Audi Q8 problems
The Audi Q8 is a mid-size luxury crossover SUV coupé made by Audi that was launched in 2018. It is the flagship of the Audi SUV line, and is being produced at the Volkswagen Bratislava Plant.
Overview
BMW launched its coupe SUV in 2008, the BMW X6, and Mercedes-Benz followed suit in 2015 with the GLE-Class Coupe. Audi never made a direct competitor but had been planning to once the new body style became a sales success for other brands.
The Q8 is the first SUV model under Audi's new head of design, Marc Lichte, and introduced a new design language for the brand's SUVs. The grill is larger and now has an octagonal shape, with both vertical and horizontal slats. The Q8 features full-laser headlamps and taillamps. The interior features the knob-less MMI system, three touch screens, and an enlarged virtual cockpit which has a fully digital instrument cluster. Additionally, both haptic and acoustic feedback are provided in response to user inputs, although the design can still lead to distracted driving.
The Q8 is slightly shorter than the Q7 in terms of both length and height but is slightly wider. It also has less cargo space than the Q7 due to its sloped roofline, and unlike the Q7, the Q8 is not available with third-row seats. According to the Volkswagen Group's product strategy the Audi Q8 shares its platform with the Lamborghini Urus, among other products.
European models went on sale in July 2018 and arrived at dealers in August 2018. As of 2019, is sold with both a three-litre turbocharged petrol V6 engine outputting 340 brake horsepower (250 kW; 340 PS) and a pair of three-litre turbocharged diesel engines outputting 231 brake horsepower (172 kW; 234 PS) and 286 brake horsepower (213 kW; 290 PS) respectively.
The plug-in hybrid model, marketed as the Q8 TFSI e quattro is based on the Q8 3.0 TFSI (340 PS) model with a 17.9 kWh battery. Pre-sales began in Germany and other European markets in 2020. Early models included 55 TFSI e quattro, 60 TFSI e quattro.
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Audi Q8 model years
Common Audi Q8 problems
The Audi Q8 is a luxury SUV that has been praised for its sleek design, comfortable ride, and impressive performance. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its common issues. Here are some of the most commonly reported problems with the Audi Q8, based on complaints from owners:
- Fuel System Issues: Some Audi Q8 owners have reported issues with the fuel system, including inaccurate fuel gauges and problems with the fuel injectors. These issues can cause the engine to misfire or run rough, and can also cause the vehicle to run out of gas unexpectedly.
- Transmission Issues: Some Audi Q8 owners have reported problems with the transmission, including slow shifting and a grinding noise or slipping out of gear. These issues can be particularly noticeable when accelerating from a stop or when climbing hills.
- Electrical System Issues: Some Audi Q8 owners have reported problems with the electrical system, including issues with the touchscreen display and dashboard warning lights. These issues can be caused by software problems or faulty components, and can often be resolved with a software update or replacement of faulty components.
- Air Conditioning System Issues: Some Audi Q8 owners have reported problems with the air conditioning system, including reduced cooling capacity and noisy operation. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including low refrigerant levels or a malfunctioning compressor.
- Suspension System Issues: Some Audi Q8 models may experience issues with the air suspension system, particularly with the air suspension compressor. These issues can lead to a bumpy and uncomfortable ride.
- Oil Leaks: Some Audi Q8 models may experience oil leaks, particularly with the 3.0-liter V6 engine. These leaks can be caused by faulty gaskets, oil pan leaks, or oil cooler leaks. Regular oil changes and inspections can help prevent these issues.
- Infotainment System Issues: Some Audi Q8 owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, including slow or unresponsive touch screens and problems with the navigation system. These issues can often be resolved with a software update or replacement of faulty components.
- Brake System Issues: Some Audi Q8 owners have reported problems with the brakes, including premature wear on brake pads and rotors. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including improper brake maintenance or faulty components.
- Engine Performance Issues: Some Audi Q8 owners have reported issues with the engine, including knocking noises and slow starting or stalling. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty sensors or components.
It is important to note that not all Audi Q8 models may experience these issues, and that regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent many of these problems from developing. If you are experiencing any of these issues with your Audi Q8, it is recommended that you take your vehicle to a qualified technician for diagnosis and repair.
How reliable is the Q8?
