New Audi Q8 refreshed for 2023 with exterior design updates

The range-topping Audi Q8 SUV has received a mid-life update

The Audi Q8 was launched in 2019 as the sportier coupe-SUV variant of the Q7 to spearhead Audi’s SUV lineup. Now, the Q8 has been updated for 2023 and Audi has gone to work on the car’s exterior and interior, while retaining the same selection of V6 and V8 engines. 

A large coupe-SUV with seating only for five, the Audi Q8 is a clear-cut rival to the BMW X6 and Mercedes GLE Coupe – both of which have received timely facelifts themselves only this year. 

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From the outside we can see the Q8 has got a new grille insert up front with revised air intakes to the side and the standard-fit LED headlights (Audi’s Matrix LEDs are an option) come with a new light signature. Wheel sizes from 20-inch up to 23-inch are available, the rear light design has been tweaked and various trim pieces such as the rear diffuser, underside guard and door surrounds are now finished in contrasting colours to distinguish the different Q8 trim levels. 

As for the Audi SQ8 performance model (the range-topping RS Q8 will be revealed at a later date), it receives a reshaped lip spoiler, a new underride guard, and a redesigned rear diffuser. The front grille also gets a new look and the front air intakes now have honeycomb inserts. 

In order to help the Q8 stand out further from its revised rivals, it has been given technological upgrades inside, too. The range of apps on Audi’s MMI infotainment system has grown and passengers can now use apps from third-party providers, such as Spotify and Amazon music. Driver assistance systems like lane change warning, crossroad assist and traffic light information have been given greater prominence within the Audi ‘virtual cockpit’. A rearview camera, park assist, high beam assist and keyless entry all come as standard.  

Audi canned the plug-in hybrid Q8 quite recently so it's no surprise that option has not been brought back with this mid-life update. The UK range consists of two diesel 3.0-litre V6s, a petrol 3.0-litre V6 and a petrol V8. All V6 engines come with an eight-speed automatic transmission, permanent four-wheel drive and a 48v mild-hybrid system with a belt-driven starter motor.

Kicking off the Q8 lineup is the 45 TDI with 228bhp and 500Nm of torque. That’s enough for a 7.1 second 0-62mph time and a 140mph top speed. The other diesel is offered with the 50 TDI, which is tuned to 282bhp and 600Nm of torque for a 0-62mph time of 6.1 seconds and a 150mph top speed. 

The 55 TFSI is up next and its petrol V6 is good for 335bhp and 500Nm of torque for a 5.6-second 0-62mph time and top speed that is limited to 155mph. The sporty SQ8 employs a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 for 500bhp and 770Nm of torque to propel it to 62mph in 4.1 seconds. Cylinder deactivation also comes on the V8 model, resulting in a claimed fuel economy figure of 22.7mpg. 

Pricing for the updated Q8 hasn’t been revealed yet but we expect it to rise over the outgoing model. Expect to pay around £80,000 for the entry-level version and over £100,000 for the SQ8. 

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