The 2019 Audi Q8 delivers luxury SUV excellence with its distinctive coupe-inspired design and robust performance capabilities. Starting at $68,395 for the Premium trim, this five-passenger luxury SUV features a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The Q8 achieves 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds while maintaining an impressive 7,700-pound towing capacity. With EPA fuel economy ratings of 17 mpg city, 22 mpg highway, and 19 mpg combined, real-world testing shows highway efficiency can reach 25-28 mpg under optimal conditions. Available in three trim levelsβPremium ($68,395), Premium Plus, and Prestige ($77,545)βthe Q8 competes against BMW X6, Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, and Porsche Cayenne. Standard features include quattro all-wheel drive, adaptive air suspension, heated front seats, and panoramic sunroof. Current used 2019 Q8 models trade between $25,000 to $37,000 depending on trim and mileage. The Q8 prioritizes style and driving engagement over maximum utility, making it ideal for affluent buyers seeking premium craftsmanship.
The 2019 Audi Q8 represents Audi's flagship SUV achievement. This isn't just another luxury vehicle. It's a statement piece.
The coupe-inspired silhouette sets it apart immediately. While competitors stick to traditional SUV boxes, Audi took risks. The sloping roofline sacrifices practicality for pure visual drama.
The heart of this machine beats strong. 335 horsepower flows from a sophisticated 3.0-liter TFSI V6. This isn't just raw powerβit's refined strength.
369 lb-ft of torque arrives early and stays long. Peak torque kicks in at just 1,370 RPM and holds until 4,500 RPM. This broad powerband makes acceleration feel effortless.
Real-world testing proves the specs. 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds puts sports cars to shame. The eight-speed tiptronic transmission shifts with German precision.
Quattro all-wheel drive comes standard on every Q8. This legendary system doesn't just handle snow and rain. It transforms handling on dry pavement too.
Step inside and luxury surrounds you. Premium materials create an environment worthy of the price tag.
Genuine leather wraps nearly everything. Brushed aluminum trim adds modern elegance. Soft-touch surfaces eliminate hard plastics.
The dual-screen MMI infotainment system represents Audi's tech leadership. Upper and lower displays handle different functions. This reduces button clutter while improving usability.
Standard heated front seats provide winter comfort. Panoramic sunroof opens the cabin to sky. Higher trims add massaging seats and ambient lighting.
Key takeaways:
The 2019 Audi Q8 launched with three distinct trim levels. Each targeted specific luxury buyer segments with carefully chosen feature sets.
Trim Level | Original MSRP | Key Standard Features | Target Buyer |
---|---|---|---|
Premium 55 TFSI quattro | $68,395 | Heated seats, panoramic roof, LED lights, MMI system, quattro AWD | Entry luxury buyers seeking premium value |
Premium Plus 55 TFSI quattro | $72,000 (est.) | 360-degree camera, 21-inch wheels, Bang & Olufsen audio, driver assists | Technology enthusiasts and safety-focused buyers |
Prestige 55 TFSI quattro | $77,545 | Massaging seats, head-up display, premium leather, four-zone climate | Ultimate luxury seekers wanting top-tier amenities |
Today's used 2019 Audi Q8 market tells an interesting depreciation story. Five years later, these luxury SUVs hold respectable value.
Low-mileage examples with under 50,000 miles command $30,000 to $37,000. Higher-mileage vehicles approaching 80,000+ miles trade around $25,000 to $30,000.
Depreciation rates show the Q8 losing approximately 55-60% of original value after five years. This matches luxury SUV segment averages. BMW X6 and Mercedes GLE Coupe show similar patterns.
Regional pricing varies significantly. California and Northeast markets command premiums. Midwest and South offer better value opportunities.
Beyond purchase price, Q8 ownership involves several ongoing expenses. Insurance premiums run higher than mainstream SUVs. Luxury classification and higher repair costs drive rates up.
Annual maintenance follows Audi's premium service schedule. Expect $1,800 to $2,800 yearly depending on mileage. Premium fuel adds roughly $400-600 annually over regular gas.
Extended warranty consideration becomes crucial. Complex electronic systems can fail expensively. Third-party warranties offer alternatives to expensive dealer coverage.
Key takeaways:
The 2019 Audi Q8 features one powertrain across all trims. This 3.0-liter TFSI V6 represents advanced German engineering at its finest.
