One SUV that truly understands how to make an impression is the 2023 Audi Q8. Its aggressive, coupe-like design instantly distinguishes it from the more conventional, boxy SUVs on the market. Its powerful turbocharged V6 engine and mild hybrid technology provide smooth, reliable power whether you’re driving on the highway or just around town. The handling is surprisingly quick for a vehicle of this size, and the ride is quiet and elegant. It’s more athletic than you’d expect from a premium SUV.
It is the epitome of Audi grandeur once you step inside. A luxurious, innovative interior with soft-touch materials, slick digital screens, and just the perfect amount of luxury greets you. Although, the dual-touchscreen arrangement may need some getting accustomed to, it looks futuristic. While the sloping roofline somewhat reduces baggage capacity, the seating is incredibly comfortable for five people, and is still useful for daily use or weekend trips. All things considered, the Q8 is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a high-end product that blends comfort, elegance, and performance.
What’s tweaked for 2023:
- It has the new HD Matrix-Design LED lights with optional laser light for better visibility.
- Remote Park Assist Plus is now available by allowing automated parking in tight spaces.
- It includes new exterior color options, including Waitomo Blue and Ascari Blue.
- All trim levels now come with updated standard features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance.
- It features an updated Audi Virtual Cockpit with better execution and graphics.
- Ios CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard on the Q8, allowing for smooth smartphone communication.
- The new alloy designs come with additional wheel options in 21 and 22 inches.
- It has updated interior materials with the new leather upholstery and trim options.
2023 Audi Q8 Specs:
| Engine | 3.0L V6 Turbocharged 48V Mild Hybrid system |
| Horsepower | 335 hp@ 5,000-6,400 rpm |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft@ 1,370-4,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Quattro AWD |
| 0-60 mph | 5.6 seconds |
| Top-speed | 130 mph |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22.5 gallons |
| Towing Capacity | 7700 lbs |
| Cargo capacity | 30.5 cu.ft(rear seats), 60.7 cu.ft (folded) |
| Fuel Economy | MMI dual screens (10.1 and 8.6) |
| Suspension | Adaptive Air Suspension |
| Wheels | Standard 20-inch (22 optional) |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
2023 Audi Q8 Pricing and Trims:
The price of the 2023 Audi Q8 starts at $71,995 and goes up to $82,295 depending on the trim and options.
| TRIMS | PRICES |
| PREMIUM | $71,995 MSRP |
| PREMIUM PLUS | $76,495 MSRP |
| PRESTIGE | $82,295 MSRP |
2023 Audi Q8 VS Competitors:
| Feature | 2023 Audi Q8 | 2023 BMW X6 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe |
| Starting Price | $71,995 | $73,900 | $81,200 |
| Powertrain | 3.0L Turbo V6+ Mild hybrid | 3.0L I6 Turbo +Mild hybrid | 3.0L I6 Turbo +Mild hybrid |
| Horsepower | 335 hp | 375 hp | 375 hp |
| 0-60 mph | 5.6 seconds | 5.2 seconds | 5.3 seconds |
| Drivetrain | AWD (Quattro) | XDrive AWD | AWD (4MATIC) |
| Cargo Capacity( behind 2nd row) | 30.5 cu.ft | 27.4 cu.ft | 27.5 cu.ft |
| MAX Cargo Capacity | 60.7 cu.ft | 59.6 cu.tf | 63.2 cu.ft |
| Seating | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Infotainment | Dual touchscreens (10.1″ + 8.6″) | 12.3″ iDrive 8 | 12.3 MBUX dual screen |
YouTube Video:
Exterior:
The 2023 Audi Q8 exterior blend efficiency with coupe-like sportiness to give a strong and elegant look. It has an HD-matrix design with LED and laser light technology for better visibility. It is present on both sides of the iconic Single-frame octagonal grille. Its strong wheel arches, sculpted body lines and slightly sloping roofline create a bold and athletic design. Its standard 20-inch alloy wheels are updated to 22-inch models for a more impressive appearance. Dynamic turn signals and a full-width LED light bar at the back give it a modern appeal. Sportier style features are included in the available S-line and Black Optic packages, which make the Q8 stand out on the road.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo:
The 2023 Audi Q8 interior is luxurious and innovative. The cabin has a refined ambiance due to its leather upholstery, wood or brushed aluminum trim, and ambient LED lighting. A panoramic sunroof, tri-zone climate control, and heated front seats are standard features. Optional extras include an elite Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system, four-zone climate control, and seats with massage and ventilation.
Two people may stretch out in the back, and the driving position is still sporty despite its higher altitude. The 2023 Audi Q8 has 30.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seats. The cargo area increases to 60.7 cubic feet when the back seats are folded down. There isn’t much cubby storage within the Q8. We had limited space to put little goods due to its short door pockets and shallow center console bin.
Infotainment And Connectivity:
The 2023 Audi Q8 has an advanced infotainment system with two vibrant touchscreens built into the center console and dashboard. The screens react to touch inputs with haptic feedback rather than the user-friendly rotary controller used on previous Audi models. It’s standard features are Android Auto, iOS CarPlay, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. There are two optional Bang & Olufsen audio systems and wireless charging. The conventional digital gauge cluster provides excellent navigation and adjustable settings.
