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The 2022 Audi Q8 delivers a compelling blend of coupe-like styling, potent V6 power, and Audi’s signature interior refinement. After spending time with this five-seater, the Q8 proves itself as a fashion-forward alternative to the three-row Q7—but buyers sacrifice cargo space and rear-seat headroom for that sloping roofline[1]. Those prioritizing style and performance over maximum utility will find plenty to appreciate here.
Why This Review Matters
Shopping in the luxury mid-size SUV segment means navigating dozens of capable options from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche. The 2022 Q8 occupies an interesting niche as Audi’s flagship SUV, positioned to compete with vehicles like the BMW X6 and Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe. Understanding where it excels—and where it falls short—can save buyers thousands on a vehicle that costs roughly $70,000 to start[2].
Specifications Overview
| Category | 2022 Audi Q8 55 TFSI |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L Turbocharged V6[2] |
| Horsepower | 335 hp[2] |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft[2] |
| 0-60 mph | 5.6 seconds[2] |
| Fuel Economy | 18 city / 23 highway / 20 combined MPG[2] |
| Drivetrain | quattro AWD (standard)[2] |
| Seating Capacity | 5[2] |
| Cargo Volume | 60.7 cu ft (seats folded)[2] |
| Towing Capacity | 7,700 lbs[2] |
| Curb Weight | 4,960 lbs[2] |
| Fuel Tank | 22.5 gallons[2] |
Design and Practicality
Audi derived the Q8 from the Q7 platform but gave it a dramatically different character. The roofline slopes aggressively toward the rear, creating visual drama that sets it apart from boxier competitors[1]. At 196.6 inches long and 86.2 inches wide (including mirrors), the Q8 presents substantial road presence without feeling unwieldy in parking situations[2].
That coupe-inspired styling comes with trade-offs. Where the Q7 offers three rows and maximum cargo utility, the Q8 limits occupants to five seats. The swept roofline eats into rear headroom noticeably. Interior storage is another weak point—Edmunds reviewers noted the limited cubby space makes organizing smaller items frustrating[1].
Inside, Audi’s craftmanship impresses. High-quality materials cover nearly every surface, and the front and rear seats provide genuine all-day comfort for road trips[1]. The cabin feels premium in ways that justify the price premium over mainstream alternatives.
Performance and Efficiency
Under the hood sits a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 producing 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque[2]. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system, the powertrain moves nearly 5,000 pounds to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds[2]. That’s impressively quick for a vehicle of this size.
The Q8 handles better than its dimensions suggest. Through sweeping corners and tight turns, the suspension keeps body roll in check while maintaining composed behavior[1]. Sport mode tightens everything up noticeably. Only in higher-speed cornering does the Q8’s mass become a limiting factor, reminding you this is still a heavy SUV[1].
One persistent criticism involves throttle response in the default driving mode—reviewers found it sluggish, requiring drivers to select Sport mode for the engine to feel properly responsive[1]. The 7,700-pound towing capacity ranks competitively for the segment[2].
Fuel economy numbers won’t impress efficiency-minded shoppers. The EPA rates the Q8 at 18 mpg city, 23 highway, and 20 combined—acceptable for the class but nothing exceptional[2]. Premium fuel is required[2].
Technology and Features
Audi loads the Q8 with standard equipment across its three trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige[2]. Every Q8 includes navigation, smartphone integration, a panoramic moonroof, leather seating, dual power front seats, and rain-sensing wipers[2].
The dual-touchscreen MMI system handles most controls, replacing physical buttons almost entirely. While the displays look modern and respond crisply, Edmunds testers found the system distracting to operate while driving[1]. Simple tasks like adjusting climate settings require looking away from the road.
Standard driver assistance features include blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning[2]. Moving up to Premium Plus adds a top-view camera system, while the Prestige trim offers optional night vision and pedestrian detection[2].
Safety Ratings
The 2022 Q8 earned strong marks from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. IIHS awarded “Good” ratings—the highest possible—in small overlap front (driver and passenger), moderate overlap front, side impact, roof strength, and head restraint tests[3].
| IIHS Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front (Driver) | Good[3] |
| Small Overlap Front (Passenger) | Good[3] |
| Moderate Overlap Front | Good[3] |
| Side Impact | Good[3] |
| Roof Strength | Good (5.00 strength-to-weight ratio)[3] |
| Head Restraints | Good[3] |
Front crash prevention earned a “Superior” rating for both vehicle-to-vehicle and pedestrian detection scenarios[3]. In testing, the Q8 avoided collisions at 25 mph with both crossing adults and parallel-moving pedestrians[3].
