Audi has unveiled a refreshed Q8 SUV that introduces a more refined aesthetic, enhanced lighting technology and an array of interior and exterior upgrades. Audi South Africa is set to launch the Q8 with two main models, the Q8 and the high-performance SQ8, each available in the luxurious Platinum and Black Editions. 

New front and rear aprons introduce a more streamlined exterior, along with the revised Singleframe grille, air intakes and exhaust finishes. Exclusive features for the S line and SQ8 models include teardrop-shaped vertical inlays and bold, darkened bumper details.

Revised Audi Q8 on the road from front

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The Q8 gets an HD Matrix LED lighting system, a first for this model. This technology is paired with large OLED rear lights that come with four customisable rear light patterns. Both front and rear lights feature a proximity indication function that responds when a vehicle is detected within two metres. 

Inside, Audi has introduced refined luxury with an updated array of materials and finishes, including nine inlay options and contrast stitching on standard seat trims. Drivers can choose from sophisticated wood, carbon twill or aluminium inlays to add a personal touch.

Audi Q8 revised interior look

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The Q8’s standard features now include 22-inch alloy wheels, a 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control, a high-quality Bang & Olufsen sound system on the list. The Q8’s digital interior is equipped with the Audi virtual cockpit in full HD, offering advanced driver assistance information, including lane change and intersection alerts. 

The 45 TDI quattro is fettled with a 3,0-litre turbo-diesel engine, delivering 183 kW and 600 Nm of torque, reaching 100 km/h in 7 seconds. Meanwhile, the 55 TFSI option features a turbo-charged petrol engine producing 250 kW and 500 Nm of torque, achieving 0–100 km/h in 5,6 seconds.

At the top of the range, the SQ8 TFSI is equipped with a V8 engine, generating 373 kW and 770 Nm of torque. This model sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 4,1 seconds, with a top speed of 250 km/h. The SQ8 also features adaptive air suspension, all-wheel steering and electromechanical active roll stabilisation.

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Rear view of revised Audi Q8 on the road 

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The Q8’s suspension system features electronically controlled adaptive air suspension and optional all-wheel steering for enhanced manoeuvrability.

The Q8 will be available in South Africa in two trim lines: Platinum Edition and Black Edition. While the Platinum Edition offers generous specifications as standard, the Black Edition adds exclusive features, including privacy glazing for rear windows, black styling for the Singleframe surround, and mirror housings.

The Q8 45 TDI will start at R1 968 700 for the Platinum Edition and R2 011 700 for the Black Edition. The Q8 55 TFSI follows, priced from R2 015 400 for the Platinum and R2 058 400 for the Black Edition. Pricing for the SQ8 will be disclosed closer to its local launch date. Each Q8 model includes Audi’s 5-year/100 000 km Audi Freeway Plan

Sascha Sauer, Head of Audi South Africa, says: “As the flagship model in our Q range, the impressive new Q8 again sets the benchmark for sporty SUVs with a coupé aesthetic. It represents the epitome of Vorsprung durch Technik: striking design, forward-thinking digitalisation and potent yet efficient performance. We cannot wait for our current and future customers to experience the very essence of Audi when they test drive the new Q8.”

Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with

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