Audi Q8 Review

The competition in the luxury mid-to-large SUV market has always revolved around space, configuration, and driving quality. As Audi's iconic crossover SUV, the Q8 has long held a strong position with its unique coupe-style design and advanced technology features. With the arrival of the 2024 model, there is much curiosity about whether it can maintain its advantages while optimizing details. This test drive will focus on verifying its sense of luxury in static experience, its dynamic performance balance, and its core competitiveness in the same class.

The exterior design of the 2024 Q8 continues the brand's signature octagonal single-frame grille, paired with robust chrome trim, giving it a highly recognizable look. The side profile maintains the classic fastback lines, with a smooth and natural curve extending from the A-pillar to the rear. The 20-inch alloy wheels (front and rear 275/50 R20) are proportionally coordinated with the vehicle's body, enhancing its sporty appeal. In the rear, the continuous LED taillights display Audi's iconic dynamic effects when lit, while the dual exhaust outlets hint at its fuel-powered nature. The lighting system comes standard across all variants with LED sources, including automatic headlights, daytime running lights, and front and rear fog lights, balancing practicality and visual appeal.

Inside the cabin, the interior adopts Audi's latest Virtual Cockpit design, with a center console featuring a 10.1-inch touchscreen and a full LCD instrument panel. The operation logic is clear, and the response is smooth. The multifunction steering wheel is equipped with paddle shifters and a heating function (if equipped on the model) and offers a solid grip. In terms of materials, the center console and door panels are extensively wrapped in soft-touch materials, complemented by metallic accents and piano black trim, delivering an impressive sense of luxury. For seating, the driver's seat is equipped with electric adjustment and memory functions, while the passenger seat also features electric adjustment. The rear seats support a 40:20:40 split-folding configuration, offering excellent flexibility. In terms of space, the vehicle measures 4,986mm in length, 1,995mm in width, and 1,705mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,995mm. The front row provides approximately a fist and two fingers of headroom, and the rear row offers up to two fists of legroom, ensuring comfort for passengers up to 180cm tall. The trunk offers a standard capacity of 605L, which can be expanded further by folding the rear seats, catering to family trips or the transportation of large items.

In terms of powertrain, the 2024 Q8 is equipped with a 3.0T V6 turbocharged engine producing a maximum output of 340PS and a peak torque of 500N·m. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and a quattro all-wheel-drive system. The official 0-100km/h acceleration time is 5.9 seconds. During actual driving, the power response is quick during take-off, and turbo lag is almost negligible. Acceleration in the mid-to-high range remains strong; when overtaking, a deep press of the accelerator prompts the transmission to downshift quickly, delivering a sustained sense of push-back. The driving modes include Comfort, Auto, and Dynamic, among others. Switching to Dynamic mode enhances throttle sensitivity, and the steering feel becomes heavier, making the driving experience more engaging. The suspension consists of a front double-wishbone and rear multi-link independent design. While tuned for comfort, it retains a degree of support. When passing over speed bumps or uneven roads, the suspension effectively filters out vibrations, keeping the vehicle stable. During cornering, body roll is kept within a reasonable range, and the quattro all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent rear-end traction, resulting in stable overall handling performance.

In terms of fuel consumption, the official combined fuel consumption is 8.9L/100km. During the actual test drive, the fuel consumption in urban conditions was about 11-12L/100km, while on highways it dropped to 7-8L/100km, meeting the expectations for a 3.0T model. The braking performance is excellent, with a linear brake pedal travel, uniform braking force release, and stable body posture during emergency braking without noticeable nosedive. Regarding noise control, wind and tire noise are well suppressed during high-speed driving, and although engine noise can be heard in the cabin at high RPMs, it is not harsh. Overall, the NVH performance is up to the standard of a luxury SUV.

The core advantage of the 2024 Audi Q8 lies in its balanced product strength: luxurious interior design, ample space, powerful performance, and stable handling. Compared with its competitors like the BMW X6 and Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe in the same class, the Q8 offers more advantages in terms of technological features (such as the virtual cockpit and HUD head-up display) and the maturity of the all-wheel-drive system. Additionally, the price (reference: 2019 model RM 867,422) is relatively more affordable. It is suitable for consumers who pursue a sense of luxury, value driving quality, and have family travel needs, providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience whether for daily commuting or long-distance trips.

Overall, the 2024 Audi Q8 continues the luxury DNA of the brand while maintaining high standards in power and handling, making it a midsize luxury SUV that balances practicality with driving pleasure. If you are looking for a model that is equally suitable for business occasions and family needs, the Q8 is definitely worth adding to your consideration list.