Entering adulthood brings a multitude of challenging choices. Where should you reside? With whom should you share your space? Which large Audi crossover should you select—the SQ8 or the refreshed Q7?
This dilemma arose in the picturesque Wasatch Mountain range, located just outside Salt Lake City. The updates made to the new models are subtle, featuring a redesigned front end, customizable light signatures, new digital cockpit themes, and the return of exposed tailpipes on the more family-oriented Q7 three-row crossover SUV.
These updates come in phases. While the enhancements are part of the 2025 model year for the Audi Q7 and SQ7, they were technically applied to the 2024 Q8 and SQ8. With more than half of 2024 behind us and the new 2025 models set to arrive imminently, Audi has advised us to consider both as 2025 vehicles with only minor price adjustments.
When Audi last introduced its largest crossovers, it was during the height of the pandemic, with a virtual experience. Now, however, the experience is palpable.
Audi SQ8 exhibits impressive agility
Experiencing the 500-hp twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 SQ8 can transform all those challenging adult choices into mere trifles. Behind the wheel, this top-tier performer in Audi’s crossover lineup remains exceptional, even with the RS Q8 debuting early next year. Expected to produce 631 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, this relation to the Lamborghini Urus will feature Audi’s most powerful production engine, aiming for an impressive 0-60 mph time of just 3.4 seconds.
Imagining how much more effortlessly that RS Q8 will perform compared to the SQ8’s V-8, which already delivers 568 lb-ft of torque, is quite a challenge. Launching from a complete stop takes a moment to harness the power, but reaching high speeds on an extended on-ramp outside Park City occurs almost too seamlessly. For a quicker activation, one can deactivate the stability control, hold the brake for a moment, press the gas, release the brake, and accelerate. It feels quicker than the stated 0-60 mph in just 4.0 seconds, a sentiment backed by many independent assessments.
The 8-speed automatic transmission executes shifts with the grace of an elite athlete. While the paddle shifters add an element of fun, their use feels unnecessary, as the transmission in Dynamic mode allows engagement up to the 6,800-rpm redline before shifting. The turbo’s whir complements the husky V-8 growl, and while some electric vehicles may launch with greater force, the V-8 still engages the senses.
The SQ8 and SQ7 shine not only at a standstill but also while navigating rugged terrain. The surge around the 2,500-rpm threshold elicits smiles, if not chuckles, and a downshift using the well-placed paddle shifters makes overtaking on single-lane highways feel as effortless as a sports car. Equally impressive is the transition into a tranquil cruise, providing a quiet highway experience. The vehicle’s dual character is truly delightful.
This tranquility can partly be attributed to the acoustic glass utilized in the side windows, which is bundled in the Prestige trim for an additional $7,000 (the base SQ8 starts at $97,795, including destination fees). It’s important to note that all Q7s and Q8s come standard with all-wheel drive; rear-wheel steering is an option for Q7/Q8 but comes standard in the SQ models.
Each of the four models I drove featured advanced technology. The rear wheels pivot in the opposite direction from the front wheels below 37 mph, effectively shortening the wheelbase and reducing the turning radius by 3.3 feet. I seamlessly executed a U-turn on a narrow access road, managing without needing to reverse, significantly simplifying parking maneuvers.
Turning in sync with the front wheels at higher speeds offers a visibly enhanced performance, allowing for sharper, more agile turns on the stunning valley roads weaving through the Wasatch range.
The SQ test vehicles were equipped with Continental SportContact 285/35R23 summer tires, enhancing traction. Additionally, other innovative technologies provided confidence on blind corners and steep gradients. Both the SQ8 and SQ7 test models included the optional $6,000 S Sport Package featuring an electromechanical limited-slip rear differential, which directs more torque to the outside rear wheel for improved grip, facilitating smooth rotations when maneuvering through twisting roads.
2025 Audi SQ8
The S Sport Package also comprises two anti-roll bars at the front and rear, each equipped with a center motor, effectively splitting the stabilizer bar into two parts. On sections where the roadway crumbled into gravel, the passenger side would flex as needed while the driver’s side stayed steadied on solid ground. On uniform surfaces and during more spirited driving, the two sections of each roll bar would rotate in opposite directions, effectively counteracting pitch and roll at each wheel.
The outcome is remarkable grip,at speeds that challenge the SQ8’s hefty 5,214-pound curb weight, it felt more akin to an Avant wagon. The SQ8 obliterated all destination time estimates, allowing the breathtaking mountain views to pass by in a blur. If I had been in a lesser vehicle, I might have stopped to appreciate the scenery; instead, the SQ8’s performance made me long for more canyons to explore.
