Audi has recently launched the Q8 e-tron series in India, featuring a starting price of Rs 1.14 crore for the SUV variant and Rs 1.18 crore for the Sportback variant (ex-showroom, India). The Q8 e-tron represents a significant update from its predecessor, formerly known as the e-tron. Both the SUV and Sportback models are offered in two trims: 50 and 55. These models offer an impressive maximum range of up to 600km based on the WLTP cycle. Interested buyers can secure their Q8 e-tron bookings by paying a nominal amount of Rs 5 lakh.
Noteworthy Improvements in Audi Q8 e-tron Powertrain and Specifications
The most striking enhancements in the Q8 e-tron are seen in its battery technology. The 55 variants now boast a larger 114kWh battery, a significant increase from the previous version”s 95kWh battery. Additionally, the 50 variant, which used to be equipped with a 71kWh battery, now features the 95kWh battery pack. The battery system powers dual electric motors—one on each axle—resulting in a combined output of 340hp and 408hp for the 50 and 55 variants, respectively. Both variants share a torque of 664Nm.
The claimed driving range varies based on battery capacity and body style. For the SUV version, the 50 and 55 variants offer maximum ranges of 491km and 582km, respectively. Meanwhile, the Sportback version boasts maximum ranges of 505km and 600km for the 50 and 55 variants, respectively.
Audi is including a 22kW AC charger with the Q8 e-tron, capable of supporting up to 170kW DC fast charging. Audi states that the Q8 e-tron 50 can achieve a full charge from 0 to 100% in around 4.45 hours using the AC charger, while the 55 variant, featuring the larger battery pack, takes approximately six hours to complete a full charge.
Audi Q8 e-tron Exterior and Interior Enhancements
Despite modest cosmetic updates, Audi has refreshed the Q8 e-tron”s design considerably. The grille showcases a new mesh pattern with black surrounds and features a new light bar that visually connects the subtly modified headlamps. The vehicle is now adorned with Audi”s new 2D logo in solid white. Furthermore, the front and rear bumpers boast sharper styling, and the front chin is finished in glossy black. The Q8 e-tron”s 20-inch alloy wheels also exhibit a new design, while maintaining their original size.
Within the cabin, the interior remains largely unchanged, retaining the dual-touchscreen setup on the centre console—a 10.1-inch display for infotainment and an 8.6-inch display for HVAC controls. The car also comes equipped with an all-digital instrument cluster featuring Audi”s Virtual Cockpit Plus, a premium 16-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, a panoramic sunroof, four-zone climate control, and a newly added 360-degree camera. However, it”s worth noting that wireless Apple CarPlay functionality is still absent from the equipment list.
The Q8 e-tron”s Competition and Pricing
In the Indian market, the Q8 e-tron competes with the BMW iX and the Jaguar I-Pace. For reference, the BMW iX is priced at Rs 1.21 crore, while the Jaguar I-Pace falls within the price range of Rs 1.20 crore to Rs 1.24 crore (ex-showroom).