It's easy to spot the biggest difference between the 2021 Audi Q8 and the Audi e-tron just by looking at the name. But there's more than just gasoline versus electric. Both vehicles will give you unbridled power, a luxurious ride, and state-of-the-art technology. Keep reading to discover the similarities and differences between the Q8 and e-tron. Of course, the best way to feel the difference is come into Audi Columbus for a test drive to help make up your mind.
2021 Audi Q8 vs 2021 Audi e-tron: Size & Utility
One of the main reasons you choose a two-row SUV is for size. Both the 2021 Audi Q8 and the e-tron offer plenty of room for up to 5 passengers. While they're both similar in cabin space, the e-tron just edges the Q8 in headroom, while the Q8 turns the tables and offers just a bit more leg room. There's room for everyone in whichever vehicle you choose, the e-tron delivering 102 cubic feet of passenger volume with the Q8 offering 105 cubic feet. There's plenty of cargo space as well; the 2021 Q8 gives you 30.5 cubic feet behind the second row and if you fold the rear seats down, you get an impressive 60.7 cubic feet of room. The 2021 e-tron provides 28.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and a max cargo volume of 56.5 cubic feet.
2021 Audi Q8 vs 2021 Audi e-tron: Safety
Audi takes your safety very seriously and you can tell as both vehicles were awarded five stars by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Both offer standard full LED headlamps with High Beam Assist, parking sensors, Forward Collision Warning, and Automatic Emergency Braking. The 2021 e-tron has standard Rear Cross-Traffic Alert to help avoid accidents while backing out, while it's an available feature on the Q8. Audi Pre Sense® comes standard on the 2021 Q8, a system that helps keep you safe in the event of a collision. The Q8 also has an available night vision camera, where the e-tron does not currently offer this feature.
2021 Audi Q8 vs 2021 Audi e-tron: Interior Comfort
The second you slip behind the wheel of either the 2021 Audi Q8 or the Audi e-tron, you're surrounded by luxurious comfort. Both vehicles offer standard leather upholstery and heated front seats, while the 2021 e-tron has a standard heated steering wheel. Ventilated front seats with massage functions are available on the higher trims of both SUVs as well as heated rear seats. The Q8 has two available climate control options, depending on which trim level you choose; tri-zone and quad-zone. The 2021 e-tron has standard quad-zone climate control for a more comfortable cabin.
2021 Audi Q8 vs 2021 Audi e-tron: Technology
You can find the latest technology in both the 2021 Audi Q8 and the 2021 Audi e-tron, keeping you easily and intuitively connected to the outside world. Both come standard with the customizable 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit for easy access to music, phone, and navigation. They both also come with a standard dual-screen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto®, Amazon Alexa®, and Bluetooth®. Available premium audio systems and wireless device charging are available on both vehicles, to make those long drives more enjoyable.
2021 Audi Q8 vs 2021 Audi e-tron: Performance
The only thing these two vehicles have in common when it comes to performance is an abundance of power. The 2021 Audi Q8 has a standard 3.0L V6 that delivers a stunning 335 horsepower and 369 lb/ft of torque. It will take you from 0-60 in a scant 5.6 seconds. Paired with 8-speed automatic transmission and the quattro® All-Wheel Drive, the Q8 provides controlled handling and a smooth ride.
The 2021 Audi e-tron has twin electric motors and a 95-kWh lithium ion battery, combining for 355 horsepower and 414 lb/ft of torque. The e-tron's all-wheel drive system and single-speed automatic transmission give you a practically silent, smooth ride. On a full charge, the 2021 e-tron gets a range of up to 222 miles and earns up to 77 highway MPG. You can charge from 0-100% at home or at a Level 2 charging station in about 9 hours, or a Level 3 charging station and go from 0-80% in just 30 minutes.
2021 Audi Q8 vs 2021 Audi e-tron: Come Test Drive Both at Audi Columbus
With a starting MSRP of only $65,900, the 2021 e-tron is the first luxury electric SUV from Audi and it certainly lives up to its name, delivering impressive power, a lavish cabin, and cutting-edge technology. The 2021 Audi Q8 delivers all of those qualities as well, with a starting MSRP of just $68,200. Whether you choose the reliable, eco-friendly e-tron or the sporty, powerful Q8, you know you're getting pure Audi in every drive. Stop in to the showroom at Audi Columbus today to take a test drive.
| 2021 Audi Q8 |  | 2021 Audi e-tron Sportback |
| $68,200 | Starting MSRP* | $69,100 |
| 335 | Standard Horsepower | 402 w/ Boost Engaged |
| 369 | Standard Torque (lb-ft) | 490 w/ Boost Engaged |
| 5 | Passenger Capacity | 5 |
| 60.7 Cubic Feet | Maximum Cargo Volume | 54.5 Cubic Feet |
| 10.1" + 8.6" Dual Touchscreens | Standard Multimedia System | 10.1" + 8.6" Dual Touchscreens |
| Standard | Apple CarPlay™ / Android Auto™ | Standard |
| Standard | Front & Rear Parking Sensors | Standard |
| Standard | Audi Virtual Cockpit | Standard |
| 5.6 Seconds | 0-60 MPH Time | 5.5 Seconds w/ Boost Engaged |
*Prices exclude $995 destination, taxes, title, other options and dealer changes. Dealer sets actual price.