Engine, Performance And Transmission:
The 2023 Audi Q8 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine with a mild hybrid system produces up to 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It gives an amazing combination of power, flexibility, and comfort. The Quattro all-wheel drive and 8-speed automatic transmission enable the Q8 to reach 60 mph in around 5.6 seconds, providing a sporty and smooth driving experience.
It is fast due to its adjustable air suspension and optional all-wheel steering which improve handling and ride comfort. The RS Q8 has a 591-hp twin-turbo V8 that delivers supercar-level speed, and the SQ8 has a 500-hp twin-turbo V8 for customers looking for more performance. The Q8 easily achieves a mix of power and refinement, whether navigating curves or speeding on highways.
Fuel Economy And Real-World Mpg:
The 2023 Audi Q8 EPA estimations are inadequate, but they are lower than those of comparable all-wheel-drive competitors. According to official estimations, the Q8 can get 18 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. According to Car and Driver, the Q8 we drove on our highway fuel efficiency route returned 28 mpg over 200 miles, much above its EPA highway rating.
Read More: 2025 AUDI RS3 Review
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features:
The 2023 Audi Q8 offers its latest driver assistance technology as standard. It is designed to make drivers comfortable and to protect the passengers.Higher trim levels are the only ones having adaptive cruise control, stop-and-go technology, and night vision with pedestrian detection. The optional 360-degree camera system on the Audi Q8 made navigating narrow drive-throughs easier. The Q8’s credibility is proven by its impressive performance in crash tests. Its key features are stated below:
- Automated emergency braking with forward-collision warning as standard.
- Lane departure warning with lane centering assist as standard.
- Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert as standard.
To learn more about 2023 Audi Q8 crash tests and safety features, visit the Insurance Institute for Highway Insurance (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA).
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage:
Audi provides the same powertrain and limited warranties as Bnez and Mercedes.
- Four years or 50,000 miles are covered by the limited warranty.
- The powertrain warranty is valid for 50,000 miles or four years.
- No Complementary scheduled maintenance.
Expert Reviews:
The 2023 Audi Q8 continues to earn high praise from automotive experts, maintaining its position as a top choice in the Luxury sports car segment.
Car and driver states “ It combines high-end comfort with satisfying driving dynamics, making it a solid choice for those who prioritize design and a premium feel over maximum utility. However, Car and Driver points out that for buyers who need more space or a third row, the Q7 may be the more practical pick.”
Edmunds praises the ”The 2023 Audi Q8 as a luxurious and stylish SUV that delivers an impressive blend of comfort, technology, and performance. It’s especially appealing to buyers who want the looks and feel of a coupe without sacrificing too much SUV practicality. However, the price and limited cargo capacity may be drawbacks for some.”
Auto Express states that ”A luxurious executive SUV with strong visual appeal, though practicality and fun-factor may lag behind competitors like the BMW X6.”
Consumer Reports states that “The Q8’s coupe-like styling compromises some functionality, such as access and visibility. The vehicle has a predicted reliability rating that is not available due to insufficient data, and it has been subject to one recall concerning the driver’s seat side airbag mounting.”
Owner’s Feedback:
According to the J.D. Power ranking, the 2023 Audi Q8 remains a great performer, rated at an overall score of 78/100. This includes a quality and reliability rating of 74/100, a driving experience of 74/100, and a resale value of 75/100.
However, several 2023 Audi Q8 owners have shared their insights on its price, trims and overall ranking over various platforms including Edmund!
“After months of research I purchased the Q8 with Premium Trim.
Jim Shield
The Q8 has exceeded my expectations as a sporty and luxurious SUV. As a tall man (6’6”), I feel right at home in the Q8, and driving it is a lot of fun! This SUV has all kinds of power and smoothness.
The Technology in the vehicle is a lot but it becomes fairly intuitive after a few days. Super quiet on the inside!
One note for better or worse, the Q8 is bigger than you think – closer to the Q7 than the Q5. If you want a true midsize SUV I’d look at the Q5 and if I still had kids going to soccer, lacrosse, etc… I would have bought the Q7.
The rear cargo area has enough room for my golf clubs and work materials. The back seat has more room than any other vehicle I considered.”
“As a prior owner of a 2018 Q5, happy with that SUV model, the Q8 seemed a stylish upgrade with more space but I expected little else. The 2022 Q8 is in a different class. The comfort in the seats and the ride is world-class, the updated infotainment is huge (better resolution screens with touch), and the autonomous driving features are hugely improved (no more “wiggle to satisfy” nag, now you simply have to make contact with the wheel). Overall thrilled with the vehicle.”
Mass Audi Enthusiast
“Great sporty car. have it for 3 days now. Definitely a head-turner. I bought a silver color line package. With its 22-inch sporty wheels and chrome-based outer lining, it looks exceptional. Interior is super sleek with 3 screens and it just looks exceptional. Very roomy and luxurious interior. The seats are comfortable. Back seats are very comfortable and roomy.”
Rupinder Thind
Final Verdict:
If you are looking for a luxury midsize SUV that blends elegant styling, modern technology, and strong performance, the 2023 Audi Q8 is definitely one to take into consideration. It achieves an amazing balance between sportiness and luxury even though it is not as optimized as the Porsche Cayenne Coupe or as luxurious as the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe is. Its back baggage room is slightly reduced by its sloping roofline and its fuel efficiency is not the best in the class.
