The SQ8 is the latest addition to the Audi Q8 line-up, slotting between the standard model and the range-topping RS Q8 Performance. For buyers considering Audi's flagship SUV, could the new SQ8 variant, which positions itself as a middle ground in terms of both performance and price, be the one to go for? That's what we set out to find, based on a comparison of their respective specifications and features on paper.
Audi Q8 vs SQ8 vs RS Q8 Performance: Engine specs
Starting with the powertrains, the standard Q8 uses a 340hp V6, while the SQ8 brings in the RS Q8 Performance's V8, albeit in a lower state of tune. Compared with the regular model, the SQ8 makes a sizeable jump in output, with 167hp and 270Nm more on tap. That also shows up in acceleration, reaching 100kph from rest 1.5 seconds quicker than the regular Q8 (claimed by Audi). The RS Q8 Performance takes things a step as it has 133hp and 80Nm more than the SQ8, trimming 0.5 seconds off the sprint time. It's also the only one here that can go past 300kph without a limiter, which underlines its performance-first brief.
Audi Q8 vs SQ8 vs RS Q8 Performance: Mechanical differences
The standard Q8 misses out on all-wheel steering – which the SQ8 gets – giving the mid-spec model a more advanced setup. The RS Q8 gets ceramic brakes and active-roll stabilisation as standard, and both are available as an optionon the SQ8.
Audi Q8 vs SQ8 vs RS Q8 Performance: Features
Exterior
Talking about the exterior, all three variants get features like LED headlights and DRLs, soft-close doors, a powered tailgate, a rear wiper and washer, and LED tail-lights bridged by a thin light bar as standard. The distinction, however, comes in the form of design tweaks to the front grille, bumpers and wheels. Also, both the standard model and SQ8 sit on 21-inch wheels; however, while the latter offers 22-inch wheels as an option, the RS Q8 Performance goes a step further with 23-inch units. Variant-specific S and RS badges along with the iconic red rhombus further help separate it visually.
Interior
Inside, all three get the same set of screens: a 12.3-inch driver's display, a 10.1-inch touchscreen and an 8.8-inch climate control touchscreen. They also get 4-zone AC, paddle shifters and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. Where the differences come in is in creature comforts and seat functionality. The SQ8 offers features like seat ventilation, massage and rear-seat heating, albeit as optional extras; the regular Q8 skips these entirely. Steering adjustment also improves as you move up the range, with the Q8 getting manual adjustment, and the SQ8 and RS Q8 offering electric adjustment; the latter is also the only one to get heated steering.
The Q8 gets a fixed glass roof, while the SQ8 upgrades to an openable panoramic sunroof. Given its performance billing, the RS Q8 Performance does not get a sunroof as standard, but it can be had as an optional extra. It also comes with more comprehensive seat memory (extending beyond just the driver), and standardises features like ventilated seats, and an air ioniser and fragrance system; these are either optional or unavailable on the lower variants. There's also the option to upgrade to a 23-speaker setup on the RS Q8.
Audi SQ8 vs standard Q8 vs RS Q8 Performance: Price
Evidently, the Audi Q8 range is neatly tiered, but what stands out is how wide the price gaps are. The standard Q8 undercuts the SQ8 by Rs 68 lakh, while the RS Q8 Performance costs Rs 56 lakh more than the mid-spec variant. It's worth noting, though, that the SQ8’s Rs 1.78 crore price, announced on March 17, 2026, is introductory and could rise later. What this effectively does is position the SQ8 as the middle ground, offering a meaningful step up in performance and features without crossing into full RS territory. It also helps that the SQ8 comes with a long list of optional equipment, which should appeal to luxury SUV buyers.
Saptarshi Mondal
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Rivan RS 
Dipan Sur
