As electric cars continue to innovate and impress, a new standout that’s revving up for the spotlight is the 2024 Audi SQ8 e-tron. Audi’s latest flagship performance luxury electric SUV comes loaded with a three-motor electric drivetrain, setting new benchmarks for performance, luxury, and everyday usability. The SQ8 e-tron sets itself apart with its accelerated pace, increased handling dynamics, and elevated traction capabilities, making it a magnet for enthusiasts who enjoy the thrill of speed and the futuristic character of electric vehicles.
The SQ8 e-tron is powered by three electric motors – one at the front axle and two in the rear. This trio pumps out an impressive 496 horsepower and a staggering 718 lb/ft of torque in boost mode. This setup catapults the SUV from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 4.2 seconds, a testament to its superior straight-line performance. But the fun doesn’t stop there; the SQ8 e-tron’s intelligent torque vectoring optimizes power distribution, adding zest to the SUV’s turn-in and cornering abilities.
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Audi takes “form follows function” to heart with the SQ8 e-tron. It sports a widened body, complemented by standard quattro® all-wheel drive, offering a perfect blend of beauty and surefooted agility. This electric SUV proudly wears distinctive silver rocker-panel accents and aluminum-look exterior mirror housings, enhancing its unmistakable presence.
The SQ8 e-tron is not just a powerhouse on the outside. Inside, Audi takes luxury to the next level. A performance-themed carbon square structure interior trim is standard, replacing the open-pore wood offerings of the Q8 e-tron. Seats wrapped in Valcona leather with contrast diamond stitching add a luxurious touch, while the high-resolution displays and standard Audi virtual cockpit create an immersive and advanced digital user experience.
This luxury SUV is more than just a pleasure to drive; it also offers practical advantages. Thanks to its three-motor drivetrain, the SQ8 e-tron significantly improves traction on acceleration. This is particularly beneficial when one rear wheel encounters a low friction surface, such as ice or wet grass, as torque can be swiftly and precisely distributed between the other two motors.
Audi’s commitment to electrification is clear with the SQ8 e-tron. The brand plans to launch fully electric models for the global market from 2026. This move is part of Audi’s efforts to align with the Paris Climate Agreement’s goal of achieving full net carbon neutrality across the lifecycle of its vehicles by 2050.
The 2024 Audi SQ8 e-tron pushes the boundaries of what an electric SUV can be. It’s powerful, luxurious, and futuristic to boot. It will be a hot contender in the electric performance luxury SUV market when it arrives in U.S. showrooms in the fourth quarter of 2023, starting at $89,800 for the SUV body style, and $92,600 for the Sportback body style.
Sources: Audi
