Models · Audi
Audi SQ8 and RS Q8 buying guide
The SQ8 arrived in 2019 with a V8 diesel and switched to a 4.0 twin-turbo V8 petrol in 2020, while the RS Q8 uses a more powerful 4.0 V8. Both are fast, heavy SUVs on the Q8 body. Most reported faults are electrical, and the main mechanical wear is in the front suspension.
The versions
- SQ8 TDI (from 2019): biturbo V8 diesel, 435PS
- SQ8 TFSI (from 2020): 4.0 twin-turbo V8 petrol, 507PS, shared with the Porsche Cayenne
- RS Q8: 4.0 twin-turbo V8 petrol, 600PS, with carbon ceramic brakes as standard
- SQ8: ZF 8-speed Tiptronic automatic, quattro with a Torsen centre differential, adaptive air suspension and rear-wheel steering as standard
- Vorsprung adds an electromechanical active anti-roll system and a quattro sport rear differential
What to check on a SQ8 or RS Q8
3 model-specific things to look at when you view one. They're a starting point, not the full inspection.
Mild-hybrid starter-generator and start-stop
What to look for: With the engine running, watch the dashboard for electrical or drive system warnings. Let the start-stop system cut in and out a few times in slow traffic, and feel for jerky or slow restarts. Ask whether the starter-generator or 48V battery has been replaced.
Why it matters: The 48V belt starter-generator has caused electrical warnings and drive system errors. Some cars were fixed with a software update and others had a new generator or battery under warranty, though not every fix held. Owners also report jerky start-stop, so a smooth system and a record of any work done are what you want.
Front suspension bushes
What to look for: Drive slowly over speed humps and broken road with the window down, and listen for knocks, creaks or clonks from the front. Notice whether the steering feels vague.
Why it matters: Front suspension bushes can wear quickly on these cars because of their weight and power, and other suspension parts may become noisy sooner than expected. New parts in the invoices are a sign of a car that's been looked after.
Door locks, windows and central locking
What to look for: Open every door from inside and outside, lock and unlock with the key several times, and check each window stays where you leave it. Open and close the powered boot cover.
Why it matters: Door locks can fail to release from inside, windows can open on their own, and the central locking and alarm may misbehave. The powered boot cover can jam, and moisture can get into the headlights, so look at those too.
Also in the full guide
- The MMI system
- Recall work
- Engine running
- The cold start, test drive and paperwork checks for the exact version you're viewing
The full guide to the SQ8 or RS Q8
The CrankSight guide walks you round the car on your phone at the viewing, with every check for the exact version you're looking at: what to look for, where to find it, and what anything you find is likely to cost. As you go it builds an assessment of that car, and if you view more than one, it lines them up side by side.
£29 for the model, used on as many cars as you like, delivered within 72 hours or your money back.
General points for the model, last checked October 2026. Every car is different, so treat this as a guide to what to look at, not a verdict on any car. CrankSight is independent and has no connection with Audi.