2025 Audi SQ8

MSRP: $97,600

Use the table of contents to jump to a section

Overview

The 2025 Audi SQ8 is a high-performance, two-row luxury SUV designed for drivers who prioritize style and agility. It utilizes a 4.0-liters twin-turbocharged V8 engine that produces 500 hp and 568 lb-ft of torque. As the coupe-styled sibling to the three-row SQ7, the vehicle prioritizes a rakish roofline and aggressive stance over maximum passenger capacity. 

Standard Quattro all-wheel drive, sport adaptive air suspension, and all-wheel steering work in concert to provide a balance of comfort and mechanical capability. The Audi SQ8 competes directly against established rivals like the BMW X6 M60i, the Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe, and the Porsche Cayenne S Coupe.

What’s New for 2025

Updates for the 2025 SQ8 remain modest, focusing on technology and comfort. Traffic-sign recognition and the LED Interior Lighting Package Plus now come standard across the lineup. The top-tier Prestige trim includes front-seat massage and memory functions as standard equipment to enhance long-distance driving comfort. 

Audi introduces two new option packages: the $2,000 Carbon package, which provides carbon-fiber mirror housings and side-sill inlays for a race-inspired look, and the $500 Audi Sport Crimson Red Stitch package, which includes red seatbelts and contrasting interior stitching. Furthermore, the updated infotainment system now supports third-party applications, including Spotify and Amazon Alexa.

Exterior

The SQ8 features a sloping, coupe-inspired roofline that creates a sleek silhouette and distinguishes the model from the more traditional, boxy SQ7. S-specific design elements include a bold Singleframe grille with a satin metallic finish, aluminum-optic mirror housings, and quad exhaust tips that signify its performance roots. Standard 22-inch alloy wheels in graphite gray fill the wheel arches, providing an aggressive foundation. 

The Black Optic package provides blacked-out exterior trim, mirrors, and badging combined with dark 22-inch wheels for a stealthier appearance. Owners may also choose optional 23-inch wheels for a more prominent profile. The Prestige trim incorporates sophisticated HD Matrix-design LED headlights with integrated laser lights.

Interior

The cabin houses a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An 8.6-inch climate control panel sits below the main screen. The 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus instrument cluster offers three display modes, including an S Performance view. Valcona leather, heated power front seats, a heated steering wheel, and quad-zone climate control come as standard equipment. 

The Prestige trim adds ventilated and massaging front seats, heated rear seats, a Bang and Olufsen 23-speaker audio system, night vision, and remote parking assist. The optional $3,700 Luxury package covers the dashboard and upper door panels in leather.

Price Range and Best Value

The Prestige trim at $104,900 represents the best value, as it adds massaging and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, Bang and Olufsen audio, night vision, and remote parking assist for a $7,300 increase over the Premium Plus. Regarding the 2025 Audi SQ8’s price, buyers should note that additional options quickly increase the final cost past $125,000.

Powertrain Specifications

The optional S sport package adds active roll stabilization, a sport rear differential, and red brake calipers.

Fuel Economy

Fuel type: Premium Gasoline (required) / Fuel tank: 22.5 gallons

Dimensions and Capacities

Warranty

Pros and Cons

Pros: 

• The twin-turbo V8 delivers sports-car acceleration from a five-seat luxury SUV
• Coupe styling stands apart from boxy competitors without sacrificing rear headroom
• All-wheel steering makes a 5,269 lbs SUV feel agile
• A towing capacity of 7,700 lbs adds genuine utility

Cons: 

• Fuel economy of 17 MPG combined remains among the thirstiest in the segment
• Dual-touchscreen infotainment hardware ages and shows bugs with Apple CarPlay
• No third-row seating exists despite the shared platform with the seven-seat SQ7
• Options push the price past $125,000 quickly

Verdict

The Audi SQ8 mid-size luxury SUV occupies a position between the three-row SQ7 and the high-performance RS Q8. Its 500 hp V8 provides thrilling acceleration, while the adaptive air suspension maintains a composed ride. The coupe roofline creates an athletic presence without compromising interior space. Although the infotainment system requires a generational update, the vehicle remains one of the most well-rounded performance SUVs on the market.

Audi

Competitors

• BMW X6 M60i
• Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe
• Porsche Cayenne S Coupe

About the author

Cobus F. Potgieter

Reviews and Features Editor

Cobus F. Potgieter is a Reviews and Features Editor at Autoblog covering new car reviews, and technology and historical features. He moved to motoring media full time in 2021 after a career as a public relations practitioner and joined The Arena Group in June 2025.