Quick answer: The 2025 Audi SQ8 is a high-performance luxury SUV that bridges the gap between the standard Q8 and the track-focused RS Q8. Powered by a 500-horsepower twin-turbo V8, it starts at $98,895 for the Premium Plus trim and $104,795 for the Prestige model. It delivers near-supercar acceleration of 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds, but is hindered by an EPA-rated 15 mpg city fuel economy and minor software glitches in the MMI infotainment system.
Key takeaways:
- Dual personality: The SQ8 serves as both a refined executive cruiser in Comfort mode and an athletic performer in Dynamic mode.
- Understated V8 performance: Its twin-turbo V8 shares a platform and engine architecture with the Lamborghini Urus at less than half the price.
- Pricing and trims: MSRP starts at $98,895 for the Premium Plus and rises to $104,795 for the Prestige, with new Carbon and Audi Sport packages available.
- Space and utility: The SUV seats five passengers with 30.5 cubic feet of cargo volume behind the second row, expanding to 60.7 cubic feet.
- Safety and reliability: Earning a NHTSA 5-star rating but only a Marginal rating in IIHS’s updated moderate overlap test, with some owners reporting early software bugs.
Why the SQ8 Represents the V8 Sweet Spot
Audi positions the 2025 Audi SQ8 as the performance sweet spot in its midsize SUV lineup. While the standard Q8 offers entry-level luxury and the flagship RS Q8 targets absolute track performance, the SQ8 provides a balanced alternative. It shares its mechanical foundation – the Volkswagen Group MLB Evo platform – with premium performance SUVs like the Lamborghini Urus, Bentley Bentayga, and Porsche Cayenne.
This platform sharing gives the SQ8 a high-end mechanical pedigree. For buyers navigating the Audi SQ8 category, this vehicle represents the peak of V8 capability before stepping into extreme track-oriented models. It offers U.S. buyers a blend of luxury presence and V8 performance, serving as an understated alternative to flashier high-end SUVs.
2025 Audi SQ8 Pricing, Trims, and Option Packages
The 2025 Audi SQ8 is offered in two distinct trim levels: Premium Plus and Prestige. Both models feature the same twin-turbocharged V8 powertrain and quattro all-wheel-drive system.
| Trim Level | Starting MSRP (Base) | MSRP with Destination ($1,295) |
|---|---|---|
| Premium Plus | $97,600 | $98,895 |
| Prestige | $103,500 | $104,795 |
The Premium Plus trim comes well-equipped with standard features, including adaptive air suspension, all-wheel steering, matrix-design LED headlights, and a Bang & Olufsen premium sound system.
Stepping up to the Prestige trim adds standard luxury features such as power soft-closing doors, a head-up display, heated rear seats, and intersection assist. For the 2025 model year, Audi has made the remote park assist plus and the LED interior lighting package plus standard on both trims.
Buyers can further customize their vehicles with new appearance packages. The Carbon Package ($1,100) adds carbon fiber exterior mirrors, door inlays, and rear light decorations. The Audi Sport Package ($1,200) introduces red interior contrast stitching and full red seatbelts.
Engine Specifications, Performance, and Fuel Economy
At the heart of the SQ8 is a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged TFSI V8 engine, paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The engine produces 500 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque, with peak torque arriving at a low 2,000 rpm. This power is routed through an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and Audi’s signature quattro all-wheel-drive system.
Mechanically, this powertrain enables impressive speed. In independent testing, the SQ8 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds, covering the quarter-mile in 12.2 seconds. The standard all-wheel steering reduces the turning circle at low speeds and improves stability at high speeds, while the electromechanical active roll stabilization limits body lean during cornering.
However, V8 performance comes with high fuel consumption. The EPA rates the SQ8 at:
- City: 15 mpg
- Highway: 21 mpg
- Combined: 17 mpg
These figures require premium unleaded fuel. In real-world highway testing, automotive reviewers have recorded average fuel economy closer to 19.8 mpg, depending on driving habits and driving modes.
Interior Layout, Tech, and Cargo Space
The cabin of the SQ8 features diamond-stitched leather sport seats, carbon vector interior trim, and standard heated and ventilated front seats. The dashboard layout is dominated by Audi’s dual-touchscreen MMI infotainment system, consisting of a 10.1-inch upper screen for navigation and media, and an 8.6-inch lower screen for climate controls and vehicle settings.
While the touchscreens are responsive and offer haptic feedback, the lack of physical buttons for primary climate functions can be distracting while driving. Standard tech features include Audi Virtual Cockpit, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot.
