2025 Audi Q8 e-tron Review: Final Year Specs & Verdict

The 2025 Audi Q8 e-tron marks the end of Audi’s flagship electric SUV, with production ending February 28, 2025 following the Brussels factory closure^[1]. Starting at approximately $76,095 for the Premium Plus trim with Fair Purchase Pricing around $71,100^[2], this luxury EV delivers 402 horsepower, up to 300 miles of EPA-rated range, and earned a Euro NCAP 5-star safety rating^[3]. While not the longest-range competitor, the Q8 e-tron offers a refined driving experience and substantial discounts as dealers clear remaining inventory.

Overview: The End of an Era

The Q8 e-tron represents the final chapter of Audi’s first modern electric vehicle—originally launched in 2019 as simply the “e-tron”^[4]. After a mid-cycle refresh in 2024 that added the Q8 prefix, improved battery capacity, and enhanced styling, Audi confirmed the model’s discontinuation due to declining demand in the luxury EV segment and structural issues at the Brussels manufacturing facility^[1].

An Audi spokesperson confirmed that only 2024 model year vehicles are expected to be available in the US market, with no 2025 MY cars built for American dealers^[5]. However, some markets may see limited 2025 production before the factory shutdown. This creates an unusual buying situation where remaining inventory may offer significant value for buyers willing to purchase an end-of-production vehicle.

For EV shoppers considering Audi’s electric lineup, the newer Audi A6 e-tron and Audi Q4 e-tron represent the brand’s forward direction, built on the more modern PPE and MEB platforms respectively.

2025 Audi Q8 e-tron Specifications

Specification	Q8 e-tron 55	SQ8 e-tron
MSRP	~$76,095	~$90,000+
Battery Capacity	106 kWh (net)	106 kWh (net)
Total Output	402 hp	496 hp
Torque	489 lb-ft	718 lb-ft
0-60 mph	5.2 sec	4.5 sec
Top Speed	124 mph	130 mph
EPA Range	285-300 mi	~250 mi
DC Fast Charging	170 kW	170 kW
Drivetrain	quattro AWD	quattro AWD
Cargo Volume	28.5 cu ft	28.5 cu ft
Max Cargo (seats folded)	57 cu ft	57 cu ft
Length	193.1 in	193.1 in
Wheelbase	115.1 in	115.1 in
Curb Weight	~5,700 lbs	~5,800 lbs

Data from Audi, MotorTrend, Car and Driver, and KBB^[2][6][7].

Driving Experience

In MotorTrend testing, the Q8 e-tron 55 quattro reached 60 mph in 5.2 seconds^[6]—respectable but trailing quicker competitors like the BMW iX xDrive50. The dual-motor setup delivers smooth, linear power through Audi’s permanent all-wheel-drive system. Torque distribution between the front (309 Nm) and rear (355 Nm) motors provides confident grip in all conditions^[7].

Real-world driving impressions consistently praise the Q8 e-tron’s refinement. GreenCars testing found the vehicle significantly outperformed its EPA range estimate, regularly achieving over 330 miles without resorting to range-extending measures like disabling climate control^[8]. This real-world capability puts it on par with the Tesla Model Y and Mercedes-Benz EQE in practical use.

However, MotorTrend’s road trip testing yielded a more conservative 239-mile result—a significant gap from the EPA estimate^[6]. This variance highlights how driving conditions dramatically impact EV range. EPA efficiency ratings of 87 MPGe combined (84 city/90 highway) for the standard model fall within expectations for the segment^[3].

The 170 kW DC fast charging capability allows 10-80% charging in approximately 31 minutes under optimal conditions^[7]. Audi owners can access the Electrify America free charging network, providing meaningful ownership value. Those exploring additional charging solutions should review our best EV chargers guide.

