2023 Audi SQ8 Performance

The SQ8's biggest bragging right is its potent V8 engine. The 500-horsepower power plant propels the SQ8 to sixty in around 4.3 seconds. This is extremely impressive for a vehicle of this size, but certain rivals manage the same run in less time. Both of the SQ8 models come standard with Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system, giving them more grip off of the line. The top-tier X6 M50i manages the run from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds. The Porsche Cayenne GTS Coupe also gets to sixty quicker than the SQ8, making the run in just 4.2 seconds. With all-season tires, the top speed is capped at 130 mph, but this rises to 155 mph with the available summer tires.

The SQ8 may be a few tenths of a second slower than its rivals in the US, but this isn't enough for it to truly fall behind. For those who frequently utilize trailers on holiday, the SQ8 is capable of towing up to an impressive 7,700 pounds, provided you spec the $750 Towing Package.

Both trim levels in the new Audi SQ8 lineup host the same power plant. The Premium Plus and Prestige are both driven by a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 TFSI engine that produces 500 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque. The motor is coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The eight-speed rows the gears effortlessly and manages to be both snappy and refined, a balance that is not easily achieved. Turbo lag is also barely noticeable, making the instant power that the SQ8 delivers a welcome advantage. There's also the added benefit of the satisfying growl that makes its way out of the quad-exhaust openings.

The SQ8's power outputs are superior to those of the Porsche Cayenne GTS Coupe and lesser BMW X6 derivatives. The former hosts a twin-turbo V8, but outputs are slightly lower at 453 horsepower and 457 lb-ft. For the BMW, however, there's an available M50i, which uses a 4.4-liter V8 to dole out a superior 523 horsepower, but less torque at 553 lb-ft of torque.

In terms of fuel economy, the SQ8 consumes about as much gas as you'd expect from a heavy and powerful performance SUV. The big Audi returns EPA estimates of 14/20/17 mpg city/highway/combined. This means that it's on par with the Porsche Cayenne GTS Coupe that returns extremely similar gas mileage figures of 15/19/17 mpg. The BMW X6 M50i is the most economical of the bunch, returning EPA estimates of 16/22/18 mpg. When the SQ8's 22.5-gallon fuel tank is at full capacity, it allows for around 382 miles of range before a stop at the gas station is necessary.