2021 Audi Q8

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2021 Audi Q8 Review: A Very Compelling Underdog

由艾登Eksteen

With the USA's growing obsession with crossover cars, automakers are getting creative in an attempt to stake a claim to a share of this lucrative market. The 2021 Audi Q8 is one of these oddballs in the popular classification with its distinct SUV frame and coupe-styled rear end. The quirky design works beautifully with Audi's suave and contemporary styling ethos and has the Q8 SUV stand out alongside esteemed competitors such as thePorsche Cayenne Coupe,Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 Coupe, and theBMW X6. Under its gallant hood is a strapping 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine that's been augmented with a mild-hybrid system for total outputs of 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. Fun and engaging drive dynamics are met with serene ride comfort, contemporary design, oodles of modern specifications, and top-notch safety standards, all making the Q8 SUV a genuinely attractive offering in the segment, but it's not quite perfect.

Read in this review:

8.5
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2021 Audi Q8 Changes:What’s the difference vs 2020 Audi Q8?

The 2021 Q8 is the flagship of the brand's SUV range, and for the 2021 model year, it comes with a few new standard features. Audi side assist and pre sense rear are now standard on the base trim. The optional Convenience Package now includes a heated steering wheel and top-view camera for the base model. Premium Plus models get the heated steering wheel as standard, and the Executive Package available to this trim includes heated rear seats, leather-upholstered armrests, adaptive cruise assist, Audi active lane assist, and HD Matrix-design LED headlights.

Pros and Cons

  • Debonair and contemporary design
  • Proficient and enjoyable dynamics
  • Polished and serene driving quality
  • Loaded with advanced technology
  • Phenomenal complete safety rating
  • Form-design does hinder cabin room
  • Infotainment system can be distracting
  • Powertrain feels uncouth at low-speeds
  • Just average fuel economy returns

Best Deals on 2021 Audi Q8

2021 Audi Q8 Trims

See trim levels and configurations:

Trim Engine Transmission Drivetrain Price (MSRP)
Premium 55 TFSI quattro
3.0L Turbo V6 Gas
8-Speed Automatic
All-Wheel Drive
$68,200
Prestige 55 TFSI quattro
3.0L Turbo V6 Gas
8-Speed Automatic
All-Wheel Drive
$68,200
Premium Plus 55 TFSI quattro
3.0L Turbo V6 Gas
8-Speed Automatic
All-Wheel Drive
$68,200
See All 2021 Audi Q8 Trims and Specs

2021 Q8 Exterior

2021 Audi Q8 Front View CarBuzz
2021 Audi Q8 Rear View CarBuzz
2021 Audi Q8 Front Angle View CarBuzz
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Dimensions

  • Length 196.6 in
  • Wheelbase 117.9 in
  • Height 67.2 in
  • Max Width 78.5 in
  • Front Width 66.1 in
  • Rear Width 66.6 in
  • Curb Weight 4,960.0 lbs

Exterior Colors

  • Vicuna Beige Metallic+$595
  • Galaxy Blue Metallic+$595
  • Florett Silver Metallic+$595
  • Glacier White Metallic+$595
  • Dragon Orange Metallic+$595
  • Navarra Blue Metallic+$595
  • Daytona Gray Pearl Effect+$595
  • Orca Black Metallic+$595
  • Samurai Gray Metallic+$595
  • Carrara White
  • Night Black

2021 Q8 Performance

2021 Audi Q8 Driving Front Angle CarBuzz
2021 Audi Q8 Rear Angle View CarBuzz
2021 Audi Q8 Wheel CarBuzz

Engine and Transmission

  • Engine
    3.0L Turbo V6 Gas
  • Transmission
    8-Speed Automatic
  • Drivetrain
    AWD

2021 Q8 Interior

2021 Audi Q8 Steering Wheel CarBuzz
2021 Audi Q8 Gear Shifter CarBuzz
2021 Audi Q8 Seat Controls CarBuzz
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Seating and Interior Space

  • Seating capacity
    5-seater
  • Front Leg Room 41.6 in
  • Front Head Room 37.1 in
  • Rear Leg Room 40.2 in
  • Rear Head Room 38.1 in

2021 Q8 Trunk and Cargo Space

2021 Audi Q8 Sunroof CarBuzz
2021 Audi Q8 Rear Passenger Seats CarBuzz
2021 Audi Q8 Trunk Space with Seat Folded CarBuzz

2021 Q8 Safety and Reliability

Warranty

  • Basic:
    4 Years \ 50,000 Miles
  • Drivetrain:
    4 Years \ 50,000 Miles
  • Corrosion:
    12 Years \ Unlimited Miles
  • Hybrid/Electric Components:
    8 Years \ 100,000 Miles
  • Roadside Assistance:
    4 Years \ Unlimited Miles

US NHTSA Crash Test Result

  • Overall Rating
  • Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
  • Side Crash Rating
  • Rollover Rating

Verdict:Is the 2021 Audi Q8 a good SUV?

With its sophisticated and contemporary design, poised and balanced performance dynamics, and its modern, commodious, and featureful cabin, the first-gen Q8 is an exceptional midsize SUV for its price, which starts at $68,200. It can feel a little out of touch when driven around town but as soon as it's cruising and on the go, overall performance is as pleasant as can be. It also comes standard-fit with Audi's latest technologies such as a virtual cockpit and loads of luxury features, including leather in-cabin surfaces. Despite the coupe-styled roofline cutting into rear passenger head space, the Q8 still offers one of the most spacious interiors around. With its expansive trunk, it's also one of the most practical 5-door midsize SUVs. These qualities, along with the NHTSA and IIHS's comprehensive review of the 2021 Audi Q8, not excluding high reliability expectations, prop the Q8 SUV up as one of the best vehicles money can buy in the class.

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2021 Audi Q8 Comparisons

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