The 2024 Audi SQ8 delivers 500 horsepower from a twin-turbo V8 that rockets to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds—matching many sports cars[1]. Starting at $96,600, this performance SUV combines coupe styling with usable daily practicality, though buyers pay for that power at the pump[2].
The SQ8 sits in a sweet spot between the standard 2024 Audi Q8 (335 hp) and the track-focused RS Q8 (591 hp, $125,800). For most buyers, the SQ8's blend of refinement and V8 thrust hits the mark. Kelley Blue Book notes it as "a good buy for most luxury mid-size SUV shoppers," with most buyers paying below sticker price[3].
That said, fuel economy suffers. The EPA rates the SQ8 at just 17 mpg combined—15 city, 21 highway[4]. And premium gasoline is required. Your mileage may vary, but plan for frequent fill-ups if you drive aggressively.
| Trim | MSRP | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Premium Plus | $96,600 | 4.0L twin-turbo V8, 500 hp, quattro AWD, adaptive air suspension, 21" wheels, Bang & Olufsen audio, panoramic roof[2] |
| Prestige | $103,600 | Adds HD Matrix LED headlights with laser light, head-up display, ventilated/massage seats, power soft-closing doors[5] |
Audi's official MSRP starts at $96,600, with the destination charge adding $1,195[6]. Fully optioned, an SQ8 Prestige with the S Sport package, Black Optic package, and 23-inch wheels reaches $113,745[6]. Kelley Blue Book suggests fair purchase pricing between $88,250 and $93,424—meaning there's negotiation room[3].
For buyers wondering what MSRP actually means, the key takeaway is that sticker price and transaction price often differ, especially on slower-selling luxury models.
The SQ8's heart is a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 producing 500 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque[1]. That power routes through an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission to standard quattro all-wheel drive.
Car and Driver estimates 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds, quarter-mile in 12.2 seconds, and a top speed of 155 mph (electronically limited)[1]. SlashGear notes these figures feel conservative in real-world driving—the V8 delivers thrust that pins you to your seat[7].
The 2024 facelift brings revised suspension tuning. Standard adaptive air suspension with sport settings keeps body roll minimal while absorbing impacts cleanly[8]. Steering response is quick but "a touch vague" at low speeds, tightening up as pace increases. The SQ8 feels more composed than its 6,000-pound curb weight suggests[1].
And the sound? The twin-turbo V8 produces a deep, menacing burble at idle and a genuine growl under acceleration[8]. (Full disclosure: there's something satisfying about a V8 in an era of forced electrification.)
| Specification | Rating |
|---|---|
| EPA City | 15 mpg[4] |
| EPA Highway | 21 mpg[4] |
| EPA Combined | 17 mpg[4] |
| Fuel Type | Premium Gasoline Required |
The SQ8's fuel economy is its biggest weakness. At 17 mpg combined, you're looking at roughly 5.9 gallons per 100 miles[4]. Comparatively, the Mercedes-Benz GLE gets 19 city/26 highway—significantly better[9].
Real-world driving typically drops those EPA numbers further, especially with aggressive throttle use. Budget accordingly. The catch? If you want V8 power in this class, mediocre fuel economy comes with the territory.
For buyers concerned about how many gallons of gas a car holds, the SQ8's fuel tank should require frequent premium fill-ups given that consumption rate.
The 2024 SQ8 receives interior updates including new inlay options (fine grain ash and carbon twill) and enhanced infotainment software[10]. Typical Audi build quality applies—premium Valcona leather, tight panel gaps, and quality materials throughout.
Standard features include:
The Prestige trim adds massage function for front seats, head-up display, sunshades, and power soft-closing doors[10]. Some owners note the infotainment system feels intuitive overall, though minor throttle lag complaints exist with the six-cylinder Q8—the V8 SQ8 doesn't share that issue[11].
Audi doesn't charge extra for Apple CarPlay—wireless smartphone integration comes standard.
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| IIHS Moderate Overlap Front | Good[12] |
| IIHS Front Crash Prevention (Pedestrian) | A rating[12] |
The SQ8 shares its platform with the Q8, which performs well in IIHS testing. The pedestrian automatic emergency braking system earned an "A" rating, successfully avoiding collisions in child and adult crossing scenarios[12].
Standard safety equipment includes Audi pre sense front and rear, adaptive cruise assist with lane guidance, intersection assist, and park assist with remote parking capability[10]. The 2024 update adds OLED taillight technology for improved visibility and updated adaptive cruise assist[10].
| Specification | 2024 Audi SQ8 | BMW X6 M50i | Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $96,600[2] | ~$90,000 | ~$87,500 |
| Horsepower | 500 hp[1] | 523 hp | 429 hp |
| 0-60 mph | 3.6 sec[1] | 4.1 sec | 5.2 sec |
| EPA Combined | 17 mpg[4] | 18 mpg | 20 mpg |
| Curb Weight | ~6,000 lb[1] | 5,423 lb | 5,335 lb |
The SQ8 undercuts the BMW X6 M50i on acceleration despite costing more. BMW maintenance costs tend to run high, making total ownership cost comparable between the two.
The Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 offers better fuel economy and a lower starting price, but with less power and slower acceleration. Its inline-six with EQ Boost hybrid delivers 429 hp versus the SQ8's 500 hp V8—a noticeable difference when merging onto highways or passing slower traffic.
For those prioritizing electrification, the 2024 Audi SQ8 e-tron offers 496 hp with zero emissions—though range limitations apply.
Limited long-term reliability data exists for the 2024 facelift, but owner reports reveal some concerns. Parts availability can be an issue—one Reddit user documented a water pump failure requiring a week to get replacement parts, and a fuel line issue took a month due to backorders[13].
Another owner described significant collision repair challenges, with costs reaching $35,000 and essential parts on extended backorder from Germany[13]. The complexity of the SQ8's systems means repairs can be expensive and time-consuming.
That said, owners generally praise the driving experience, build quality, and V8 character. Understanding how many miles an Audi can last depends heavily on maintenance—and whether Audi can be serviced anywhere or requires dealer-only work.
Warranty coverage includes 4 years/50,000 miles basic, 4 years/50,000 miles powertrain, 12 years/unlimited miles corrosion perforation, and 4 years/unlimited miles roadside assistance[10].
Choose the SQ8 if you:
Consider alternatives if you:
The 2025 Audi SQ8 carries forward with minimal changes, making 2024 inventory potentially attractive if dealers offer incentives. For buyers exploring the broader Audi SUV lineup, the SQ8 remains one of the most engaging options.
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