The 2021 Audi Q8 has a predicted reliability score of 68 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
Is the Audi Q8 expensive to maintain?
Audi Q8 Maintenance
Maintenance and repair costs for an Audi Q8 will amount to $3,430 after 5 years. Expenses include scheduled maintenance, normal wear and tear items and expected repairs.
How many miles can an Audi Q8 last?
Which are the most reliable Audi cars?
| Audi Models | Features | Number of miles |
|---|---|---|
| Q8 | Lovely cabins Comfortable seats | 200,000 to 250,000 miles |
| A6 | The new A6 has a reliability rating of 85.3% | 150,000 to 200,000 miles |
What is the best engine for the Audi Q8?
The 3.0-litre V6 petrol model badged the 55 TFSI generates 335bhp and can get from 0-62mph in 5.9 seconds before reaching a top speed of 155mph. If you want even more power, then it's worth considering the petrol-powered SQ8 (new cars get a 500bhp V8 petrol) or the flagship RS Q8 and its 592bhp.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Audi Q8 years
We have researched Audi problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Audi Q8 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Audi Q8 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Audi Q8 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Audi Q8 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Audi Q8 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Audi Q8 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Engine problems
- Steering problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Audi Q8 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Q8 model years
A total of 3 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Q8 model years
There were a total of 2 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 133 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Audi Q8 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Audi Q8 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Audi Q8 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-13
- VIN: WA1AVAF15KD
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: 2019 Audi Q8 3.0T quatro with 34,102 miles incurred broken left rear coil spring. Right rear most likely will have to be replaced soon. A SUV of this age and mfg shouldn't be having broken coils. This defect appears to be happening quite often. From the dealer's quote... "Recommended service: Coil Spring Replacement - Rear: LEFT REAR SUSPENSION COIL SPRING IS BROKEN (SEE VIDEO ATTACHED) RECOMMEND REPLACEMENT OF BOTH REAR SUSPENSION COIL SPRINGS AT THIS TIME. Suspension coil springs support the weight of the vehicle and determine the height at which it sits on the road. The springs allow the suspension system to move and adapt to changing road irregularities; they are under extreme pressure. $2,562.60"
Audi Q8 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-24
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-26
- VIN: WA1EVAF1XKD
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I was smelling fuel from my car so stopped to have it checked and was told there is a significant spray of fuel coming from the fuel rail and hitting the electrical wires. I was told that it could go on fire at anytime and the car cannot be driven. Audi has a recall for this exact issue for 2016-2018. This is clearly the same issue but they are not issuing a recall for 2019 models and it’s extremely dangerous.
Audi Q8 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-13
- VIN: WA1AVAF16KD
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Air conditioning failure, evaporator failure; known issue with Audi Q7, Audi Q8 not included in limited extended warranty
Audi Q8 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-01
- VIN: WA1AVAF10MD
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: High beam assistant: Malfunction
Audi Q8 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-18
- VIN: WA16AAGE5RB
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: Driving at 70 mph car lost power to wheels and coasted to stop. No response from accelerator. Battery was charged about 60%
Audi Q8 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-20
- VIN: WA1BVAF1XKD
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Audi Q8. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, a central locking malfunction warning sign was displayed. The contact stated that later when a rear passenger attempted to exit the vehicle, the door failed to open. The driver’s and passenger’s side rear doors failed to open. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed with a failure related to Technical Service Bulletin: DTC B14FF29. The vehicle was repaired under Warranty. The contact stated that the failure reoccurred, and the dealer was made aware of the failure; however, the contact was informed that the vehicle was no longer under Warranty. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that it was a known failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to have the vehicle diagnosed before any assistance would be provided. The failure mileage was approximately 9,800.
Audi Q8 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-31
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-03
- VIN: WA14AAGE1RB
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I have two Q8 Etron, and this q8 is also having the same issue as my other q8. When the windows are open half way, and the driver is trying to close the window because the car is moving faster speed, the window automatically retracts and opens the window even lower. this is really distracting to the driver especially when there is a safety hazard on the road or the weather. please address this issue to improve safety of the vehicle
Audi Q8 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-03
- VIN: WA15AAGE1RB
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: From the first day I purchase the vehicle, even when the sales person was walking me through the vehicle, the vehicle window was constantly retracting itself lower when i tried to close it. When the window is half way open, and the driver is trying to close the window, the window automatically retracts and lowers the window. causing distraction for the driver and safety hazards from the road and environmental conditions.
