Minor but definitely noticeable from the front, Audi’s design language changes ever so subtly and on the Q8, it is represented by a new grille bearing the first-ever 2D incarnation of the four-rings logo. It’s polarizing for sure and it does get some accentuation via a top-lit LED light bar, but overall, it lacks the dimensionality of the old chromed logo. Especially in the black pack. Around the sides, new 20in wheels give it a purposeful stance and the reprofiled rear with new bumpers and new e-Tron branding near the rear diffuser make it just about different enough to the older-gen car to announce your new purchase.
On the insides, even less has changed, so you still get the multi-layered dashboard design swathed in interesting textures and materials to make it feel plush. As is the norm with modern Audis, the Q8 e-Tron gets multiple screens to give you control over the infotainment, climate control and the Virtual Cockpit keeps improving in resolution. Pity the rear-view camera is still stuck at 480p.
Due to its highly customizable nature, the trim and equipment will differ but on our test car, the comfort seat package really emphasised the efficacy of an EV over long-distance cruising. The Q8 e-Tron effortlessly munches miles and its adaptive air suspension perfectly adjusts itself to the surface quality. Overall there is more than 70mm of play between its highest and lowest setting, truly making it capable of soft-roading or a blast down the highway.