The performance variant of the Audi Q8 E-Tron is now on sale, promising high trim levels, high power and a 273 mile range.
The fast version of the newly released electric Audi SUV is here, called the SQ8 E-Tron, in a name that is familiar to Audi’s highest trim levels without being the full fat RS versions.
So, the Audi SQ8 E-Tron offers a triple motor setup with 500bhp and 973Nm of torque, which should deliver a silent 0-60 of 4.5 seconds – that isn’t too bad for something that weighs 2,650kg, which is also the same as a small moon. It will be available in both SUV and Sportback variants, with the latter offering a slightly better range (276 miles vs the SUV’s 269 miles). Both cars will top out at 130mph and feature a 106kWh battery pack.
“We’ve already seen huge interest and demand for our new Q8 e-tron model lineup with its introduction to the UK market back in March,” commented Andrew Doyle, Director Audi UK. “The arrival of the SQ8 e-tron completes our new-look electric flagship model range and sets a new benchmark for performance and driving dynamics in the segment.”
There are two trim levels available for both the Sportback and SUV, those being Black Edition and Vorsprung. The cheapest option is the SQ8 E-Tron (SUV) Black Edition which is priced from £97,500. The Vorsprung then bumps that price up to £114,500 whilst the SQ8 Sportback E-Tron Black Edition starts from £100,000 and the Vorsprung Sportback is £117,000.
The press release states “Equipment highlights across the lineup include adaptive air suspension, quattro all-wheel drive, progressive steering, S-specific exterior styling and a Park Assist Pack that includes a 360-degree camera.
Inside, electrically adjustable front super sport seats with S embossed logo in Valcona leather are standard, along with comfort and safety features such as Audi Virtual cockpit plus, keyless-go, head-up display, Bang & Olufsen sound system, four-zone automatic climate control, extended LED interior lighting pack and three-spoke flat bottomed steering wheel in perforated leather.”
Being an Audi, though, there are of course optional equipment that you can specify which includes the S Technology Pack Pro (£2,595). That adds exterior grille illumination, a panoramic sunroof, USB-C in the rear, heated rear seats and advanced key.
The Tour Pack (£1,995) includes adaptive cruise with active lane assist, emergency assist, predictive efficiency assistant, turn assist and swerve assist. Finally, the City Assist Pack (£1,125) adds Audi pre-sense rear, exit warning, cross traffic assist front and rear, lane change assistant and park assist with parking aid. All packs are optional on Black Editions and standard on Vorsprung models.