The test vehicles featured an air suspension system and adaptive dampers, which are standard on the Q7/Q8 Prestige and the SQ8/SQ7. The air suspension can adjust a mere 30 mm or 1.2 inches, reaching nearly 10 inches of ground clearance when in off-road mode, yet navigating a gravel access road should likely conclude your off-road aspirations.
Within the SQ models, everything felt tightly tuned, with sport-tuned suspension, supportive bucket seats, and responsive steering. While I appreciated the robust steering wheel, the steering tended to veer from center more than in the Q7/Q8, yet the sensitive responses aligned well with the SQ’s sporty demeanor.
Since the four models tested were outfitted similarly—with the exception of the exclusive $6,000 S Sport Package available only for the SQ variants—the choice of the twin-turbo V-8 raises a $24,000 question compared to the Q7/Q8 TFSI 55. The V-6 engine impressed in its own right, but if you’re keen to upgrade to rear-axle steering and air suspension, opting for the V-8 is advisable.
Audi Q7 and SQ7 three-row seating proposition
The SQ7 matches the 0-60 mph acceleration of the Rivian R1S, Tesla Model X, and even the Dodge Durango SRT; I have yet to experience a three-row SUV that handles better than this one, particularly in the $116,540 configuration I test drove. If you seek performance and necessitate the occasional use of a third row, it’s a challenging decision. The Q8 offers more legroom in the rear, while the Q7 provides superior headroom.
The Q7’s third row adds only 77 pounds, yet the more stylish roofline of the Q8 increases the TFSI 55’s price by $9,000 and adds about $7,000 to the SQ8. This disparity may lead some buyers to favor the Q7, even though the third row serves more as an occasional option than a practical solution.
The Q7’s second-row configuration splits 35:30:35; however, the middle section does not slide forward but simply folds down flat. You could place an uncooperative teen in the third row to act as a leg rest, although passengers in the outer seats may not appreciate it. The third row can be power-folded from either the door or the cargo area, while the second row requires a manual fold and flip. If heads fit comfortably in the third row, toes may not, particularly without some negotiation with the second row. It’s more cluttered and confining than many other luxury three-row SUVs, such as the BMW X7, Mercedes-Benz GLE, and Rivian R1S.
One note for front passengers enjoying the massaging seat option: activation doesn’t require the touchscreen. Just press and hold the center button on the seat-side control panel. This feature adds a nice touch of convenience.
Audi Q7/Q8 technology and 2025 updates
Reevaluating these significant models within the U.S. market reminded me of the impressive in-car technology, despite the occasional hiccup with the Apple CarPlay connection that can lead to tech glitches. On several occasions, along with other journalists, connecting via cable to Apple CarPlay caused my home screen on the 10.1-inch upper touchscreen to go dark, leaving only the side menu accessible for media and navigation. Resolving this required a hard reset. Audi acknowledges the issue and is currently working on a solution.
Audi’s technology and vivid HD screens make smartphone connectivity feel outdated, apart from text messaging. The 3D color mapping displayed on both the touchscreen and the exceptional 12.3-inch instrument cluster is notably more vibrant and user-friendly compared to competitors.
The streamlined steering wheel design avoids unusual sliders or haptic buttons, which facilitates effortless navigation through the cluster views or accessing pertinent information. In an era dominated by large screens, the Q7 and Q8 maintain a modern and appealing look without overwhelming visual distractions. This sense of simplicity is aided by the adaptive cruise control stalk located beneath the steering column. The wireless smartphone charger placed under the center armrest helps reduce visual clutter; however, it also necessitates remembering the no-phones-left-behind alert when turning off the vehicle.
The dual touchscreen setup in the center stack, featuring an 8.6-inch screen for climate control situated below the main touchscreen, was also unobtrusive. The haptic feedback and button-like interactions provided ease of use, although I still favor traditional dials and toggles. Nevertheless, Audi’s cockpit experience is notably cleaner and more intuitive than that of its rivals, especially other German brands, even if the touch-sensitive and glossy surfaces tend to attract fingerprints. Keeping a glass cleaner nearby is advisable.
For 2025, customizable interior themes have been introduced, allowing the touchscreen to display natural scenery akin to smartphone wallpaper, with the car’s ambient lighting adjusting to match each theme. For example, the Northern Lights theme emits a purplish hue across the dashboard, doors, and footwells. There are also MLS soccer-themed options available for $17.99, while the landscape themes start at $12.99 as a one-time fee.
Although the Q7 hasn’t undergone significant changes, its confined third row makes it challenging to recommend against the recent influx of three-row crossovers and SUVs in the luxury market. However, the SQ7 and especially the stunning SQ8 stand out with their effortless performance, albeit at a premium price.
Image Source: Traveller70 / Shutterstock