Interior & Technology

The Q8 e-tron interior reflects Audi’s traditional luxury approach rather than the minimalist screens favored by some competitors. Standard features across the lineup include:

• Dual-screen MMI touch infotainment system
• Audi Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Bang & Olufsen 3D premium sound system
• Panoramic glass roof
• Leather seating surfaces
• Heated front and rear seats
• Four-zone automatic climate control

The Prestige trim (approximately $84,800 when available) adds Matrix LED headlights, head-up display, and enhanced driver assistance features^[9]. Interior space remains generous with 28.5 cubic feet of cargo behind the rear seats, expanding to 57 cubic feet with seats folded.

One criticism from Reddit owners concerns interior space relative to the platform. Despite being built on a dedicated EV architecture, the Q8 e-tron offers less interior and cargo room than Audi’s gas-powered Q8—a surprising trade-off given the packaging advantages EVs typically provide^[10].

For buyers interested in how Audi’s quattro system works in electric vehicles, the Q8 e-tron represents an interesting evolution of the brand’s all-wheel-drive heritage.

Safety Features & Ratings

The Audi Q8 e-tron earned strong safety credentials during its production run. Euro NCAP awarded a 5-star rating, and IIHS recognized the vehicle for superior crashworthiness and advanced safety features^[3].

Standard active safety equipment includes:

• Adaptive cruise assist
• Pre-sense front collision mitigation
• Pre-sense rear
• Lane departure warning
• Lane change assist
• Exit warning to prevent dooring cyclists
• Park assist with 360-degree cameras

The 2025 Q8 Sportback e-tron demonstrated excellent pedestrian detection in IIHS testing, avoiding collisions at 12 mph and 25 mph in both high-beam and low-beam scenarios^[11]. Night-time pedestrian detection showed impact speed reductions of 23-36 mph depending on conditions.

Audi’s warranty coverage spans 4 years/50,000 miles bumper-to-bumper with 8 years/100,000 miles on the battery pack—important coverage for buyers purchasing a discontinued model.

Known Issues & Owner Feedback

Several concerns have emerged from owner communities that prospective buyers should consider^[10][12]:

• Sunroof leaks: Multiple owners report water leaking directly over the dashboard and center screens—a persistent issue Audi reportedly never fully resolved
• Brake squeal: Characterized as a “VW signature” problem present across the brand
• Software glitches: Infotainment issues including digital key connectivity problems
• Range vs competition: The 285-300 mile EPA range falls short of the BMW iX (324 miles), Rivian R1S (410 miles), and Tesla Model X (335 miles)
• Interior space: Less cargo and passenger room than the gas-powered Q8 despite EV platform

One owner summarized the Q8 e-tron’s shortcomings: “Power and acceleration fall short compared to competitors. Range is merely acceptable considering the cost. Size is underwhelming—it offers less interior and cargo space than the gasoline Q8”^[10].

However, positive experiences also exist. Many owners praise the refined driving character, build quality, and the “different experience than Tesla” that appeals to luxury buyers seeking traditional automotive values^[13]. Understanding Audi longevity expectations helps set realistic ownership expectations.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Refined, quiet driving experience
• Strong real-world range (330+ miles in some tests)
• Premium interior quality and materials
• Euro NCAP 5-star safety rating
• Significant dealer discounts on remaining inventory
• Electrify America charging network access
• 8-year battery warranty

Cons:

• Production ended—parts and support concerns long-term
• Range trails newer competitors
• Interior space smaller than gas-powered Q8
• Reported sunroof leak issues never fully resolved
• Slower charging than newest EVs (170 kW vs 350 kW)
• Acceleration lags behind similarly-priced rivals

Competitive Landscape

Vehicle	Starting MSRP	Range (EPA)	Power
Audi Q8 e-tron	~$76,095	285-300 mi	402 hp
BMW iX xDrive50	$87,100	324 mi	516 hp
Mercedes EQE SUV	$77,900	279 mi	402 hp
Tesla Model X	$79,990	335 mi	670 hp
Rivian R1S	$75,900	410 mi	533 hp

The Q8 e-tron’s discontinuation creates value opportunities. With Fair Purchase Pricing around $71,100 versus $76,095 MSRP^[2], buyers can access luxury EV ownership at competitive prices. Audi incentive bulletins still list 2.99% financing for 60 months on remaining inventory^[5].

