Audi: Generation two with a new name 🎥
RUNNERNEW As the successor to Audi's electric pioneer e-tron launched in 2018, the second generation now comes with enhanced technology and a new name. It is now called Q8 e-tron, as an SUV and as a Sportback.
Four years ago, the Audi e-tron ushered in the electric age at the Ingolstadt-based company. To make itself more recognizable among the now numerous e-tron models, the second generation now bears the name Q8 e-tron - to match the length of 4.92 meters and the three power variants 50, 55 and S with 250 kW, 300 kW and 370 kW.
In addition to the powertrains, however, Audi has also equipped the two body versions SUV and Sportback with larger battery capacity and optimized aerodynamics, enabling ranges of up to 600 kilometers depending on the model.
Stately dimensions and plenty of space
Thanks to lower drag coefficients, the large frontal area of the two Q8 models is less of an issue in terms of aerodynamic drag. The interior then benefits from the dimensions. With a length of 4.92 meters, a height of 1.62 meters and a wheelbase of 2.93 meters, there is plenty of space for people and luggage. The trunk volume is 569 liters (Sportback 528 liters), and another 62 liters are available at the front in the frunk.
Wood veneers, aluminum and carbon structure
The panoramic glass roof makes the interior appear bright. A wind deflector reduces noise when the roof is open. A 2-zone automatic climate control system is fitted as standard, while a 4-zone system can be selected. In terms of materials, wood veneers, aluminum and trim panels with a carbon structure as well as a technical fabric made from recycled PET bottles stand out. In the operating system, the two large displays - with diagonals of 10.1 and 8.6 inches - replace almost all conventional switches and controls. Many functions can also be activated by voice control. A head-up display complements the displays on request.
Ranges of up to 600 kilometers
In normal traffic, all motorizations prove to be a good fit. In the Q8 e-tron 50 and 55 models, revised, now even more efficient asynchronous motors in the system deliver 250 and 300 kW of maximum power and torques of 664 Nm. With the 89 kWh battery, the 50 e-tron can cover around 500 kilometers, while the 55 e-tron covers 580 kilometers as an SUV and up to 600 kilometers as a Sportback on one charge of the 106 kW battery.
The SQ8 e-tron is particularly dynamic and much more agile than its predecessor. Thanks to three electric motors, torque vector control on the rear axle, stiffer chassis mounts and more direct steering, surprisingly little of the heavy weight is felt in this car. The boost power of 370 kW and the total torque of 973 Nm provide plenty of thrust in every situation. And if you run out of juice after around 500 kilometers, you can recharge up to 80 percent in a good 30 minutes with up to 170 kW.
From spring at Swiss dealers
The new Q8 models are already available to order and should arrive at dealerships in the spring. Prices start at 84,900 Swiss francs (Q8 50 e-tron) and 87,100 Swiss francs (Sportback). The special Q8 e-tron S line Black Edition model costs 94,730 and 96,930 francs as the 50 e-tron and 107,330 and 109,530 francs as the 55 e-tron. The SQ8 e-tron can only be ordered from the second quarter, prices have not yet been set.
