Prices and specifications of the refreshed Audi SQ8 e-tron SUV have been confirmed for the UK market, with Audi following the template of its other ‘S’ models by offering a two-tiered lineup in both SUV and Sportback body styles.
The entry-level Black Edition model starts at £97,500 for the SUV and an even £100,000 for the Sportback. It kicks the range off with a high level of standard equipment including features such as 21-inch alloy wheels, Matrix LED headlights, full leather super sports seats, four-zone climate control and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. This model is then available with various option packages including a Technology Pack Pro S (£2,595), a Tour Pack (£1,995) and City Assist package (£1,125).
Above the Black Edition sit the fully-loaded Vorsprung models at £114,500 and £117,000, with high-end inclusions such as Audi’s Digital Matrix LED headlights, larger 22-inch alloy wheels, soft-close doors, a panoramic glass roof, virtual door mirrors and an extended leather package incorporating an upholstered upper dashboard and door cards.
Fundamental to all SQ8 e-trons is the uprated EV powertrain that features three electric motors, one on the front axle and two on the rear. Audi quotes a peak power figure of 496bhp, but torque is rated at a huge 973Nm, helping the 2,650kg SUV achieve a 0-62mph time of 4.5 seconds. As well as adding more power to the powertrain, the rear axle’s secondary electric motor also gives the SQ8 an ability to fully augment drive at the rear wheels.
As with all the updated Q8 e-tron models, Audi has improved the battery options, the SQ8 featuring the larger 106kWh battery that unlocks a claimed 267 mile WLTP range. Peak charging speeds are also up, with a maximum 170kW charging capacity on a DC charge able to do a 10-80 per cent fill in 31 minutes.
The SQ8 e-tron will reach customers in the summer, rivalling other high-end premium electric SUVs like the BMW iX, Mercedes EQE SUV and incoming Maserati Grecale Folgore.
Are you looking forward to seeing the refreshed SQ8 on the road? Let us know in the comments below…
