Audi has recently unveiled the 2024 Audi SQ8 E-Tron, the successor to the E-Tron S, with an updated name and an enhanced price tag. This flagship performance electric SUV is set to hit Australian showrooms between April and June 2024, offering a thrilling driving experience for electric vehicle enthusiasts.
Pricing and Upgrades
The 2024 Audi SQ8 E-Tron comes with Audi's new electric SUV nomenclature and is available in both a traditional wagon and a coupe-like Sportback body style. With a starting price of $173,600 for the SQ8 E-Tron and $180,600 for the SQ8 Sportback E-Tron (excluding on-road costs), these models come at a premium of $8,025 over their predecessors. However, this increase in price is justified by the extended driving range offered by the new SUV.
One of the key upgrades in the SQ8 E-Tron is the adoption of a 106kWh nickel-cobalt-aluminium battery, replacing the 86kWh lithium-ion battery used in the E-Tron S. This larger battery allows for a claimed driving range of 494km and 513km for the SQ8 wagon and Sportback respectively, a significant improvement from the previous models' range of 374km and 379km. Additionally, the new battery can be charged at up to 170kW, compared to the previous 150kW charging capacity.
Performance and Design
The increased driving range of the SQ8 E-Tron is also attributed to its more aerodynamic exterior, which features minor changes that contribute to a slightly lower drag coefficient. These enhancements not only improve efficiency but also enhance the overall driving experience.
Under the hood, the Audi SQ8 E-Tron retains its powerful tri-motor layout, with one electric motor connected to each rear wheel and one powering the front axle. This configuration delivers an impressive output of up to 370kW and 973Nm of torque, ensuring exhilarating performance on the road.
Interior Features
Inside the SQ8 E-Tron, you'll find a host of luxurious features and advanced technologies. The 12.3-inch digital dash, 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, and 8.6-inch touchscreen for air-conditioning controls from the E-Tron S are carried over to the new model. The cabin is adorned with Valcona leather upholstery, creating an elegant and comfortable environment. The SQ8 E-Tron also boasts a 16-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system and four-zone climate control, further enhancing the driving pleasure.
Safety and Convenience
The 2024 Audi SQ8 E-Tron is set to arrive in Australian showrooms throughout the second quarter of 2024, giving customers ample time to prepare for its arrival. With its striking design, impressive driving range, and luxurious features, this flagship performance electric SUV is sure to make a statement on the roads.
In terms of safety and convenience, the SQ8 E-Tron is equipped with a range of advanced features. These include autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control with stop and go and traffic-jam assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, front and rear parking sensors, a 360-degree camera, safe exit warning system, and intersection crossing assist. These technologies ensure a safe and stress-free driving experience for both the driver and passengers.
Summary
The 2024 Audi SQ8 E-Tron represents Audi's commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric performance vehicles. With its enhanced driving range, aerodynamic design, and luxurious features, this flagship SUV sets a new standard for electric vehicles in terms of performance and sophistication. If you're in the market for a high-performance electric SUV, mark your calendars for April to June 2024 when the Audi SQ8 E-Tron arrives in Australian showrooms. Get ready to experience electric driving like never before.
(This article is sourced from drive.com.au and curated by Thetransporteronline24)
