The Audi Q8 e-tron is Audi Malaysia’s latest venture into the electric SUV market. Interestingly, the Q8 e-tron is closer in size to the Q5 and is designed to compete with the BMW iX3 and Mercedes-Benz EQC. However, as the internal combustion engine (ICE) version of the Q8 is a completely different vehicle, the naming structure for this electric SUV can be somewhat confusing. In Malaysia, the Q8 e-tron is available in three variants and two body styles. For this review, I’ll be focusing on the entry-level Q8 e-tron: the Audi Q8 e-tron 50 SUV. Join me as I explore whether the Q8 e-tron has what it takes to challenge the more established iX3 and EQC.
From the outside, the Q8 e-tron doesn’t look drastically different from a regular Audi SUV. This means it retains the sleek, handsome design Audi is known for. I particularly like the side profile, which looks elegant, even for an SUV. At the front, the Q8 features a conventional design dominated by a large grille. However, to distinguish it from ICE-powered Audis, the Q8 e-tron includes “e-tron” badging below the number plate. The SUV also comes with full LED headlights that lend it a menacing look. Although Audi has been a leader in headlight technology, the Q8 e-tron surprisingly lacks matrix headlights, likely reserved for higher-end models.
To give the Q8 e-tron a sportier appearance, Audi Malaysia has opted to remove all chrome elements as part of the standard high-gloss package. At the rear, the Q8 e-tron resembles the regular Q5 but adds a light bar connecting the taillights, giving it a futuristic vibe. The fully LED taillights ensure a consistent aesthetic. Completing the look are 20-inch rims paired with 255/50 R20 tires, enhancing the SUV’s overall presence and grip.
Inside, the Q8 e-tron features a typical Audi interior—clean and minimalist. While some may prefer larger screens, I appreciate this design for its simplicity, which avoids the cluttered appearance of overly complex setups. That said, the dashboard still includes three screens. The first is a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with Audi’s signature graphics. This display is intuitive and easy to read, becoming second nature after a brief adjustment period.
The central dashboard houses a 10.1-inch infotainment screen. While small by today’s standards, it includes essential features such as wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a 360-degree camera. The latter, while useful, could benefit from improved resolution for clearer visuals. Unfortunately, this variant does not include a premium sound system, though the base audio system delivers good sound quality.
Below the infotainment screen is a secondary display for climate control. This screen is sharp and responsive, with haptic feedback for a tactile experience when adjusting settings. Both screens are ergonomically positioned for easy access from the driver’s seat. Speaking of which, the driver’s seat is comfortable, though the cushion feels slightly firm. The side bolsters could also be tighter for better support during spirited driving.
Rear passengers will enjoy generous legroom and headroom, even with taller occupants seated up front. The seats recline comfortably, making long-distance travel enjoyable. Although shoulder room is adequate for three adults, the middle seat’s raised design may feel less comfortable. Rear amenities include four air vents, individual climate control, and sunshades on both rear doors to block sunlight.
The Q8 e-tron offers 569 liters of boot space, which can be expanded by folding down the rear seats. An additional 62 liters of storage is available under the hood for smaller items.
Powering the Q8 e-tron are two electric motors drawing energy from a 95 kWh battery. This setup delivers a combined output of 340 PS and 664 Nm of torque, enabling a 0-100 km/h sprint in just 6.0 seconds and a top speed of 200 km/h. While Audi claims a theoretical WLTP range of 491 km, my real-world tests showed a maximum range of 335 km per full charge. The Q8 e-tron consumed 25% of its battery for every 100 km, resulting in an average consumption of 21 kWh/100 km—higher than expected for a battery of this size.
The Q8 e-tron shines in ride and handling. Its air suspension ensures a smooth, comfortable ride, absorbing bumps effortlessly. In Comfort mode, there is noticeable body roll, but switching to Dynamic mode stiffens the suspension significantly, enhancing cornering stability. The steering is well-weighted and direct, providing excellent feedback and confidence when tackling curves. The regenerative braking system is strong enough to bring the vehicle to a complete stop, complemented by physical brakes for additional stopping power when needed.
Safety features are comprehensive, including eight airbags, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and cross-traffic assist, among others.
At RM 389,790, the Audi Q8 e-tron 50 is competitively priced within its segment. It’s a thoughtfully engineered EV that offers premium quality and a balanced driving experience. However, its range may be a concern for some buyers. While it stacks up well against competitors like the EQC and iX3, persuading Malaysians to invest in premium EVs over more affordable alternatives remains a challenge. Nonetheless, the Q8 e-tron is a worthy contender in the electric SUV market, and I hope more Malaysians will consider it.
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