Audi Q8 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-12
- VIN: WA1BVAF19KD
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The alternator failed causing the vehicle to shutdown in the middle of traffic. I was on a surface road not the highway so I was able to get local police to assist. When it failed there was no car electrical system function, so I could not even turn on my emergency blinkers. This is apparently very common on Audis, as the same part was used to replace the alternator…. It took a month for the dealership to get the part in stock.
Audi Q8 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2023-03-31
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-21
- VIN: WA1EVAF16LD
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: The door locking on the Audi Q8 is consistently malfunctioning, indicating either open doors or locked doors that can still be opened. This poses an urgent safety risk as it increases the potential for theft and unauthorized access to the vehicle, jeopardizing the safety of occupants and their belongings. The malfunction must be addressed immediately to prevent further safety hazards. The malfunction compromises the safety of occupants, especially children, who could potentially open the doors while the car is locked. This increases the risk of accidents and theft, posing a serious threat to everyone's safety. Urgent action is required to rectify this issue and ensure the security of the vehicle. The problem with the central locking system in the Audi Q8 has been widely reported in the Audi community and forums, yet Audi has failed to acknowledge it as a widespread issue. This negligence puts the safety of Q8 owners at risk and must be addressed promptly to prevent any further incidents. The dealership has inspected the vehicle, but urgent action is needed to identify and rectify the malfunctioning component or system causing the locking issue. This will ensure the safety and security of the vehicle and its occupants. The malfunctioning doors on the Audi Q8 have been an ongoing issue since the vehicle was purchased, with no warning signs prior to the failures. This erratic behavior poses an imminent safety threat and requires immediate attention to prevent any further incidents.
Audi Q8 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-20
- VIN: WA1BVAF16KD
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: I was driving home from work when all of a sudden I got error messages: Electrical system malfunction! Please contact service; Start/ stop system: malfunction! Function unavailable. Please contact Service, yellow battery light and the car died. None of the safety features, locks, engine, or air condition worked and the car had to be towed to the dealership. Within 1 mile of the lights appearing the car died, putting my safety and those on the road at risk. I left in the middle of the street and had it towed a few hours later. I spoke to the dealership and was diagnosed and confirmed as a alternator- starter-generator issue and reading the Audi threads it is a common issue. The car has about 38,000 miles. I am the second owner and have had the car for less than 6 months and it has been well maintained.
Audi Q8 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-03-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-03-12
- VIN: WA1FVBF13MD
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I wish to report a critical safety issue with our Audi Q8, which experienced a complete electrical failure while traveling at 65 mph on the freeway on [XXX]. The warning indicators transitioned from yellow to red before the vehicle lost all functionality, including turn signals and emergency blinkers, posing a severe risk to my family and other motorists. We managed to coast to the roadside without incident, but the potential for a catastrophic outcome was alarmingly high. Audi has identified the problem as an alternator defect, which is apparently a known issue covered under an extended warranty for Audi Q8 2019-2022 for 7 years unlimited miles. However, the policy to address this defect only upon failure is unacceptable and dangerous. This malfunction could reoccur at any time, significantly endangering everyone on the road. Importantly, we frequently tow an Airstream trailer with our Q8. Had this failure occurred while towing, the consequences could have been disastrous on a large scale, endangering not only our family but also other road users due to the increased risk of a multi-vehicle collision, tipping over of Airstream or the Q8 if hit by vehicle who didn’t The replacement part's minimum of 3-8+ weeks wait time exacerbates our concern, leaving us without a vehicle or ability to use our Airstream which is one reason why we purchased the Audi Q8. I am aware of similar incidents of this failure in SF Bay Area across the past 4-6 months, underscores the need for immediate investigation and action to prevent future occurrences. We frequently travel on challenging routes like [XXX] in California as we own a home in Santa Cruz highlight the urgent need for a reliable vehicle. The thought of such a failure under those circumstances on a routine drive home or while towing, is unthinkable but could have happened to us at anytime. We urge the NHTSA to investigate this matter thoroughly to ensure the safety of all Q8 drivers public. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Audi Q8 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-28
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-28
- VIN: WA15AAGE2RB
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2024 Audi Q8. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V842000 (Electrical System) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was not contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Audi Q8 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-26
