Audi Q8

The cabin on the 2019 Audi Q8 is refreshing. The dashboard, for example, is simple and elegant. Besides the matte black and grey inserts, there is a thick of Piano Black strip running horizontally across the dashboard, also holding the touchscreen infotainment system. There is another display at the centre console, which is responsible for temperature control and other comfort bits.

The seats are well cushioned and contoured to offer comfort. Also, they are wrapped in perforated Valcona and Cricket leather combination. However, the 3-spoke multi-function steering does not get the sporty flat-bottom approach, which could have been a fun addition.

The Audi Q8 is an SUV from a different level. It has been designed to stand out from the current design trends of the brand itself, thanks to the revamped front fascia. The octagonal grille, with checkered flaps, call to be noticed. There is a lot of black additions up front with a sleek pair of LED Matrix headlamps (optional).

The SUV gets 21 or 22-inch alloy wheels of different designs, though the 285-section tyres are constant. It has tinted privacy glass all across, along with a panoramic sunroof. The rear window also gets sunblinds to ensure optimum comfort during hot summer days.

The Audi Q8 is a gem when it comes to cruising on the highway. The power and torque are abundant, and so is the ride quality. However, what you will miss most is the steering feedback when you are operating it more, like on city roads.

The cabin too is quite plush and offers decent comfort for long drives. However, the rear seats aren’t as good as the front ones when it comes to long drives.

One of the best things about the Audi Q8 is that it is offered in two engine options - TFSI and TDI. The 55 TFSI petrol has a 3.0-litre capacity with a V6 cylinder alignment. This setup makes a humongous power of 250 kW along with a maximum torque of 500 Nm.

The other engine option is a 50 TDI, which came along late in 2019. This engine also has the same 3.0-litre V6 setup but makes an inferior 210 kW of power, which, however, enough for highway cruising, thanks to the abundant torque on offer.

The Audi Q8 does not disappoint any of the buyers or owners on its safety front. It is equipped with all the standard fitments to make things better for the occupants. Disc brakes for all the wheels are standard, and so are the anti-lock braking system, brake assist and electronic brakeforce distribution. The cabin gets safety airbags for all occupants, including -front passenger, side and curtain airbags.

Plus, there is a lot more of the driver’s assistance. These include parking plus for both front and rear, intersection crossing assist, lane change assist, 360-degree camera, hill hold assist, Audi pre-sense for the front and rear and adaptive cruise control.

The Audi Q8 is an exceptional SUV for the Australian market and the same can be proven by the fact that despite the dipping sales, it ended up being the second most sold model in its class. It has power, it has elegance and everything that anyone would expect from a luxury car. Hence, if you love Audi as a brand and are looking to buy an SUV, choosing the Q8 would make a lot of sense.