Q8 is the newest original SUV in Audi’s lineup. The company is now focused on the development of SQ and electric versions of existing models. The 2022 Audi Q8 is going to be unchanged, with small updates inside the cockpit. Although its name suggests that the SUV is larger than the Q7, that is not the case. The older sibling is 2.5 inches longer, while both vehicles are using the same 118-inch wheelbase.
The new vehicle brought a fresh dimension to the lineup. On the other hand, there is no spectacular or breathtaking features that will make the 2022 Audi Q8 so unique. The SUV is stylish and practical, but there are many better ways to spend $70,000. The company made the SQ8 available right from the start, which is a big plus. On the other hand, turbo lags can be annoying, first impressions are reporting. One thing is sure – you will get plenty of equipment.
2022 Audi Q8 Specs
The big rig is going to use a turbocharged V6 engine. A 3.0-liter displacement is tuned to return 335 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. We can get the same outputs from its older sibling, Q7. Also, the main German rivals by BMW and Mercedes are close to those numbers. Standard edition is using the Quattro all-wheel drive system and returns 18/23 mpg. The system is stepping up with impressive 7,700 pounds of towing capacity.
The 2022 Audi SQ8 is a match to the SQ7 with 500 horsepower coming from a 4.0-liter twin-turbo setup. It also adds 568 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission is smooth and features paddle shifters. The SQ8 is able to tow as much as the regular SUV. On the other hand, it will impress you with acceleration and max speed. It will take 3.5-seconds before the vehicle makes it to the 60 mph mark.
Trim Levels
The new model is available with refreshed old trim levels. The base vehicle is going to be Premium and it comes with a sunroof and 3-zone climate control. Interesting, the 2022 Audi Q8 is a five-seater and it doesn’t offer the third row, like Q7. Nevertheless, the German carmaker makes it up to fans and buyers with premium materials and advanced equipment. Even the starting package is going to offer intelligent tailgate and heated seats.
Moving to the Premium Plus version, you will get ventilated front row and a heated steering wheel. The package also brings wireless charging. The top-view camera and phone signal boosters are some cool additions. Premium Plus is the base package for the SQ8. The top of the line model is going to be the 2022 Audi Q8 Prestige. The manufacturer will try to impress buyers with Matrix headlights and animated taillights. Leather upholstery spreads to the dashboard. Drivers will have a lot of help from the assistance bundle. Lane-keep and departure are part of the package, as well as the blind-spot monitor, active cruise control, and the Audi Pre-Sense Plus feature.
Competition
Mid-size SUV class with two rows of seats is not quite popular nowadays. There are models with a capacity for seven occupants, which is attractive to larger families. Of course, in most cases, you can turn these SUVs into two-row models by folding back seats. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more efficient drive, then compact crossovers are the best choice. This type of vehicle is dominating the crossover/SUV market.
However, the 2022 Audi Q8 will have its buyers as well. The vehicle offers plenty of space for passengers and leaves room for cargo. Of course, archrivals are BMW and Mercedes. Two-row versions are available both for X5 and GLE. Acura MDX, Infiniti QX60 and Lexus RX are alternatives if you prefer Japanese carmakers. Hyundai recently launched the Genesis GV80 premium SUV. However, this one is not proven yet. Lincoln Aviator and Cadillac XT6 are US-based models.
Check out Best 2021 Mid-Size Two-Row SUVs
2022 Audi Q8 Price
The 2022 Audi Q8 will keep the price at the same level as before. The MSRP of the SUV is pretty high already. With destination, it will be just under $70,000. Premium Plus adds $5,000 in features, and you need to spend another $5k if you want Prestige trim. The SQ8 is the most expensive thanks to the powerful V8 motor. $90,000 is the base price, Prestige package will cost you $5,000 and with some optional upgrades, the total will exceed $100,000.
