The rise of the “coupe SUV” once seemed like a niche trend, potentially sacrificing practicality for style. However, after spending a week thoroughly examining the 2019 Audi Q8, it’s clear that this vehicle is not just a stylistic statement but a genuinely compelling luxury SUV. Audi has masterfully blended the spaciousness and versatility expected from an SUV with the sleek aesthetics and engaging driving dynamics of a coupe, resulting in a vehicle that demands serious consideration from any luxury car buyer. The 2019 Audi Q8 successfully navigates the balance between form and function, delivering a package that is both visually striking and remarkably practical.
Striking Design and Presence of the 2019 Audi Q8
The 2019 Audi Q8 distinguishes itself from competitors like the BMW X6 and Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe through its sophisticated and less overtly aggressive design language. While sharing the coupe SUV silhouette, the Q8’s execution is more refined. The slope of the roofline, while pronounced, integrates seamlessly into the overall design, creating a profile that is both sporty and elegant. In fact, the Q8 arguably surpasses even its VW Group stablemates like the Lamborghini Urus and Bentley Bentayga in terms of sheer aesthetic appeal. Its design is a masterclass in modern automotive styling, managing to be both bold and understated.
The rear of the 2019 Audi Q8 is particularly noteworthy. The taillights, with their futuristic design, contribute significantly to the vehicle’s distinctive look, almost reminiscent of something straight out of science fiction. In a market where headlight designs are shrinking and grilles are expanding to almost cartoonish proportions, the Q8 achieves a harmonious balance. The grille, while substantial, is proportionally integrated with the headlights, and cleverly conceals the sensors and hardware for the advanced driver-assistance systems. The overall exterior design of the 2019 Audi Q8 is cohesive and impactful, especially when finished in a premium color like Glacier White Metallic, as featured on the test model.
Stepping inside the 2019 Audi Q8 reveals an interior that is even more impressive than its exterior. Audi’s MMI Touch Response system, a multi-award-winning infotainment interface, is seamlessly integrated into the dashboard. The dual-screen setup is housed within a large expanse of glass that spans the width of the dash, creating a clean and futuristic aesthetic. High-quality materials are evident throughout the cabin, with subtle use of vinyl-like materials in less prominent areas and cleverly integrated air vents that blend into the trim. The matte-finish wood accents add a touch of understated luxury, elevating the interior ambiance. The cabin design of the 2019 Audi Q8 sets a new benchmark for SUV interiors, combining technology with premium materials in a truly sophisticated manner.
Practicality and Space: Challenging Coupe SUV Conventions
Despite its coupe-like roofline, the 2019 Audi Q8 defies expectations in terms of interior space and practicality. The front seats offer generous room and excellent visibility in all directions, including the rear, where the rearview mirror effectively utilizes the available glass area. Rear passenger space is equally impressive. Even taller occupants will find ample headroom and legroom, making the 2019 Audi Q8 a comfortable choice for families or those frequently carrying passengers. Cargo space is another area where the Q8 excels. Boasting a class-leading 30.5 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the rear seats, the 2019 Audi Q8 provides ample room for luggage, groceries, or equipment, further proving that style does not come at the expense of functionality.
The distinctive rear design of the 2019 Audi Q8 ensures it stands out in the crowded SUV market. Alt text: 2019 Audi Q8 rear view showcasing futuristic taillights and coupe SUV profile.
Cutting-Edge Technology: MMI Touch Response and Virtual Cockpit
Audi’s MMI Touch Response infotainment system in the 2019 Audi Q8 is a standout feature, widely regarded as one of the best in the automotive industry, particularly its dual-screen implementation. This system elevates the user experience, providing intuitive control and a wealth of features.
The system is centered around two primary touchscreens. The lower 8.6-inch display is primarily dedicated to climate control functions, but also houses controls for features like steering wheel heating and the auto stop-start system. This screen also doubles as a handwriting recognition pad, which is remarkably fast and accurate for inputting navigation destinations or other text. The responsiveness of the system is truly impressive, often booting up and ready to use almost instantaneously upon starting the vehicle.
The upper 10.1-inch screen handles the more traditional infotainment functions, including radio, navigation, media, and phone connectivity. The interface is clean and logically organized, bearing similarities to Porsche’s latest PCM system in its simplicity and ease of use. Response times are instantaneous, and the haptic feedback provided by the touchscreens adds a tactile dimension to the interaction, making it feel natural and intuitive. While some might miss physical dials and buttons, the system’s design is so well-executed that they are hardly missed, with the exception of a physical volume knob which remains for quick adjustments.
For drivers who desire even more information directly in their line of sight, the 2019 Audi Q8 offers the Virtual Cockpit. This 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster replicates much of the information displayed on the 10.1-inch infotainment screen, allowing drivers to access navigation, media, and vehicle information directly in front of them. While Virtual Cockpit is becoming increasingly common across the VW Group lineup, it remains a leader in digital gauge displays thanks to its customizability and ease of use, controlled via steering wheel-mounted buttons.
