2020 Audi Q8 Review

Just about every European luxury automaker offers a coupe-like crossover SUV these days. The typical approach is to take an established SUV and give it a sleeker roofline to create a more stylish look. Audi, for its part, debuted its Q8 just last year.

The 2020 Q8 is essentially a two-row version of the seven-passenger Q7. Pleasingly, the styling makeover hasn't taken too much of a bite out of rear headroom and cargo room. An expansive overhead area and an abundance of legroom allow tall occupants to sit comfortably in any of the five seats. The Q8 also has respectable cargo room thanks to its square-shaped liftgate opening.

The Q8 is not only more practical than its direct rivals, but it's also pleasingly sporty. You can make quick progress along a curvy road thanks to the Q8's strong turbocharged V6 and stable handling. The Q8 also provides a compliant ride quality, and its optional air suspension further softens harsh impacts. Like any good luxury SUV, the Q8 is whisper-quiet inside at city and highway speeds.

The Q8 exhibits a few faults, some of which — such as reduced rear visibility — are common among coupe-like SUVs. There are a few Q8-specific drawbacks as well, including a lazy transmission response and a disappointing lack of interior storage for small personal items.

There's also the price: The Q8 costs many thousands of dollars more than a similarly equipped and more useful Q7. But such is the case with all coupe variants, and the segment's sales over the last decade prove that some buyers are willing to spend for high style. If that sounds like you, the 2020 Audi Q8's relative practicality and sporty dynamics make it a top model to consider.

The 2020 Audi Q8 is a two-row midsize luxury SUV that comes standard with all-wheel drive, an adaptive suspension, and many safety features and infotainment functions. It's available in three trims. Even the base Premium model comes well-equipped. The Premium Plus includes additional luxury equipment, while the Prestige offers a few exotic technology features.