Although not quite as potent as the RS Q8, the SQ8 remains one of Audi's most impressive performance SUVs. With 500 horsepower from its turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, it'll hit 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds. An eight-speed automatic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive are standard, as is a sport adaptive air suspension.
It may not have the interior space of the SQ7, but the SQ8 is a far sportier-looking vehicle. It rides on 21-inch alloys and features a tailgate roof spoiler, HD Matrix-design LED headlights, and quad exhaust tips. Climb inside and you'll be greeted by an interior resplendent in Valcona leather with contrast diamond stitching. A power-adjustable steering wheel, four-zone climate control, heated front seats, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system are all standard. The top-spec Prestige has all of this but adds a head-up display, power soft-closing doors, intersection assist, heated rear seats, and dual-pane acoustic glass for the side windows.
Audi makes a few packages available for the SQ8 lineup. Unsurprisingly, there aren't many given that the SUV is pretty loaded already as standard. Starting with the Premium Plus, the $2,200 Black Optic Package adds 22-inch wheels, all-season tires and black exterior bits including roof rails and a black grille. The $2,400 Executive Package includes various items, including ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, extended leather, electric rear sunblinds, and dual-pane acoustic glass for the side windows. The $4,200 Carbon Optic Package brings with it 22-inch alloys, blacked-out exterior trim, and carbon-fiber mirror caps, door inlays, and rear bumper trim. With the $4,350 SQ8 Luxury package, the SQ8 is kitted out with a black Dinamica headliner, extended leather, and massaging front seats.
The Prestige offers a Sport Package that costs $5,900 and adds active roll stabilization, a sport rear differential, and red brake calipers. Unlike the Premium Plus, this top model can also be had with night vision assistance ($2,500) and the upgraded 23-speaker Bang & Olufsen 3D advanced sound system ($5,000).