AUDI Q8 Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

Audi introduced the Q8 SUV Coupe in its lineup in 2018, and five years later, in the fall of 2023, the German automaker launched the refreshed version of this vehicle.

The Q8 was the first vehicle developed under a new head of the design department, Marc Lichte, and he was the one who created the brand's new design language. That worked well for a while, but by 2023, customers needed something fresh without spoiling the look of the vehicles. So, there were several exterior changes for the updated Q8, some minor interior upgrades, and improved drivetrains.

On the outside, the automaker offered the wide single-frame octagonal grille with an option of piano-black color on it, apart from the silver or chromed ones available for several trim levels. Furthermore, the trims that visually connected the main grille with the headlights sported matching colors, emphasizing Audi's new headlamps on the 2023 Q8. While the entire range got full-LED headlights, the automaker offered an option for Matrix LED ones. From its profile, the largest SUV Coupe in Audi's lineup kept the same design. However, the automaker offered an option for black trims around the windows instead of chromed ones. The automaker offered the Q8 with wide light alloy wheels ranging between 21 inches and 23 inches for a better exterior look. Finally, at the back, the raked-forward tailgate featured a roof spoiler on its upper side. Another significant change for the taillights, which were upgraded from the formerly used LEDs to OLEDs.

Inside, there were just minor changes to the overall look of the dashboard. Audi didn't even bother to offer a new design for the steering wheel since customers loved the existing one. Like the 2018 model year, the 2023 featured a pair of high-bolstered seats at the front and a bench seat profiled for two for the rear passengers. But still, it installed three seat belts there. Thanks to the 40/20/40 flat-folding mechanism of the rear seats' seatbacks, owners could expand the trunk space, which was slightly smaller than on its Q7 sibling. There was one noticeable improvement in the infotainment system. Audi added a few third-party apps for the MMI unit, including Spotify and Amazon Music.

Under the hood, Audi carried over the engines from the 2018 model year but improved the eight-speed automatic gearboxes. As a result, despite offering the same power as the non-facelifted version, the 2023 Audi Q8 managed to get better acceleration times. In addition, the integrated belt-driven starter-generator helped the vehicle lower its emissions. The car could shut off its engine at lower speeds, such as when approaching a stop light, and then instantly restart it when the driver pressed the accelerator.

All-new for 2018, the Q8 replaced the big boss in the SUV range, the Q7.

With the elegance of a sports coupe and the practicality off a real SUV, the Q8 was the first to present the Audi’s new design language.

New dynamic and dramatic lines, a new single frame grille, sculpted rear lights with lights animation, all gave the feeling of strength, power and stability.

Featuring a huge wheelbase with short overhangs, the Q8 had a coupe’s proportions. Also coupe-like were the frameless doors, both front and rear.

Unlike many competitors in the class, the Q8 was a real 5-seater with great headroom and legroom, even if, rom the outside, the sloping roof might have given the impression of cramped seats in the back.

A luxurious, comfortable and spacious SUV, the Q8 offered a great trunk size with 605 liters capacity, whereas longer items could be stored by folding flat the rear seats, increasing the storage capacity to an immense 1,755 liters.

Inside was a relaxing place every driver would have enjoyed being in, with the floating-like digital dashboard and the ambient lighting. Premium quality materials were used throughout the cabin, and that came as no surprise, as Audi’s interiors were always among the most elegant and luxurious.

With an engine choice with power ranging from 227 hp to 335 hp, the powerful units offered a refined and engaging ride.