For buyers considering Audi’s electric future, the Audi SQ8 e-tron offers enhanced performance, while the upcoming Q9 and next-generation electric SUVs will replace this segment position.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the 2025 Audi Q8 e-tron?

Choose the Audi Q8 e-tron if you:

• Want a refined luxury EV at discounted end-of-production pricing
• Prioritize ride quality and interior refinement over maximum range
• Can tolerate known issues like potential sunroof leaks
• Plan to own for warranty period coverage (8 years battery)
• Prefer traditional Audi design over Tesla-style minimalism

Consider alternatives if you:

• Need maximum range and charging speed
• Worry about long-term parts availability and service support
• Want the latest EV technology and platform
• Require more interior and cargo space
• Plan extended ownership beyond warranty coverage

The Q8 e-tron represents Audi’s first serious effort in the modern EV era—and like many first-generation products, it has strengths and limitations^[1]. For buyers finding discounted remaining inventory, the combination of luxury, refinement, and substantial battery warranty creates a compelling value proposition. The vehicle drives exceptionally well and delivers the premium experience Audi buyers expect.

However, purchasing a discontinued vehicle requires clear-eyed assessment of long-term risks. Parts availability, software support, and resale value all present uncertainties. Audi has confirmed a successor is in development^[1], but that doesn’t help current Q8 e-tron owners seeking service.

For those exploring Audi’s broader electric lineup, our guides to the best Audi electric cars and best Audi SUVs provide additional context for your decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

References

1. Car and Driver. (2025). Audi Confirms the Q8 e-tron’s Death but Says a Successor Is Coming. https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a64793045/2025-audi-q8-e-tron-dead-successor-coming/
2. Kelley Blue Book. (2025). 2025 Audi Q8 e-tron. https://www.kbb.com/audi/q8-e-tron/
3. YallaMotor. (2025). 2025 Audi Q8 e-tron Safety Ratings: A Comprehensive Review. https://www.yallamotor.com/news/2025-audi-q8-e-tron-safety-ratings-34783
4. Auto Express. (2024). Last orders, please! Audi Q8 e-tron set to be axed early in 2025. https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/audi/q8-e-tron/365383/last-orders-please-audi-q8-e-tron-set-be-axed-early-2025
5. CarsDirect. (2025). Audi Q8 e-tron Canceled For 2025. https://www.carsdirect.com/automotive-news/audi-q8-e-tron-canceled-for-2025
6. MotorTrend. (2025). Audi Q8 e-tron Buyer’s Guide. https://www.motortrend.com/cars/audi/q8-e-tron
7. Audi Media Center. (2024). Audi Q8 e-tron Technical Data. https://www.audi-mediacenter.com/en/q8-suv-e-tron-until-2025-58/technical-data
8. GreenCars. (2025). Audi Q8 e-tron Road Test. https://www.greencars.com/expert-insights/audi-q8-etron-road-test
9. Carbuzz. (2025). 2025 Audi Q8 e-tron Review, Pricing, Photos, and Specs. https://carbuzz.com/cars/audi/q8-e-tron/2025/
10. Reddit r/electricvehicles. (2024). Audi Q8 e-tron slated to be axed next year.

    Audi Q8 e-tron slated to be axed next year amid 'intensified' sales slump
    byu/redeemer404 inelectricvehicles

11. IIHS. (2025). 2025 Audi Q8 e-tron Safety Ratings. https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/audi/q8-e-tron-4-door-suv/2025
12. Reddit r/etron. (2024). It’s official: Audi discontinues the Audi Q8 e-tron.

    It’s official: Audi discontinues the Audi Q8 e-tron
    byu/SensibleVillain inetron

13. YouTube – Alex on Autos. (2025). 2025 Audi Q8 eTron Review | A