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-26
- VIN: WA1CVAF17LD
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Rear back up camera and 360 cameras do not work consistently and result in difficulty in backing up the car without complete visibility. This issue is subject to recall on 2021 and 2022 models but not on 2020. I wonder why this isn’t being addressed properly by Audi and NHTSA
Audi Q8 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-08
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-21
- VIN: WA1EVAF1XMD
- Components: POWER TRAIN,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: The vehicle recently started to behave uncharacteristically when navigating around the curbs and changing lanes, it feels like you have hit a patch of black ice or an oil slick which I attributed to needing new tires. I purchased new tires according to the vehicle Audi manufacturer specification and had an alignment done on 2/14/2024 as is required for all-wheel drive vehicles. The situation was explained to the Audi South Atlanta Service Desk on 2/14/2024 and was logged as "Customer states that the vehicle stutters/shakes and tires seem to lower when changing lanes & going around light curves. The Customer requested that the lane departure system and other related components be checked to confirm if they are operating as designed." Dealership feedback: "Test drove: vehicle driven 2 miles and operating normally when compared to the same or similar models. No DTC's detected & lane departure system operating properly at the same time. The only noise/feeling felt was coming from the Audit Quattro bind from the all-wheel drive electronic - normal behavior." Despite the Audi Service Dept diagnosis and analysis of the issue reported, the behavior continues and is very unnerving. It seems like the front and rear axles are not in sync with the Audi Quattro Electronic all-wheel drive system. I reported the matter to Audi of America, Inc. Customer Care, Case# 06125039 on 2/21/2024, and would like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to be aware of this situation in the event other owners of the Audit Q8 report the matter or this issue results in death or injuries.
Latest 5 recalls Audi Q8
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 13 recalls for different components of the Audi Q8.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Audi Q8 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-04-03
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION:FRONT PASSENGER
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2023 Audi S5 Cabriolet, A4 Allroad, Q5 Sportback, A3 Sedan, S5 Sportback, SQ7, TT Coupe, TT Roadster, RS5 Sportback, 2024 A8, E-Tron Quattro, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, Q8, RSQ8, 2023-2024 Q3, Q5, and Q7 vehicles. An electrical connection in the front passenger seat for the occupant detection system (ODS) control module may loosen and deactivate the front passenger air bag.
- Consequence: A deactivated front passenger air bag will not deploy during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the passenger seat occupant detection system control module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 8, 2024. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 69GU.
- Model: Audi Q8 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-20
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2023-2024 SQ8, RSQ8, Q8, Q7, and 2024 SQ7 vehicles. The driver's seat side air bag may have been improperly mounted to the seatback frame. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 214, "Side Impact Protection."
- Consequence: An improperly mounted air bag may not restrain an occupant as intended, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and reinstall the air bag as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 17, 2024. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 69GA.
- Model: Audi Q8 2024
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-20
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Audi) is recalling certain 2023-2024 SQ8, RSQ8, Q8, Q7, and 2024 SQ7 vehicles. The driver's seat side air bag may have been improperly mounted to the seatback frame. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 214, "Side Impact Protection."
- Consequence: An improperly mounted air bag may not restrain an occupant as intended, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and reinstall the air bag as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 17, 2024. Owners may contact Audi customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 69GA.
- Model: Audi Q8 2021
- Report Received Date: 2022-10-05
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A8, RS7, RS6 Avant, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, Q8, Q7, Q5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, Q5, A7, A6, A6 Allroad, A5 Sportback, A5 Coupe, A5 Cabrioleet, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad, E-Tron Sportback Quattro, SQ7, S5 Cabriolet, E-Tron Quattro, SQ8, SQ5 Sportback, SQ5, S8, S7, S6 Sedan, S5 Sportback, S5 Coupe, 2022 E-Tron GT, and 2021-2022 RSQ8 vehicles. Due to a software issue, a blank or black screen may be displayed instead of the rearview camera image when the vehicle is placed in reverse gear. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
- Consequence: A blank rearview camera display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the infotainment unit software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 25, 2022. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Volkswagen's number for this recall is 91DZ.