Specification Category | Technical Details | Real-World Impact |
---|---|---|
Engine Architecture | 3.0L V6 Turbo TFSI with mild hybrid | Smooth power delivery with efficiency gains |
Power Output | 335 hp @ 5,700 RPM | Strong acceleration across wide RPM range |
Torque Production | 369 lb-ft @ 1,370-4,500 RPM | Excellent low-end response for daily driving |
Transmission | 8-speed Tiptronic Automatic | Quick, smooth shifts in all driving modes |
Drivetrain | Quattro AWD Standard | Superior traction in all weather conditions |
Acceleration | 0-60 mph: 5.6 seconds | Sports car performance in SUV package |
Top Speed | 155 mph (electronically limited) | Adequate for unrestricted highway driving |
Towing Capacity | 7,700 pounds | Class-leading capability for boats and trailers |
EPA ratings show 17 mpg city, 22 mpg highway, and 19 mpg combined. These numbers seem modest for modern luxury SUVs. However, real-world experience tells a different story.
Highway efficiency often exceeds EPA estimates. Extended cruising at 65-75 mph can achieve 25-28 mpg. The mild-hybrid system helps during city stop-and-go driving.
Premium fuel requirement adds operating costs but ensures optimal performance. The direct injection system demands higher octane for maximum power output.
Annual fuel costs average $2,400-2,800 based on 15,000 miles of mixed driving. This assumes $3.50 per gallon premium fuel pricing.
Despite its coupe-inspired styling, the Q8 maximizes interior utility. 196.6 inches of overall length provides surprising room inside.
Passenger space accommodates five adults comfortably. 117.9-inch wheelbase creates generous legroom front and rear. Even tall passengers find adequate headroom despite the sloping roof.
Cargo capacity offers 28.6 cubic feet behind rear seats. This expands to 60+ cubic feet with seats folded. Wide opening and low load floor simplify loading large items.
Key takeaways:
The Audi Q8 and BMW X6 battle for coupe-SUV supremacy. Both sacrifice practicality for style. But which delivers better value?
Comparison Factor | 2019 Audi Q8 | 2019 BMW X6 | Winner |
---|---|---|---|
Starting Price | $68,395 | $66,100 (est.) | BMW X6 (marginal) |
Base Horsepower | 335 hp | 335 hp | Tie |
Torque Output | 369 lb-ft | 330 lb-ft | Audi Q8 |
0-60 MPH | 5.6 seconds | 5.5 seconds | BMW X6 (marginal) |
EPA Combined | 19 mpg | 23 mpg | BMW X6 |
Towing Capacity | 7,700 lbs | 7,200 lbs | Audi Q8 |
Standard Features | More comprehensive | Fewer included | Audi Q8 |
Technology | Dual-screen MMI | iDrive system | Subjective preference |
Performance comparison reveals interesting trade-offs. The Q8's superior torque provides stronger acceleration feel despite similar 0-60 times. BMW's better fuel economy appeals to efficiency-minded buyers.
Interior quality slightly favors Audi. Material selection and build quality feel more premium. However, BMW's driving dynamics edge ahead for enthusiast drivers.
The Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe offers different luxury philosophy. Traditional comfort versus technological sophistication defines this rivalry.
Design approaches differ significantly. Mercedes emphasizes flowing curves while Audi prefers sharp angles. Both create dramatic presence but appeal to different tastes.
Technology integration varies between German philosophies. Mercedes MBUX relies heavily on voice control. Audi MMI emphasizes intuitive touch interfaces.
Pricing strategies show Mercedes starting higher. GLE Coupe began around $75,000 versus Q8's $68,395. This $6,605 difference makes Audi more accessible.
Reliability concerns historically favor Audi slightly. Mercedes complexity sometimes creates more service visits. However, both require premium maintenance schedules.
Key takeaways:
The 2019 Audi Q8 leads luxury SUV safety technology. Standard features exceed many competitors' optional equipment lists.
Audi Pre Sense Front uses radar and cameras for collision warning. Automatic emergency braking engages when drivers don't respond quickly enough. Pedestrian detection works day and night.
Traffic Jam Assist provides semi-autonomous driving up to 40 mph. This combines adaptive cruise control with lane centering. Highway traffic becomes less stressful.
Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert prevents parking lot accidents. 360-degree camera system shows bird's-eye view for tight spaces.
Adaptive cruise control maintains following distance automatically. Lane keeping assistance provides gentle steering inputs. These systems work together creating Level 2 autonomy.
The dual-screen MMI system represents Audi's technological leadership. Upper display handles navigation and media. Lower touchscreen manages climate and vehicle settings.
Audi Virtual Cockpit replaces analog gauges with 12.3-inch digital display. Drivers customize layouts for different priorities. Navigation maps, performance data, or traditional gaugesβchoice is yours.
