SavageGeese gives the 2025 Audi SQ8 a mixed 50/100 score, recognizing it as a special performance vehicle held back by significant compromises. The SQ8 excels with its twin-turbo V8 producing over 500 horsepower, MLB Evo platform capable of track duty, and ride refinement that justifies its $98k+ starting price—making it a better value than the Porsche Cayenne despite being marginally worse. However, the vehicle stumbles in cabin technology with dated dual screens and an underwhelming $5,000 Bang & Olufsen audio system, plus it suffers from abysmal 13.8 MPG fuel economy and a brutal depreciation curve (worth only $40k in three years). This is a luxury indulgence for buyers with disposable income who prioritize driving dynamics and exclusivity over practicality and long-term value.

TheStraightPipes gave the 2024 Audi SQ8 E-tron a solidly positive 71/100 OctaneScore, praising it as "one of the most perfect electric cars because it's just a normal car that happens to be electric." The vehicle excels in performance (100/100) with 496 hp, 718 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.5-second 0-60 time, along with standout design (89/100) featuring aggressive headlights and an elegant full-width light bar, plus strong livability (75/100) with adaptive air suspension and responsive steering. However, economy scores poorly at 40/100 due to concerning charging infrastructure reliability issues and the cabin tech (56/100) suffers from a confusing shifter design that nearly caused collisions. The SQ8 E-tron is ideal for buyers with reliable home charging who want premium EV performance without sacrificing traditional SUV practicality.