MSRP: $99,700
Use the table of contents to jump to a section
Overview
The 2026 Audi SQ8 functions as a five-seat luxury performance SUV. It draws power from a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 that produces 500 hp and 568 lb-ft of torque. An 8-speed automatic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive come standard. The vehicle reaches 60 mph in 4.0 seconds and offers a towing capacity of 7,700 lbs.Â
Sport adaptive air suspension and rear-wheel steering are included in every model. Positioned below the 631-hp RS Q8 Performance, the SQ8 acts as the sportier, coupe-style sibling to the three-row SQ7. Audi offers two trim levels for this model. Key competitors include the BMW X6 M60i, Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe, and Porsche Cayenne S Coupe.
What’s New for 2026
The SQ8 remains unchanged from the previous update in 2025. However, Audi now includes its three-year/30,000-mile Signature Care complimentary maintenance program with all 2026 models. While the base Q8 receives additional standard equipment on Premium Plus and Prestige trims, the 2026 SQ8 and RS Q8 Performance retain the exact specifications and powertrain as the previous model year. Packages such as Carbon, Black Optic, S Sport, Luxury, and Crimson red stitching continue without modifications. The 2026 Audi SQ8’s price starts just below $100K this year.
Exterior
The Audi SQ8 measures 197 inches long with a 118-inch wheelbase. It stands 67 inches tall and 79 inches wide, extending to 86 inches when measured mirror to mirror. S-specific design cues include the signature Singleframe grille, quad exhaust outlets, alu-optic mirror housings, and sculpted bumpers. The vehicle features 22-inch wheels as standard, with 23-inch multispoke-S wheels in a bicolor finish offered as an extra.Â
The Black Optic package brings black 22-inch wheels, anthracite rings, and dark chrome exhaust tips to the design. The Carbon package provides carbon fiber mirror caps and side sill inlays. Carrera White is the standard exterior paint, while eight other shades, including Waitomo Blue, Chili Red, and Sakhir Gold, cost an additional $595.
Audi
Interior
The cabin features a dual-screen MMI system with a 10.1-inch upper display and an 8.6-inch lower touchscreen, both of which provide haptic feedback, and a 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit Plus digital gauge cluster with an S Performance mode. Both trims include Valcona leather sport seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. Standard interior amenities also include heated rear seats, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, adaptive cruise control, four-zone climate control, a panoramic moonroof, and a B&O premium audio system.Â
The Prestige trim adds a head-up display, intersection assist, remote park assist, and night vision. The Luxury package upholsters the dashboard and door sills in leather while adding a Dinamica headliner. The cargo area provides 33.68 cu-ft of space behind the rear seats, expanding to 60.82 cu-ft with the seats folded.
Kyle Edward
Price Range and Best Value Trim
| Trim | MSRP |
| Base / Best Value: Premium Plus | $99,700 |
| Top: Prestige | $107,200 |
The Premium Plus trim represents the best value at $99,700. It comes well-equipped with Valcona leather, massaging front seats, B&O audio, adaptive cruise control, and rear-wheel steering. The Prestige trim adds a head-up display, night vision, and remote parking for a $7,500 premium.
2026 Audi SQ8 Key Specs
Powertrain Options
| Specification | Detail |
| Engine | 4.0L Twin-Turbocharged V8 (48V mild hybrid) |
| Horsepower | 500 hp |
| Torque | 568 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed Tiptronic automatic |
| Drivetrain | Quattro AWD |
| 0-60 mph | 4.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph (limited) |
| Towing Capacity | 7,700 lbs |
Fuel Economy (MPG)
| Model | City | Hwy | Combined |
| SQ8 AWD | 14 | 20 | 16 |
Dimensions and Capacities
| Specification | Detail |
| Length | 197 in |
| Width (w/o mirrors) | 79 in |
| Height | 67 in |
| Wheelbase | 118 in |
| Cargo Volume | 33.68 / 60.82 cu-ft |
| Curb Weight | 5,269 lbs |
| Seating | 5 |
Warranty
| Coverage | Duration |
| Basic Vehicle | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| Powertrain | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
| Corrosion | 12 years / unlimited miles |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 years / unlimited miles |
| Complimentary Maintenance | 3 years / 30,000 miles |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- 500-hp twin-turbo V8 delivers 4.0-second 0-60 in a luxury SUV
- Standard sport air suspension and rear-wheel steering sharpen handling
- Massaging, ventilated Valcona leather seats and B&O audio standard
- 33.68 cu-ft of cargo without folding seats, 60.8 cu-ft max
- Coupe-like roofline sets it apart from the boxier SQ7
Cons:
- EPA-estimated 16 MPG combined with premium fuel required
- Carries over unchanged from 2025 with no new features
- Dual-screen MMI can be confusing and distracting to use
- Five seats only, no third-row option, unlike the SQ7
- Options push the Prestige well past $120,000
Verdict
The Audi SQ8 mid-size luxury SUV delivers impressive twin-turbo V8 performance within a sleek, coupe-inspired body. Its 500-hp engine, standard air suspension, and rear-wheel steering manage its 5,203-lbs mass to balance sportiness and comfort. The Premium Plus trim at $99,700 arrives fully loaded with Valcona leather, massage seats, B&O audio, and adaptive cruise control. While the vehicle remains unchanged for 2026, the formula works well for buyers seeking SQ7 power in a more athletic silhouette without needing a third row. The SQ8 remains a highly engaging choice in the segment.
Competitors
- BMW X6 M60i
- Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe
- Porsche Cayenne S Coupe
About the author
Cobus F. Potgieter
Reviews and Features Editor