Smartphone integration includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Wireless charging keeps devices powered. Multiple USB ports ensure connectivity for all passengers.
Bang & Olufsen premium audio creates concert-hall acoustics. 23 speakers with 1,920 watts deliver immersive sound. Even audiophiles appreciate the quality.
Four-zone climate control allows individual temperature preferences. Each passenger controls their environment independently. Heated and ventilated seats extend comfort seasons.
Massaging front seats reduce fatigue during long drives. Memory settings adjust seat, mirrors, and steering wheel positions. Hands-free liftgate simplifies loading with full arms.
Ambient lighting with multiple color choices sets interior mood. Power-adjustable steering column finds perfect driving position. Auto-dimming mirrors reduce night glare automatically.
Key takeaways:
Five years of ownership data reveals mixed reliability patterns. Mechanical components prove generally solid. Electronic systems show more variability.
Common problems include starter motor issues within first 50,000 miles. Door handle sensors occasionally malfunction affecting keyless entry. Parking sensors can become overly sensitive or fail completely.
Positive feedback consistently highlights engine reliability. The 3.0-liter V6 delivers consistent performance without major failures. Transmission smoothness receives praise from most owners.
Build quality maintains Audi's premium reputation. Interior materials hold up well to daily use. Exterior fit and finish remains tight after years of ownership.
J.D. Power reliability scores place the 2019 Q8 above average for luxury SUVs. This represents improvement over earlier Audi models. However, it still trails Lexus and Genesis reliability leaders.
Regular maintenance following Audi's schedule prevents most problems. 10,000-mile service intervals seem long but work well with synthetic oil. 40,000-mile services cost significantly more.
Dealer service varies widely by location. Urban markets typically offer better technician training. Rural areas may lack Q8-specific expertise. Independent specialists often provide better value.
Parts availability has improved compared to launch year. Common wear items stock readily. Electronic components may require longer waits. Genuine parts command premium pricing.
Extended warranty consideration becomes important after 4 years/50,000 miles. Third-party options cost less than Audi's programs. Powertrain coverage matters most for expensive repairs.
Annual maintenance averages $1,800-2,500 depending on mileage and driving conditions. Premium fuel adds $400-600 yearly over regular gas. Insurance runs 15-25% higher than mainstream SUVs.
Depreciation follows luxury SUV patterns. First year drops 20-25% of original value. Years 2-3 lose another 15-20% annually. Five-year retention settles around 40-45% of MSRP.
Total cost of ownership over five years ranges $35,000-45,000 beyond purchase price. This includes maintenance, fuel, insurance, and major repairs. Luxury ownership demands significant budgets.
Key takeaways:
The 2019 Audi Q8 appeals to specific luxury buyer segments. Style-conscious professionals who want SUV capability without traditional boxy appearance find perfect match.
Empty nesters benefit from generous passenger space without paying for unused third row. Weekend adventurers appreciate 7,700-pound towing capacity for boats and travel trailers.
Technology enthusiasts love the dual-screen MMI system and Virtual Cockpit. Safety-conscious families value comprehensive driver assistance features.
Business executives appreciate sophisticated presence that projects success. Driving enthusiasts enjoy engaging dynamics that many luxury SUVs lack.
Current used pricing makes Q8 ownership more accessible. $25,000-35,000 buys significant luxury and capability. Five-year-old examples offer $40,000+ savings over new prices.
Competition comparison shows Q8 advantages. More standard features than BMW X6. Better technology than Mercedes GLE Coupe. Stronger towing than most rivals.
Depreciation considerations work both ways. Heavy initial loss hurts original buyers. Current buyers benefit from worst depreciation already absorbed.
Financing availability remains strong. Certified pre-owned programs offer warranty protection. Third-party warranties provide additional peace of mind.
Fuel economy lags hybrid competitors. 19 mpg combined costs more than efficient alternatives. Premium fuel requirement adds ongoing expense.
Reliability concerns center on electronics. Complex systems can fail expensively after warranty. Independent repair options remain limited.
Cargo space sacrifices practicality for style. 28.6 cubic feet trails traditional SUVs. Loading height challenges some users despite power liftgate.
Maintenance costs follow luxury patterns. $2,000+ annually for proper service. Genuine parts cost significantly more than mainstream alternatives.
Key takeaways:
Last updated: July 28, 2025. Pricing and specifications subject to change. Data verified from multiple automotive sources including Edmunds, Car and Driver, Audi USA, and TrueCar. All pricing reflects US market conditions as of mid-2025.
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