Experts believe that the 2023 Audi Q8 is bringing only minor changes. The big SUV is still new, with some eye-catching details and solutions. Small updates might include a retune of SQ and RS models. Also, we expect to see a vehicle based on e-tron technology. For now, a V6 and V8 are potential drivetrains, depending on the buyer’s wish. The RS Q8 is a high-end option with 591 horsepower.
The company will try to fix the downsides of the SUV. Well, potential buyers are not getting any discount, and that is the major problem. Starting price in a combination with low efficiency is not making the 2023 Audi Q8 a budget-friendly vehicle. On the other hand, the performance can make it up a bit, especially at higher levels. All-wheel drive is standard and the driving impression is unique. Interior is packed with advanced options and modern features. However, the aggressive styling left tight space for cargo.
2023 Audi Q8 Pricing and Release Date
Since the company is not making big changes, the new 2023 Audi Q8 will come quietly. The focus is on the Q4 and its Sportback variant, as well as the RS version of the A3 sedan. The Q8 SUV is still one of the most attractive vehicles in the lineup. Before Audi makes bigger changes there, expect a redesign of its older siblings. Plus, the Q9 is also an option, since the company obtained rights for all nameplates in the range Q1-Q9.
The base MSRP of the Q8 stays put. Offers are starting from $71,000 and every next trim adds $5,000. Premium is the entry-level model, Premium Plus takes the mid-range slot, and Prestige is a high-end option. The SQ8 and RS Q8 are sometimes taken as models for themselves. The first one costs $95,000, while the RS badge comes with impressive performance and a $120,000 price tag.
Specs
Under the bonnet of the 2023 Audi Q8 stays a V6 engine as the base option. The SUV belongs to the mid-size class with two rows of seats, so six cylinders should provide enough power. However, fans of the premium class always expect more. There are some much cheaper SUVs with 335 hp. Also, the gas mileage is not impressive at 20 mpg combined. Audi makes its Quattro system available on all models. An eight-speed automatic transmission is also standard.
RS Q8 and SQ8
If 335 horsepower is not enough, you will have to invest about $25,000 to upgrade the base configuration to the 2023 Audi SQ8. In this case, a V8 replaces V6 and adds extra power. Total outputs are 500 hp and 568 lb-ft of torque. This SUV needs 4.2 seconds to sprint 0-60 mph. On the other hand, it also wastes gas faster, returning 20 on the open road, and just 15 mpg in the city.
The 2023 Audi RS Q8 is the top of the range version. A 4.0-liter V8 engine and twin-turbo system burst 591 horsepower. It needs 0.5 seconds less to hit 60 mph from a stop. Well, the price is also adjusted and the RS Q8 is a legit rival to the BMW X6 M and Mercedes AMG GLE. Of course, the RS model is not all about these numbers. Special features need to support a mighty system. Plus, the styling upgrades are making everything look more aggressive.
2023 Audi Q8 E-Tron
The next stage of upgrading the 2023 Audi Q8 will be electrification. Well, outside the US, the German carmaker is already producing a plug-in hybrid version of the big SUV. There are two configurations, both based on a 3.0-liter V6 petrol engine. The lighter one delivers 380 hp and 475 lb-ft, while the 2023 Audi Q8 E-Tron 60 should be out with 455 hp and 515 lb-ft of twisting power. If you drive the SUV by using electric power only, you can cover 30-35 miles.
This is a priority for Audi and its US marketing. The E-Tron technology drew a lot of attention and fans are eager to see the biggest vehicles offering hybrid and plug-in systems. The 2023 Audi Q8 E-Tron is the best way to deliver a punch to the competition, especially archrivals from Germany. Of course, BMW and Mercedes are doing the same thing with their mid-size luxury SUVs, so the battle might get to a whole new level.
Notable Features
The SUV costs more, but it comes with some advanced technology and exclusive stuff. If we must take one feature as the highlight, that would be an infotainment system with a few displays. Fans expected an update, but the new MMI is more than competitive. Virtual Cockpit is another advanced system that comes standard with the 2023 Audi Q8, in all its versions. Check everything you want/don’t want to see on the screen to make the ride more convenient and safer. The RS version upgrades this feature with the Virtual Cockpit Plus, B&O sound, and wireless Apple CarPlay.