LAOIS MOTORING: Audi’s revised and re badged Q8 e-tron is mighty impressive

This is not a completely new car but rather a refresh with some technical upgrades that make what was already an impressive car, now mighty impressive!

I can’t even start to explain Audi’s new badge strategy but all you need to know is the latest new e-tron is now called the Q8 e-tron. The Q8 badge was previously reserved for their largest SUV.

The model on test this week is the Q8 e-tron 50 Quattro in S-Line specification.

So has it got street cred?

One of the things I like about the revised e-tron is that it does not have any of the quirky style of some EV’s. Indeed it looks very normal and that’s a compliment. Its a striking looking car with lots of street cred particularly in the test car’s Daytona Grey Pearl effect paint and black alloy wheels.

The cosmetic upgrades include a new light bar effect to the rear and changes to the front  lights and grille as well as some very nice new design alloys. The whole effect is to create a fresh new look to what is really the original e-tron. 

What’s it like inside?

The cabin is typically Audi, beautifully executed and of the highest quality. I think this is quite simply the best cabin design available bar none! 

The main instruments are digitally generated but in an analogue style while two large perfectly integrated central screens with haptic feel control all other functions. Mood lighting, and high quality leather creates a truly luxurious environment.

The range of standard equipment is way to extensive to list here but highlights include adaptive air suspension, 21”  turbine design alloy wheels, Matrix LED headlamps, rear view camera system, Audi phone box with wireless charging, electric heated seats,  and a host of other high tech equipment. 

Accommodation is very good seating four adults very comfortably and five at a squeeze. The boot which is accessed by the electric rear tailgate has a decent capacity and extra storage under the boot floor. 

What’s under the bonnet?

The combination of the two electric motors giving all wheel drive delivers a power output of 340 bhp. 

Audi quote around 450km range but in reality I managed just over 360 km over a mixed bag of motorway and cross country driving. Using a fast charge point you will get to 80% in about 30 minutes.

The e-tron is impressive in its performance with real shove in the back acceleration while being almost completely silent.

What's it like to drive?

The latest Q8 e-tron is quite simply one of the most quiet and refined cars I have ever driven. It handles well, though if you go for a spirited drive on a twisty country road you soon notice the 2.5 tonne mass of this SUV. It grips very well and has superb brakes but that huge weight dulls its handling.

I particularly like how normal it is to drive. Press start, select D from the gorgeous design shift lever and off you go. The regenerative braking is excellent and unobtrusive unlike some EV’s and if you wish to increase the amount of regenerative braking a paddle shift selection increases retardation on lift off of the accelerator.

Hugh’s Verdict

I really enjoyed every km behind the wheel of the latest Q8 e-tron. The car oozes quality and class while the execution and design of the whole car should be the benchmark for others.

It is a beautifully built, practical, luxurious SUV with one of the best designed interiors on the market today. Priced from €95,895 before options this Q8 e-tron gets my highest recommendation.