

Design & Exterior

The Q8 e-tron S boasts a properly menacing stance, wider and more assertive than its standard siblings thanks to flared wheel arches. Its signature Singleframe grille gets a unique S-treatment, flanked by sharp Digital Matrix LED headlights. Sculpted lines flow across its substantial 4915 mm length and 1976 mm width (excluding mirrors), while it stands 1631 mm tall. Distinctive S bumpers, mirror caps in aluminium look, and usually larger, sportier alloy wheels complete the aggressive yet sophisticated look, ensuring it turns heads wherever it silently prowls on European roads.

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the Q8 e-tron S and you're greeted by a cabin dripping with Audi's renowned quality and tech. Expect plush Valcona leather sport seats, often with diamond stitching, and premium trim inlays like carbon fibre. The Audi Virtual Cockpit and dual MMI touch response screens dominate the dash, offering crisp graphics and haptic feedback. Passenger space is generous for five. Luggage? A practical 569 litres in the boot expands to a cavernous 1637 litres with seats down, plus a handy 62-litre frunk. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.

Performance & Driving Experience

This brute means business! The Q8 e-tron S rockets from 0-100 km/h in a blistering 4.5 seconds, courtesy of its three electric motors – one Induction Motor at the front, and two Induction Motors at the rear – unleashing a combined 370 kW and a colossal 973 Nm of torque. This sophisticated all-wheel-drive system delivers incredible traction and agility for such a hefty machine (2725 kg curb weight!). Standard S-specific adaptive air suspension provides a brilliant blend of cosseting ride comfort and dynamic handling when you fancy some spirited driving on winding European roads.

Range, Battery & Charging

Powering the Q8 e-tron S is a substantial 106 kWh (usable) battery pack, delivering a Green Cars Compare calculated real-world range of around 383 km, with an efficiency of 3.61 km/kWh. For AC charging via its CCS Type 2 port, it comes standard with an 11 kW on-board charger (fully juicing it in under 10 hours), with a zippier 22 kW optional upgrade roughly halving that. When you’re out and about, it can gulp down DC power at up to 170 kW, typically taking around 30 minutes for a 10-80% top-up.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Audi doesn't skimp on safety, and the Q8 e-tron S proudly wears a 5-star Euro NCAP rating. It’s a veritable fortress on wheels, packed with advanced driver-assistance systems. Standard features typically include Audi Pre Sense front and lane departure warning. Goodies like adaptive cruise assist with lane guidance, turn assist, blind-spot monitoring (Side Assist), and a 360-degree camera system are often part of comprehensive optional packages available in Europe, turning it into a highly attentive digital co-pilot for stress-free journeys across the continent.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

In Europe, Audi typically backs the Q8 e-tron S with a 2-year/unlimited kilometre vehicle warranty, plus 3 years for paint and 12 years against rust perforation. Crucially, the high-voltage battery gets an 8-year or 160,000 km warranty, whichever comes first, guaranteeing at least 70% of its usable capacity. While specific complimentary maintenance plans vary by country and dealer, Audis are known for solid build quality. EV upkeep is generally lower, focusing on checks rather than frequent fluid changes, suiting the model's premium, low-hassle appeal.