- Model: Audi Q8 2021
- Report Received Date: 2022-07-20
- Manufacturer: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi Q8, and 2020-2021 Audi Q7 vehicles. A component inside the fuel pump may break, causing the fuel pump to fail.
- Consequence: Fuel pump failure can cause an engine stall, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters, informing owners of the safety risk, were mailed September 15, 2022. A second notice will be sent once the remedy becomes available in late December 2022. Owners may contact Audi's customer service at 1-800-253-2834. Audi's number for this recall is 20DR.
Latest negative Audi Q8 car reviews
Latest positive Audi Q8 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2024
I drive this vehicle from Colorado to our summer retreat in Michigan and I absolutely love it! It's safe, roomy, and smooth, without feeling too 'couchy'. This is actually my 4th Audi in many years and I couldn't be happier with the quality and service. Even though it's a bit pricey, it's definitely worth it for the solid brand and the many years of enjoyment I've had with my Audis (including the 2002 Allroad, 2006 S3, 2014 Allroad, and 2019 Q8).
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Vehicle year: 2020
We are thrilled with our Q8! Despite what some reviews may say, this car is incredibly fast and provides a smooth, quiet ride. The technology is top-notch and we constantly receive compliments and inquiries about the model. We would rate it a solid 4 or 4.5 stars. However, there are a few areas where Audi designers could improve to make it a 5-star car: Firstly, it would be great to have remote start capability, especially for those hot Texas days. Secondly, it would be helpful to permanently turn off the auto-shutoff at stop lights. Thirdly, the console is a bit small and storage space is limited, making it difficult to store items like sunglasses. Lastly, the seat settings can be a bit confusing and don't always react the same way. Additionally, the software can be a bit unreliable, with occasional strange messages and certain menu options disabled for no apparent reason.
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Vehicle year: 2023
After months of research, I decided to purchase the Q8 with Premium Trim. I must say, the Q8 has exceeded my expectations as a sporty and luxurious SUV. As a tall man (6’6”), I feel right at home in the Q8 and driving it is a lot of fun! The SUV has all kinds of power and smoothness. The technology in the vehicle is a lot, but it becomes fairly intuitive after a few days. One thing to note is that the Q8 is bigger than you think - closer to the Q7 than the Q5. If you want a true midsized SUV, I’d recommend looking at the Q5. If I still had kids going to soccer, lacrosse, etc., I would have bought the Q7. The rear cargo area has enough room for my golf clubs and work materials, and the back seat has more room than any other vehicle I considered. I looked closely at and considered the BMW X5, Acura MDX, and the Mercedes GLE. Personally, I don’t care for the looks of the Lexus or Infiniti SUVs. The Range Rovers look great, but I was scared away by the reliability reports on Edmunds, and I don’t really see myself as a Jag or Porsche owner.
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Vehicle year: 2021
I purchased this car in 2019 after trading in my 2016 GLE 400. The ride quality and noise levels are significantly better than my previous car, and the air suspension option is fantastic. The four-wheel steering makes this large vehicle very maneuverable at low speeds. The luxury pack adds massaging seats and upgraded materials that really elevate this car to flagship status. My only complaints are that the driver assist features are not much better than my older generation Mercedes, and the wireless CarPlay often does not automatically connect. Additionally, most of the infotainment functions are locked out when the car is in motion, even for the passenger. Lastly, the touchscreens always attract fingerprints. Overall, I believe that the Q8 is one of the most comfortable and luxurious cars available for under $100k. I never thought I would consider a “coupe” SUV, but the Q8 does not feel like a compromise.