In terms of driver assistance technology, the 2019 Audi Q8 comes standard with autonomous emergency braking. The test vehicle was further equipped with the optional Driver Assistance package, adding features like adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, traffic sign recognition, and active lane assist. While the Q8 utilizes advanced hardware like the zFAS controller and lidar emitters, the functionality of these systems is comparable to other premium automakers. The adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist systems operate smoothly and effectively, though the lane keep assist is intentionally less intrusive than systems from BMW or Mercedes-Benz, requiring a more hands-on approach to driving.
Driving Experience: Performance and Refinement
Currently, the 2019 Audi Q8 is offered with a single engine option: a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 producing 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This engine, also found in the Audi A6 and A7 models, provides ample power and performance for the Q8. An even more potent SQ8 variant is anticipated in the future for those seeking enhanced performance.
The V6 engine delivers strong acceleration and confident power delivery across the rev range. Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system, with its rear-biased torque distribution, provides excellent traction, particularly beneficial in challenging conditions. The 8-speed automatic transmission operates seamlessly, shifting smoothly and unobtrusively in the background.
One minor quirk noted in the driving experience is a slight hesitation or “weirdness” in the throttle response when starting from a complete stop. Whether due to turbo lag or throttle mapping, initial acceleration can feel slightly delayed, followed by a more abrupt surge of power. While this can be somewhat mitigated by utilizing the customizable Individual drive mode and setting the engine to “Sport” and transmission to “Comfort,” it does not entirely eliminate the behavior. Setting the transmission to “Sport” mode can also lead to higher engine revs and potentially reduced fuel economy during normal driving.
The 2019 Audi Q8 incorporates a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. However, its primary function is to enhance the smoothness and duration of the stop-start system, rather than providing significant performance gains like Mercedes-Benz’s EQ Boost system. Fuel economy is rated by the EPA at 17 mpg city and 22 mpg highway, figures that are achievable but not particularly impressive for the segment.
Ride quality in the 2019 Audi Q8 is generally excellent. Even without the optional air suspension, the standard suspension effectively absorbs road imperfections, providing a comfortable and composed ride, even on less-than-perfect road surfaces. Cabin noise levels are well-controlled, with wind noise becoming noticeable only at higher speeds above 75 mph. Compared to some BMW SUVs tested, the Q8 exhibits a quieter cabin overall.
The 2019 Audi Q8 offers a rewarding driving experience that feels both modern and engaging. Alt text: Audi Q8 driving on road, showcasing dynamic design and driving appeal.
Trim Levels and Value: Specifying Your Ideal 2019 Audi Q8
The tested 2019 Audi Q8 was the Premium Plus trim, positioned just below the top-tier Prestige trim. The Premium Plus trim adds a significant level of equipment over the base Premium trim, including larger wheels, ambient interior lighting, a surround-view camera system, ventilated front seats, wireless device charging, and four-zone climate control, among other features. The price premium for the Premium Plus over the base trim is approximately $4,000. Additional options on the test vehicle included the Driver Assistance Package, a towing package, and a Cold Weather Package, bringing the total price to $77,090.
For an ideal specification, starting with the Premium Plus trim at $71,400 is recommended. Personalization options like vibrant paint colors and interior trim choices allow for customization without significant cost increases. While the Driver Assistance Package is a worthwhile consideration, opting for the air suspension at $2,750 would further enhance ride comfort. Adding the heated steering wheel for $600 completes a well-equipped 2019 Audi Q8 at a price point that, while still premium, represents good value within its competitive set.
Competition and Conclusion: The 2019 Audi Q8’s Position in the Luxury SUV Market
The 2019 Audi Q8 faces competition from established rivals and newer entrants in the luxury coupe SUV segment. The BMW X6, a direct competitor, offers a slightly lower starting price but is an older model generation. The Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, in the US market, is primarily available in higher-performance AMG guise, pushing its starting price higher. The Porsche Cayenne, while similarly priced, prioritizes sportier driving dynamics, whereas the Q8 strikes a balance of luxury and performance. Audi’s own Q7, a three-row SUV, serves as a more traditional SUV alternative within the Audi lineup.
In conclusion, the 2019 Audi Q8 transcends the initial perception of coupe SUVs as style-focused compromises. It delivers on both style and substance, offering a striking design that doesn’t sacrifice interior space or practicality. The driving experience is refined and engaging, and the technology is at the forefront of the automotive industry. Audi has successfully created a compelling luxury SUV that deserves serious attention from buyers in this segment. The 2019 Audi Q8 is not just a fashionable choice; it’s a smart and sophisticated one, representing a new benchmark in the luxury coupe SUV category.