Headlight ratings vary by trim. Models equipped with the HD Matrix LED package (Premium Plus with the upgrade, or Prestige trim) earned an “Acceptable” rating, while standard LED headlights on Premium and base Premium Plus trims received a “Poor” rating due to excessive glare[3].
Trim Levels and Pricing
| Trim | Features | 2022 MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| 55 TFSI Premium | Navigation, panoramic roof, leather, blind-spot monitoring, smartphone integration[2] | ~$70,800[4] |
| 55 TFSI Premium Plus | Adds: Top-view camera, heated steering wheel, premium audio[2] | ~$75,200[4] |
| 55 TFSI Prestige | Adds: Available night vision, pedestrian detection, HD Matrix LED headlights[2] | ~$82,500[4] |
For buyers seeking more performance, Audi offers the SQ8 with a 500-horsepower twin-turbo V8. If electric vehicles interest you, consider the Q8 e-tron as an alternative.
Pros and Cons
Strengths:
- Standard features list eliminates nickel-and-diming—navigation, panoramic roof, and leather come on every trim without charging extra[1]
- Front and rear seats deliver genuine all-day comfort, making the Q8 a capable road trip vehicle for four adults[1]
- Interior material quality meets expectations at this price point, with soft-touch surfaces and precise assembly throughout the cabin[1]
- Suspension balances compliance with body control, providing a comfortable ride without feeling floaty in corners[1]
Weaknesses:
- Less practical than the related [Q7] due to the two-row-only configuration and reduced cargo volume from the sloping roofline[1]
- Touchscreen infotainment demands visual attention that takes eyes off the road, making routine adjustments more cumbersome than traditional controls[1]
- Default driving mode throttle response feels sluggish—Sport mode improves acceleration but increases fuel consumption[1]
- Standard headlights on Premium and Premium Plus trims create excessive glare, earning a “Poor” rating from IIHS[3]
Final Verdict
The 2022 Audi Q8 succeeds as a style-focused luxury SUV for buyers who don’t need maximum practicality. The combination of a refined cabin, capable powertrain, and striking design justifies the premium over the Q7 for the right shopper. That said, families needing three rows or maximum cargo flexibility should look elsewhere.
- Choose the Q8 if: You want Audi’s flagship SUV experience with coupe styling, don’t require a third row, and prioritize interior quality over cargo space.
- Consider alternatives if: You need maximum practicality, prefer physical controls over touchscreens, or want better headlight performance without paying for the Prestige trim.
For those researching Audi long-term reliability or wondering about fuel requirements, understanding ownership costs helps complete the picture. The Q8 requires specialized maintenance, which factors into total cost of ownership.
FAQs
Is the 2022 Audi Q8 reliable?
The Q8 shares its platform and powertrain with the proven Q7, which has established a reasonable reliability track record. Audi vehicles generally require more expensive maintenance than mainstream brands, but the 3.0T engine has demonstrated durability across multiple model years[1].
How does the Q8 compare to the Q7?
Both SUVs share the same platform and powertrain options, but the Q7 offers three rows of seating and more cargo space due to its conventional SUV roofline. The Q8 sacrifices that third row for a sportier appearance and slightly improved handling characteristics[1].
What is the fuel economy of the 2022 Q8?
EPA estimates rate the Q8 55 TFSI at 18 mpg city, 23 mpg highway, and 20 mpg combined. Premium fuel is required, adding to operating costs[2].
Does the 2022 Q8 require premium gas?
Yes, the turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 requires premium unleaded fuel with a minimum 91 octane rating[2].
References
- Edmunds. (2022). 2022 Audi Q8 Review & Ratings. https://www.edmunds.com/audi/q8/2022/
- Kelley Blue Book. (2022). 2022 Audi Q8 Specs, Features & Options. https://www.kbb.com/audi/q8/2022/specs/
- IIHS. (2022). 2022 Audi Q8 Safety Ratings. https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/audi/q8-4-door-suv/2022
- Car and Driver. (2022). 2022 Audi Q8 Review, Pricing, and Specs. https://www.caranddriver.com/audi/q8-2022
I am a senior automotive analyst at Autvex. Expert vehicle evaluations, in-depth reviews, and objective analysis helping readers make informed automotive decisions with years of industry experience.
