Audi’s Electrified Beast: Introducing the 2024 SQ8 E-Tron with Tri-Motor Power!
When Audi revealed its plans for the 2024 lineup, the 2024 Audi SQ8 e-tron was initially kept under wraps with a "Stay tuned" teaser, rather than detailed bullet points. However, the latest update brings exciting news – the SQ8 e-tron will feature an extra motor on its rear axle, supplementing the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron's existing dual-motor setup. This addition translates to increased power, faster acceleration, and enhanced torque distribution.
The high-performance mode now reaches a peak of 496 horsepower and 718 pound-feet of torque, marking a notable gain of 94 horsepower and 228 pound-feet compared to the updated specifications of the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron. Accelerating to 60 miles per hour now takes just 4.2 seconds, a significant improvement of 1.2 seconds compared to the Q8 e-tron's acceleration time for the same speed.
With the new larger battery pack in the 2024 Audi Q8 e-tron, having 106 usable kilowatt-hours, the estimated EPA range for the SQ8 in both traditional and Sportback styles is 253 miles on 20-inch wheels or 218 miles with the optional 22-inch wheels. The longer range is 32 miles less than the Q8 e-tron. The Q8 e-tron Sportback offers an Ultra Package for those interested in the longest range. This package includes 19-inch wheels with low-rolling resistance summer tires, aiming for an estimated 300-mile range. Only this specific trim and package offer the Ultra option.
The 2024 Audi SQ8 e-tron begins at $90,895 plus a $1,095 destination charge. The Q8 e-tron's destination charge has increased to $1,195. As the SQ8 e-tron shares shipping characteristics with the regular SQ8, supplementing the features of a new Audi Q8 e-tron, a slight $100 price increase could happen. The SQ8 e-tron excludes the base Premium trim, so a direct comparison indicates the SQ8 e-tron Premium Plus costs roughly $11,000 more than the electric Q8 e-tron Premium Plus. The SQ8 Sportback e-tron's starting price is $93,695, almost $10,000 higher than the Q8 Sportback e-tron Premium Plus.
The 2024 SQ8 e-tron is expected at U.S. dealerships in Q4 this year and comes with two years of complimentary DC fast charging at Electrify America for buyers.
Incidentally, considering all its features, this car is likely to secure a spot among the Top Premium Electric SUVs.
