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The 2025 Audi Q8 carries forward with minor refinements while maintaining its position as Audi’s stylish flagship SUV. Starting at $74,400, the Q8 delivers a turbocharged V6 with mild hybrid assistance, standard adaptive cruise control, and an interior that rivals vehicles costing considerably more[1]. After extended testing, the Q8 continues to excel for buyers who prioritize design and cabin quality over maximum practicality—though the “Marginal” IIHS moderate overlap rating warrants attention.
Why This Review Matters
The luxury mid-size SUV segment remains intensely competitive, with capable options from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and Genesis vying for attention. The 2025 Q8 competes directly with coupe-styled rivals like the BMW X6 and Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe[2]. Understanding where Audi’s flagship succeeds—and where it falls short—can help buyers decide whether the Q8 deserves a spot on their shortlist or whether alternatives make more sense.
Specifications Overview
| Category | 2025 Audi Q8 55 TFSI |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L Turbocharged V6 + 48V Mild Hybrid[3] |
| Horsepower | 335 hp[3] |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft[3] |
| 0-60 mph | ~5.7 seconds[2] |
| Fuel Economy | 17 city / 23 highway / 19 combined MPG[3] |
| Drivetrain | quattro AWD (standard)[3] |
| Seating Capacity | 5[3] |
| Cargo Volume | 33.7 cu ft (behind rear seats) / 60.7 cu ft (seats folded)[3] |
| Towing Capacity | 7,700 lbs (with package)[3] |
| Curb Weight | 5,027 lbs[3] |
| MSRP Range | $74,400 – $82,700[1] |
The mild hybrid system assists the turbocharged V6 during acceleration and enables smoother stop-start functionality[3]. In practice, the 48-volt system adds responsiveness off the line without fundamentally changing the driving character.
Design and Practicality
Audi derived the Q8 from the Q7 platform but gave it dramatically different proportions. The roofline slopes aggressively toward the rear, creating visual drama that distinguishes this SUV from boxier competitors[4]. At 196 inches long and 79 inches wide (86 inches with mirrors), the Q8 commands attention in parking lots[3].
That coupe-inspired styling comes with meaningful trade-offs. Where the Q7 offers three rows and maximum cargo utility, the Q8 limits occupants to five seats. Interior dimensions tell a more nuanced story: front legroom measures 41.6 inches while rear passengers enjoy 40.2 inches—spacious enough for adults on multi-hour drives[3]. Rear headroom at 38.1 inches exceeds the front row’s 37.1 inches despite the sloping glass[3].
Inside, Audi’s craftmanship continues to impress. J.D. Power reviewers noted the Q8 offers a modern and refined interior that makes daily commutes and long road trips genuinely pleasurable[2]. During a week with the Q8, the cabin proved it could rival vehicles costing substantially more.
Performance and Efficiency
Under the hood sits a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 producing 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system[3]. Working through an eight-speed automatic and Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system, the powertrain delivers confident acceleration in most driving situations.
U.S. News rates the Q8’s drive and performance at 7.6 out of 10, noting smooth and effortless steering alongside a tranquil, comfortable ride[5]. Some body roll appears during cornering, and the Q8 doesn’t match the sportiness of Audi’s dedicated performance models. Engaging Dynamic or Sport modes enhances responsiveness noticeably[5]. The braking system halts the SUV effectively, though some sensitivity exists at lower speeds[5].
Consumer reviews consistently mention one quirk: the gearing and synchronization with the stop-start system can create sluggish behavior at very low speeds in the regular drive setting[6]. Switching to Sport mode eliminates this issue but increases fuel consumption.
Car and Driver’s highway fuel economy testing returned 28 mpg—greatly exceeding the EPA’s 23 mpg highway rating[4]. For reference, a similarly equipped BMW X6 achieved 29 mpg in the same test[4]. Premium fuel is required for optimal performance.
