Audi Q8 launched as new electric flagship

Audi has revealed the Q8 e-tron, a heavily revised version of the e-tron SUV and e-tron Sportback coupe-SUV.

The new name is intended to clarify where it sits in a range that will increasingly be populated by electric models, such as the Q4 e-tron, which is already available.

Driving range for the line up is as good as up to 343 miles on a charge, and six versions will be offered in total:

• Q8 50 e-tron,
• Q8 Sportback 50 e-tron,
• Q8 55 e-tron,
• Q8 Sportback 55 e-tron,
• SQ8 e-tron,
• and SQ8 Sportback e-tron.

Maximum power comes from the SQ8 e-tron models, with more than 500hp available from three electric motors - one on the front axle and two on the rear.

This allows headline performance figures of a 4.5 seconds 0-62mph time, and a top speed of 130mph.

Both 50 and 55 Q8 e-tron models get twin electric motors, one on each axle, providing 340hp and 408hp respectively. It is the Q8 Sportback 55 e-tron that offers the greatest driving range, with the coupe-shape allowing an additional 13 miles of range over the equivalent SUV version.

Standard equipment includes 20-inch alloys, adaptive air suspension, Audi Drive Select, keyless start, Matrix LED headlights, electric front seats, twin touchscreen infotainment system, digital driver's display, rear view camera, and 360-degree parking sensors.

Styling has been tweaked rather than given a complete overhaul, but sharper front and rear bumpers, plus a new front grille differentiate the Q8 e-tron from the outgoing e-tron.

Available to order on a lease now, the Q8 e-tron range is expected to start reaching customers from April 2023. Benefit in kind taxation on all models is 2%, making them ideal for company CEOs and senior directors of SME firms.

Alternatively, if you're interested in another model, head over to our main Audi page for more lease offers.