The Audi Q8 60 TFSI e, introduced in the facelifted 4M generation starting in April 2024, represents Audi’s commitment to plug-in hybrid technology within its luxury SUV lineup. Positioned as a high-performance, efficient variant, it combines a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine with an electric motor and a substantial battery pack. This model year represents a significant update to the Q8, incorporating revised styling, enhanced technology, and improved hybrid performance. The 60 TFSI e sits at the top of the Q8 powertrain offerings, offering a blend of power, refinement, and electric driving capability. It’s designed for buyers seeking a premium SUV experience with reduced emissions and the convenience of electric-only operation.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | Q8 |
| Generation | Q8 (4M, facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | 60 TFSI e V6 (490 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid quattro tiptronic |
| Start of production | April, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 1.2-1.6 l/100 km (196 – 147 US mpg, 235.4 – 176.6 UK mpg, 83.3 – 62.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 28-36 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h (149.13 mph) – Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.9 kg/Hp, 202.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 289.9 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 25.9 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 22 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 400 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Under the trunk |
| Recuperation output | 80 kW |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 76-84 km (47.22 – 52.2 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 27.9-30.2 kWh/100 km (44.9 – 48.6 kWh/100 mi, 75 – 69 MPGe, 3.6 – 3.3 km/kWh, 2.2 – 2.1 mi/kWh) |
| Max speed (electric) | 140 km/h (86.99 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 177 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 460 Nm (339.28 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 490 Hp |
| System torque | 700 Nm (516.29 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 340 Hp @ 5200-6400 rpm |
| Torque | 500 Nm @ 1370-5200 rpm (368.78 lb.-ft. @ 1370-5200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 2995 cm3 (182.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84.5 mm (3.33 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.2 l (7.61 US qt | 6.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 17.4 l (18.39 US qt | 15.31 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2415 kg (5324.16 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3110 kg (6856.38 lbs.) |
| Max load | 695 kg (1532.21 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 439 l (15.5 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1755 l (61.98 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 2800 kg (6172.94 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2800 kg (6172.94 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 115 kg (253.53 lbs.) |
| Length | 4992 mm (196.54 in.) |
| Width | 1995 mm (78.54 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2190 mm (86.22 in.) |
| Height | 1678-1717 mm (66.06 – 67.6 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2998 mm (118.03 in.) |
| Front track | 1679 mm (66.1 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1691 mm (66.57 in.) |
| Front overhang | 985 mm (38.78 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1009 mm (39.72 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.37 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.3 m (43.64 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 21.4° |
| Departure angle | 23.6° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 400 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 350 mm |
INTRODUCTION
The Audi Q8 60 TFSI e, launched in the updated 4M generation in April 2024, is a plug-in hybrid SUV that blends performance and efficiency. Built on the Q8 platform, it offers a luxurious and technologically advanced driving experience. This variant distinguishes itself with its powerful combination of a 3.0-liter V6 engine and an electric motor, delivering a total system output of 490 horsepower. The Q8 60 TFSI e is aimed at consumers who desire the practicality of an SUV with the benefits of electric driving, including reduced emissions and potential fuel savings. It represents Audi’s push towards electrification within its established model range.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Q8 60 TFSI e lies a 2995cc, turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine (internal designation likely within the EA837 Evo family). This engine produces 340 horsepower and 500 Nm (368.78 lb-ft) of torque. It utilizes direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to maximize power and efficiency. The engine is paired with a 177 horsepower electric motor integrated between the engine and the 8-speed tiptronic automatic transmission. This configuration allows for both electric-only driving and a combined power output of 490 horsepower and 700 Nm (516.29 lb-ft) of torque. The transmission itself is a sophisticated 8-speed automatic, known for its smooth and responsive shifts. The 25.9 kWh (usable 22 kWh) lithium-ion battery pack is located under the trunk floor, providing a WLTP-certified all-electric range of 76-84 km (47.22 – 52.2 mi). The system incorporates an 80 kW recuperation output, allowing for efficient energy recovery during deceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The Q8 60 TFSI e delivers a refined and powerful driving experience. In electric mode, it offers near-silent operation and instant torque, making it ideal for city driving. When the engine and electric motor work in tandem, the acceleration is brisk, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 4.8 seconds. The tiptronic transmission provides smooth gear changes, and the quattro all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction in all conditions. Compared to lower-powered Q8 variants, the 60 TFSI e offers significantly more performance. While the electric motor adds weight, the combined power output more than compensates for it. The gear ratios are optimized for both electric efficiency and high-speed cruising. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing a confident feel on the road.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Q8 60 TFSI e typically comes well-equipped as a premium trim level. Standard features generally include Audi’s virtual cockpit digital instrument cluster, a large touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system. Available options include adaptive air suspension, massaging seats, a head-up display, and various driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Interior trim options typically include a range of wood, aluminum, and carbon fiber accents. The exterior features unique badging to denote its plug-in hybrid status.
Chassis & Braking
The Q8 60 TFSI e utilizes an independent multi-link suspension system at both the front and rear, enhanced with air suspension for a comfortable ride and adjustable ride height. The air suspension allows drivers to tailor the ride quality to their preferences. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, with larger discs at the front (400mm) compared to the rear (350mm). The vehicle is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock braking system), electronic stability control, and various other safety systems. The quattro all-wheel-drive system actively distributes torque between the front and rear axles for optimal traction and handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Audi Q8 60 TFSI e has been generally well-received by automotive critics. It’s praised for its powerful performance, refined ride quality, and impressive electric range. Compared to other Q8 trims, the 60 TFSI e offers a compelling combination of efficiency and performance. While the price is higher than non-hybrid variants, the potential fuel savings and reduced emissions can offset the cost over time. Competitors include the BMW X5 xDrive50e and the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450e, both of which offer similar plug-in hybrid technology. The Audi generally stands out with its sophisticated interior and advanced technology features.
Legacy
The long-term reliability of the Q8 60 TFSI e powertrain remains to be fully established, as it is a relatively new model. However, Audi has a strong reputation for building reliable vehicles, and the components used in the hybrid system are generally well-proven. The combination of a turbocharged V6 engine and an electric motor is expected to offer a good balance of durability and performance. On the used car market, the Q8 60 TFSI e is likely to hold its value well due to its desirable features and increasing demand for plug-in hybrid vehicles. Proper maintenance, including regular servicing of both the engine and the hybrid system, will be crucial to ensuring its long-term reliability.