Technology and Features
Audi offers the 2025 Q8 in three trim levels: Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige[3]. Every Q8 includes:
- 21-inch wheels and Matrix-design LED headlights
- Adaptive suspension and hands-free liftgate
- Panoramic sunroof and leather upholstery
- Heated front seats and three-zone climate control
- Audi’s Virtual Cockpit Plus digital gauge cluster
- Adaptive cruise control with lane centering
- Blind-spot monitoring and forward collision mitigation[3]
The dual-touchscreen MMI system handles most controls. J.D. Power praised the surround-view camera as especially helpful for tight parking spots, eliminating guesswork and reducing the chance of minor scrapes[2]. The adaptive cruise control deserves recognition for smooth brake and throttle inputs when maintaining distance from vehicles ahead[2].
The Premium Plus trim ($77,800) adds front seat ventilation, four-zone climate control, and the 17-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system[3]. Prestige models ($82,700) gain comfort adaptive air suspension, laser headlights, massaging front seats, head-up display, and soft-close doors[3].
For buyers wanting more performance, Audi produces the SQ8 starting at $97,600 with a 500-horsepower twin-turbo V8[1]. The RS Q8 pushes output to 631 horsepower for $136,200[1]. If electric vehicles interest you, consider the Q8 e-tron—though it shares only the name, not the platform.
Safety Ratings
The 2025 Q8 receives NHTSA’s maximum five-star overall safety rating[2]. IIHS testing reveals a more nuanced picture.
| IIHS Test | 2025 Audi Q8 Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front (Driver) | Good[7] |
| Small Overlap Front (Passenger) | Good[7] |
| Moderate Overlap (Updated Test) | Marginal[7] |
| Side Impact (Updated Test) | Good[7] |
| Roof Strength | Good[7] |
| Headlights (Prestige) | Good[7] |
| Headlights (Premium Plus) | Acceptable[7] |
| Front Crash Prevention (Pedestrian) | Advanced[7] |
| Front Crash Prevention (Vehicle-to-Vehicle) | Poor[7] |
| Seat Belt Reminders | Good[7] |
| Child Seat Anchors | Good[7] |
The “Marginal” rating on the updated moderate overlap test deserves attention. While driver injury measures earned “Good” ratings across all categories, rear passenger restraint performance showed weakness—the lap belt moved from the pelvis onto the abdomen during the crash, increasing abdominal injury risk[7]. This represents IIHS’s more stringent testing protocol.
The “Poor” rating for vehicle-to-vehicle front crash prevention reflects mixed automatic braking performance. The Q8 avoided collisions at lower speeds (31-37 mph) but only reduced impact speed partially in 43 mph tests[7]. Notably, the system struggled with motorcycle targets[7].
Ownership Costs
Edmunds estimates the five-year True Cost to Own for a 2025 Q8 Premium at $95,935, breaking down to approximately $1.28 per mile[3]. The Premium Plus increases to $98,758 ($1.32/mile), while the Prestige reaches $106,140 ($1.42/mile)[3].
| Cost Category | Premium | Premium Plus | Prestige |
|---|---|---|---|
| Depreciation (5 yr) | $37,945 | $39,100 | $44,222[3] |
| Financing | $13,843 | $14,718 | $16,153[3] |
| Fuel | $15,624 | $15,624 | $15,624[3] |
| Insurance | $5,953 | $6,134 | $5,953[3] |
| Maintenance | $9,175 | $9,175 | $9,175[3] |
| Repairs | $2,975 | $2,975 | $2,975[3] |
Independent service options exist for routine maintenance, though complex repairs typically require dealer expertise. The 3.0T engine has demonstrated reasonable durability across the Q7 and Q8 platforms, and long-term reliability data continues to improve.