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Vehicle year: 2019
I bought my Q8 in late March '19 and it has been amazing so far. I have no regrets about my purchase. I got all the options I wanted, except for the $5k stereo and night vision. I found the perfect car on the lot with the major options I was looking for: Prestige, Lux Pkg, Year One, Adaptive Chassis, Tow Pkg, and Cold Weather Pkg. I actually went to the dealer to test drive a Q7, but when I saw the Q8 in the showroom, I knew it was the one for me. After two months of intense research, learning as much as I could about the vehicle, and checking inventories, I made the purchase. The Q8 drives more like a car than an SUV, and it handles great. It feels solid on the road and safe. The driver safety features are amazing. I fell in love with the interior on the first day - no other vehicle on the market (outside of Audi) has such a nicely integrated dash and technology. It looks great too. I've seen a handful on the road since I bought mine and they look amazing! The back seat space is huge - no complaints from any passengers. You feel pampered in this vehicle, for sure. The towing capacity is 7700 ibs. (I haven't towed with it yet.) The only downside is that it's easy to go fast without even trying or realizing how fast you're going! I've hit triple digits making a simple pass and it was unintentional. So be careful with this vehicle or you'll get a ticket for sure! There isn't much cabin storage, and there is no remote start (I guess it's illegal in Germany so they don't put it on their US imports either.) European models have self-parking (via phone app) which is not on US models. That would be amazing. In my updated review from October 2020, I can confirm that it is still an amazing vehicle. I have had no issues with the car, and everything works well. The MMI has blacked out once or twice, but it has come back on its own or after an MMI reset (holding down the volume knob for 10 seconds). I have just under 15k miles, and the car still runs smoothly and feels solid with no rattles or squeaks. The fit and finish are excellent.As of this date, I would absolutely buy this vehicle again.
Are you having problems with your Audi Q8?
Osbaldo Trantow 2025-05-06
Vehicle year: 2024
We love the design and technology of this car, but unfortunately we have been experiencing some issues with the front proximity sensors. Despite our concerns, we have not received the support we were hoping for from Audi. We were advised to disconnect the sensors, which we feel is not a viable solution as they are an important safety feature. We have taken the car back to Audi Chandler four times, but have only received excuses and no resolution. We were informed that Audi engineers are working on the issue, but we have yet to see any progress. The sensors continue to malfunction, flashing red lights and warning buzzers when there is nothing in front of the car, and remaining silent when they are needed. We reached out to Audi corporate to escalate the issue and find a solution, but unfortunately they were unable to assist us. As a result, we are disappointed with our experience with this $80k car. In comparison, the Hyundai we purchased for our children has proven to be more reliable. Thank you, Audi.
Jamal Miller 2025-04-22
Vehicle year: 2021
The auto start/stop feature of this car has been a big hassle for us. It has caused several near-accidents at intersections and has scared pedestrians when the vehicle suddenly lunges at them. Unfortunately, the firmware update in late 2020 did not improve this issue. The rear hatch does not respond to the open command from the keychain, nor the sensors underneath it that are supposed to open it when you wave your feet under them. Although we took the vehicle into Audi service to have it fixed, they were unable to do so. Additionally, the sensors are extremely erratic and go off for no reason. Despite these issues, the exterior design of the vehicle is quite appealing. However, based on our experience, we would not recommend this car and would advise caution when considering a more recent model from Audi.
Arnaldo Barton 2025-04-05
Vehicle year: 2020
Hello! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with Audi cars. We've been proud owners of Audi vehicles for the past 10 years, and our Q5 was one of the best cars we've ever had. We were so impressed with it that we decided to upgrade to the Q8, Audi's flagship SUV. Unfortunately, we've had some issues with it. The electronic locks have malfunctioned a few times, which is a safety concern, and the MMI system has been a bit quirky when connected to Apple Car Play. We've had to take it in for repairs a few times, and we're not happy with our dealership's response to the issues. Despite these problems, we're grateful for the great experience we had with our Q5. Thank you for listening to my story, and I hope you have a great day!
Justen Prosacco 2025-03-23
Vehicle year: 2023
At 85,000km, my 2019 Q8 experienced a range of issues including problems with the alternator, start stop, starter, fuel pump, and electrical sensors. Although the cruise control is still faulty, I am fortunate that my lease is not due until June 2023.
Silas Kovacek 2025-03-17
Vehicle year: 2023
The SUV is beautiful inside and out. Once you get rolling, the drive is wonderful! It could benefit from a little more power and torque, perhaps an additional 30 hp. However, there are a few issues that could be improved. The turbo response time could be quicker, and the oil-overfilled warning light has a faulty system design, which Audi has acknowledged in a TSB. Additionally, the auto stop & start feature cuts off a bit too quickly while still rolling, causing a rough start-up and exacerbating the turbo lag. Overall, though, it's a great car with some minor areas for improvement.