Audi Q8 SQ8

Autocar India

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The two luxury SUVs belong to slightly different segments, with a roughly Rs 30 lakh price difference. That said, of the two, we would lean towards the Audi Q8 for long-run peace of mind in India. The Q8 tends to have fewer small issues as the years add up, its electronics feel better sorted, and the engine-gearbox feels very smooth even in slow traffic and in our heat. Audi also has a wider service reach in most cities, and parts supply is usually quicker, which matters when you want the car back on the road fast after a service or repair. Besides, you get a more powerful 6-cylinder engine and far more interior space.There are trade-offs. The Q8 costs a fair bit more and it is a large car to park in tight spaces. Running costs will be higher than the Velar, especially if most of your use is in the city. The Range Rover Velar is more of a style statement, inside and out, and while you miss out on a six-cylinder engine, what you do get is a diesel engine option.

Audi Q8

Land Rover Range Rover Velar

Autocar India

•12w

As you've rightly said, the Porsche Cayenne is probably your best option. No other large SUV handles as well as it does, and you get the option of two powerful turbo petrol engines - a 340hp V6 and a 500hp V8. However, if you're not concerned with having the Porsche badge, you should consider the Audi Q8, which is mechanically similar to the Cayenne, but comes in three performance levels, is set up to be more comfortable and usable, and is far more affordable too.At one end, there is the base V6 version, with the same 340hp engine, and at the other extreme is the 650hp, V8-powered RS Q8 Performance. However, Audi is about to launch the SQ8 - with the 500hp V8 - in India, and this could be the sweet spot between price and performance for you.

Porsche Cayenne

Audi Q8

Autocar India

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The Land Rover Defender hasn't undergone any mechanical changes since its launch, so it is unlikely its ride comfort will be any different from what you experienced. With large SUVs like these, as I'm sure you know from your X5, wheel size and suspension choice also have a huge bearing. Air-suspended Defenders ride significantly better than steel-sprung ones in our experience, so make sure you have tried both before making your decision. It isn't particularly sporty, though, and if that is what you're after, you might want to consider moving a bit higher up and checking out the Audi Q8, Porsche Cayenne or Range Rover Sport.

Audi Q8

Land Rover Defender

Porsche Cayenne

Land Rover Range Rover Sport