Audi South Africa's upcoming Q8 SUV will be unveiled at the Shanghai Auto Show in June.
The Audi Q8 takes over as the flagship of the Audi SUV-range from the Q7 and represents the new face of the Q family. It shares its platform with the Lamborghini Urus, and is expected to rival SUV's like the Porsche Panamera and the BMW X6 when it launches.
The Q8 continues the same sort of styling as the rest of the Audi range, so the SUV’s front is dominated by a large, hexagonal grill. The rear of the new SUV features wraparound lights, something we saw on the new A8. While little is available about the interior, expect it to replicate the innards of the Audi A8 luxury sedan.
The launch of the Q8 will be just a small part of Audi's very busy 2018. The company will launch a new vehicle roughly every three weeks for a total of over 20 models debuting over the course of the year. Some of these products will include the next-gen A6, E-Tron Quattro electric SUV, and performance-oriented SQ2.
Also worth a look: the Audi Rs3 and the Out with the Old, In with the New: Audi A5 Replaces A4 in So.
FAQ
Q: What does the Audi Q8 cost in South Africa?
The Audi Q8 launched in South Africa with a starting price of around R1,299,000 for the base 55 TFSI model, making it a proper premium SUV that sits comfortably in luxury territory.
Q: Is the Audi Q8 worth buying?
The Q8 is worth buying if you want Audi's flagship SUV experience with coupe styling, cutting-edge tech, and serious road presence, though you'll pay a premium over the more practical Q7.
Q: How does the Audi Q8 compare to the BMW X6?
The Q8 offers more interior space and a more refined ride than the X6, while the BMW delivers sportier handling and slightly better performance figures, making your choice depend on whether you prioritise comfort or driving dynamics.
Q: What engine options are available in the Audi Q8?
The Q8 range includes a 250kW 3.0-litre V6 petrol in the 55 TFSI and a thunderous 373kW 4.0-litre V8 in the SQ8, both featuring quattro all-wheel drive and mild-hybrid technology.
Should You Buy It?
The Audi Q8 is a solid buy if you've got over R1,300,000 to spend on a luxury SUV that makes a statement. It's the best flagship Audi SUV under R1,500,000 in South Africa, offering genuine premium appeal with its coupe-like styling and tech-packed interior. However, if you need maximum practicality for your money, the Q7 still makes more sense for families, while the BMW X6 edges ahead for pure driving thrills. The Q8 hits the sweet spot for buyers who want the most stylish premium SUV in Audi's range and don't mind paying extra for that privilege.