In terms of utility, the SQ8 offers the following cargo specifications:
- Cargo volume behind second row: 30.5 cubic feet
- Cargo volume with second row folded: 60.7 cubic feet
- Maximum towing capacity: 7,700 lbs
While passenger room in both rows is spacious, interior cubby storage is somewhat limited compared to boxier midsize SUVs.
Safety Ratings and Driver-Assistance Systems
The Q8 platform, which underpins the SQ8, has undergone crash testing by major safety organizations. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the platform an overall 5-star safety rating.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) evaluated the 2025 Audi Q8 and awarded it Good ratings in the driver-side small overlap front, passenger-side small overlap front, and original side crash tests. However, in the IIHS’s updated moderate overlap front test, the platform received a Marginal rating (the second-lowest rating) due to elevated risks of rear-passenger injury during frontal collisions.
Standard active safety features on both trims include:
- Adaptive cruise assist with lane guidance
- Audi pre sense front (forward collision warning and automated emergency braking)
- Audi side assist (blind-spot monitoring) and rear cross-traffic assist
- Lane departure warning
How It Compares: SQ8 vs. X5 M vs. GLE 63 S
The 2025 Audi SQ8 competes in the high-performance midsize luxury SUV segment. Its primary rivals are the BMW X5 M Competition and the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S.
| Feature / Spec | 2025 Audi SQ8 | 2025 BMW X5 M Competition | 2025 Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 | 4.4L Twin-Turbo V8 | 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 |
| Horsepower | 500 hp | 617 hp | 603 hp |
| Torque | 568 lb-ft | 553 lb-ft | 627 lb-ft |
| 0-60 mph Time | 3.6 seconds | 3.7 seconds | 3.7 seconds |
| EPA Fuel Economy | 15 / 21 / 17 mpg | 13 / 18 / 15 mpg | 14 / 19 / 16 mpg |
| Base MSRP | $98,895 | $127,200 | $130,800 |
| Character | Refined and Understated | Aggressive and Track-Focused | Tech-Heavy and Luxurious |
Compared to its German rivals, the SQ8 is down on horsepower but matches them in real-world acceleration due to its rapid power delivery. The primary advantage of the SQ8 is pricing: it starts roughly $28,000 less than the X5 M Competition and $31,000 less than the GLE 63 S, making it a compelling value for buyers seeking premium V8 performance under $100,000.
Verdict: Is the 2025 Audi SQ8 Worth Buying?
The 2025 Audi SQ8 represents a strong option for buyers seeking high-performance V8 capabilities without drawing excessive attention. It delivers nearly identical acceleration to the Lamborghini Urus while costing less than half the price.
Compared to the previous 2024 Audi SQ8 review, the 2025 model year offers better value by standardizing the LED interior lighting package plus and adding new exterior styling options. However, buyers should weigh these performance benefits against high fuel costs and minor MMI software bugs.
Buy the SQ8 if:
- You want high-performance twin-turbo V8 power in an understated executive package.
- You are seeking supercar-level platform engineering under $100,000.
- You prioritize a smooth ride via adaptive air suspension over track-stiff suspension setups.
Avoid the SQ8 if:
- You require a third row of seating (the three-row Audi SQ7 shares the same engine for a lower starting price).
- You want physical climate control buttons and knobs.
- You need maximum fuel efficiency for daily city commuting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2025 Audi SQ8 reliable?
The mechanical components of the SQ8, including the 4.0-liter V8 and 8-speed automatic transmission, are highly durable. However, some owners of 2024 and 2025 models have reported software-related bugs in the MMI infotainment system, door locking mechanisms, and occasional drivetrain warning lights. These issues are typically resolved via dealer software updates.
What is the difference between the SQ8 and RS Q8?
The Audi RS Q8 is a more track-focused version. It produces 591 horsepower (and 631 hp for the RS Q8 Performance) compared to the SQ8’s 500 hp. The RS Q8 has wider fenders, more aggressive styling, and a starting price of approximately $137,000 – roughly $38,000 more than the SQ8.
How does the SQ8 compare to the SQ7?
Both vehicles share the same 500-horsepower twin-turbo V8 engine and transmission. The primary difference is body style and utility: the SQ7 features three rows of seats for up to seven passengers, whereas the SQ8 features a sportier, coupe-like roofline with seating for five. The SQ7 starts around $6,800 less than the SQ8.
Is the Audi SQ8 worth the money?
Yes, for buyers looking for a high-performance V8 SUV. The SQ8 offers platform dynamics similar to the Porsche Cayenne Coupe and Lamborghini Urus at a lower price point. However, buyers must be prepared for luxury-car maintenance costs and high fuel bills.
