First Drive: Is the Audi Q8 still the benchmark?
The South African market is ripe for Luxury SUVs to continue to outsell saloons. Almost one full year after its international launch the Audi Q8 is finally released in SA, but does it still leads the way in interior and exterior tech?
Some would say stereotypes exist for a reason. Vorsprunch dirch Technik, Audis multi decade old slogan means Audi HAS to push the envelope when it comes to technology in the automotive space. Coke guarantees smiles, KFC say’s we’ll lick our fingers and Audi says they lead the way. And they have. Infotainment systems, steering controls and electronic dashboards are of the best available. Audi has improved on that tech with the Q8 but has also added something brand new touches. The exterior lights now do even fancier light shows and interior features almost NO buttons.
engine
Taking a leap on from the Velars buttonless environment, Q8 employs the latest evolution of the tech. With haptic feedback that mimics the exact time it takes the average human to press a button. Don’t worry about the pressure either. The vibrational feedback lets your brain know that the button was properly depressed. Even the hazard button forms part of the touch screen. It’s something one would need to get used to, and I’m not sure if it will take off. But it certainly does feel like the best effort so far.
The luxury feel continues with the sumptuous seats and details such as brushed aluminium, alcantara and piano black. All tastefully executed. The standard audio system comes with 23 speakers, I do wonder how many speakers will ever be enough, but it does sound impressive doesn’t it? All adding to the wonderful air of luxury and style of Q8.
On the road
The self levelling air suspension coped well with the short gravel road we traversed. On tar the car has a disproportionate amount of grip in relation to its size. That can be explained by the suspension systems and computers. Another area where Audi have consistently led the way. The self levelling suspension and 22″ tyres grip well and the Q8 tracks comically true for such a big car. Having said that I’m still not a fan of fast driving in big SUV’s such as this one.
The Q8 is currently available with the 250kW 3.0 V6 engine. It’s a detuned version of the RS5 engine and is buttery smooth and effortlessly powerful. A diesel version can be expected later this year.
Exterior Styling
Throwing some homage to the Audi S1 Quattro, with its wide haunches and light bar at the rear, The Q8 is shorter than the Q7 but lower and wider. Our test car ran on the stunning 22 inch wheels but as usual, if total suppleness is what your after, the 20’s would be your best bet.
The Audi is still the leader in tech, just like Volvo is still the leader in safety. In this case its been a year and the competition still hasn’t brought this kind of innovation to the executive SUV class. BMW X7 launches soon and a battle is about to unfold before our eyes. Which side are you on?
The Audi Q8 pricing starts at R1 388 000
