Three electric motors, more power, and electric torque vectoring improve the e-tron S Sportback's handling and agility.
PROS More power, responsive torque vectoring, it'll drift like a sports car.
CONS The regular e-tron weighs nearly 6000 pounds, this may be heavier; plans for the States are still to be determined.
Audi has unveiled the next evolution in its coming electric vehicle offensive, in the form of the 2021 Audi e-tron S. Building on its standard 95kWh e-tron, the S will receive a third electric motor and subsequent performance boost. With that enhancement, the e-tron S offers 320kW and 808Nm in normal driving mode and 370kW and 973Nm when in ‘Boost Mode’. By comparison, the current model e-tron produces 300kW and 664Nm.
No significant changes for 2021.
Pros Turbocharged 500-hp V8 moves the SQ8 with authority Four-wheel steering keeps the big SUV feeling nimble Surprisingly comfortable given its performance bent Stylish, distinctive exterior
Cons Infotainment system can be distracting to use Driver's seat has few adjustments Limited interior storage
For its sophomore year, the SQ8 soldiers on with only one change: It now comes standard with a built-in toll-road-payment transmission feature.Upgrading to the Prestige trim costs $5500 but adds a host of driver-assistance and luxury features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, a head-up display with navigation guidance, fancier LED exterior lighting elements, soft-close doors, headlamp washers, heated rear seats, and power rear sunshades. If none of that sounds particularly important to you, save the cash and go with the Premium Plus. All SQ8 models come with the best performance-enhancing features Audi can throw at them, so no matter which one you choose, you're getting the same driving experience.
PROS Powerful V-8 engine, high-quality interior trimmings, aggressive exterior design.
CONS Some may regret not going with the RS Q8, braking performance could be better, thirsty powertrain.
Pros Sports-car fast Posh and spacious interior Plenty of infotainment tech
Cons Alternatives are more fun to drive Cheaper Q8 50TDI makes more sense Petrol-powered alternatives are more dramatic