Pros and Cons
Strengths:
- Standard adaptive cruise control and lane centering across all trims eliminates the frustrating upgrade packages of previous years[3]
- Front and rear seats deliver excellent legroom (41.6″ front / 40.2″ rear) with genuine all-day comfort on long drives[3]
- Interior material quality meets expectations at this price point, with high-end materials and expert panel alignment[4]
- Highway fuel economy exceeded EPA estimates by 5 mpg in Car and Driver testing, returning 28 mpg on their test loop[4]
- 7,700-pound towing capacity with trailer maneuver assist makes the Q8 genuinely capable for hauling[3]
Weaknesses:
- Less practical than the related [Q7] due to two-row-only configuration and reduced cargo volume from the sloping roofline[4]
- Marginal IIHS rating on updated moderate overlap test due to rear passenger lap belt movement during crash testing[7]
- Poor vehicle-to-vehicle front crash prevention rating reflects inconsistent automatic braking at higher speeds and with motorcycle targets[7]
- Default driving mode exhibits sluggish behavior at very low speeds due to gearing/stop-start synchronization quirks[6]
- Five-year depreciation exceeds $37,000 even on base Premium trim—significant for a $74,400 vehicle[3]
Final Verdict
The 2025 Audi Q8 delivers on its promise of flagship luxury with distinctive styling. The combination of a refined cabin, adequate powertrain performance, and real-world efficiency exceeding EPA estimates makes it a compelling choice for style-conscious buyers. Edmunds recommends the Prestige trim for those committed to Audi’s flagship—the modest price increase delivers nearly every available feature[3].
- Choose the Q8 if: You want Audi’s flagship SUV experience with coupe styling, don’t require a third row, and prioritize interior quality and highway comfort over maximum cargo space.
- Consider alternatives if: You need top crash test ratings across all categories, prefer a sportier driving experience, or want better value retention over five years.
FAQs
Is the 2025 Audi Q8 safe?
NHTSA awards the 2025 Q8 a maximum five-star overall safety rating[2]. IIHS results are mixed: “Good” ratings in small overlap and side impact tests, but a “Marginal” rating on the updated moderate overlap test and “Poor” for vehicle-to-vehicle crash prevention at higher speeds[7]. Families prioritizing rear-seat safety should weigh these results carefully.
Which 2025 Q8 trim is best?
Edmunds recommends the Prestige trim for buyers committed to Audi’s flagship SUV[3]. It requires only a modest price increase over Premium Plus and includes comfort adaptive air suspension, laser headlights, massaging front seats, and head-up display. The Prestige also unlocks exclusive options like all-wheel steering and a 23-speaker audio system.
How does the 2025 Q8 compare to the Q7?
Both SUVs share the same platform and powertrain, but the Q7 offers three rows of seating and more cargo space due to its conventional roofline[4]. The Q8 sacrifices that third row for sportier styling. Starting prices are similar, making the decision primarily about style versus practicality.
What is the real-world fuel economy of the 2025 Q8?
How much does the 2025 Q8 cost to own?
Edmunds estimates the five-year True Cost to Own at $95,935 for the Premium trim, increasing to $106,140 for the Prestige[3]. Depreciation accounts for the largest portion—approximately $38,000-$44,000 over five years depending on trim level.
References
- Audi Elk Grove. (2025). 2025 Audi Q8 Trim Levels Explained. https://www.audielkgrove.com/en/2025-audi-q8-trim-levels/
- J.D. Power. (2025). 2025 Audi Q8 Review. https://www.jdpower.com/cars/expert-reviews/2025-audi-q8-review
- Edmunds. (2025). 2025 Audi Q8 Trims Comparison. https://www.edmunds.com/audi/q8/2025/trims/
- Car and Driver. (2025). 2026 Audi Q8 Review, Pricing, and Specs. https://www.caranddriver.com/audi/q8
- U.S. News & World Report. (2025). 2025 Audi Q8 Review. https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/audi/q8
- Edmunds. (2025). 2025 Audi Q8 Consumer Reviews. https://www.edmunds.com/audi/q8/2025/consumer-reviews/
- IIHS. (2025). 2025 Audi Q8 Safety Ratings. https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/audi/q8-4-door-suv/2025
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.
