| Transmission | Automatic (A2) |
| Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Vehicle Class | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD |
| Trim | EV |
| Start-Stop | No |
| EPA Vehicle ID | 47443 |
The 2024 Audi SQ8 Sportback e-tron with 20-inch wheels achieves 73 MPG combined, making it a leader in the performance EV SUV segment for efficiency. This is about achieving high performance with electric motors and a sleek, aerodynamic design. Of course, buyers of this SQ8 Sportback e-tron version also want aggressive styling, fast acceleration, and advanced technology. The impressive MPG figure offers assurance that performance and efficiency can coexist.
City and highway performance
The SQ8 Sportback e-tron’s EPA ratings show its consistency across various driving conditions. The city MPG of 72 is close to the highway figure of 75 MPG. This shows the effectiveness of its regenerative braking system in cities and its optimized aerodynamics for highway cruising. Almost identical city and highway MPGs are due to the electric powertrain’s efficiency, needing little energy across driving styles, whether in stop-and-go traffic or on the highway. This balanced performance makes it good for daily commutes and long trips, with predictable energy use wherever you drive.
Annual Fuel Cost
The EPA estimates that owners of the 2024 Audi SQ8 Sportback e-tron (20-inch wheels) will have an annual fuel cost of $1,050. This is based on driving 15,000 miles yearly, using typical city and highway mileage, and the national average electricity cost. This low cost lowers the total cost of ownership compared to gasoline performance SUVs, and even many hybrid cars. The savings are good for those wanting less gas and financial benefits.
Real-World Expectations
EPA estimates provide a standard, but real-world MPG can change based on factors. Driving style is important: fast acceleration and braking reduce range. Also, colder weather can reduce battery efficiency, lowering MPG. Terrain affects efficiency too, as hilly roads consume more energy. However, the SQ8 Sportback e-tron’s energy management system and driver-selectable modes help reduce these differences, letting drivers tailor performance for efficiency or power.
How It Compares
The SQ8 Sportback e-tron’s 73 MPG is good among its performance SUV rivals. The BMW iX M60 offers similar performance and luxury, with a combined rating of 77 MPGe, a bit higher, but not a key factor. The Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV, also an electric SUV, has a combined rating of 76 MPGe. These differences matter to buyers focused on their vehicle’s footprint and running costs. In the luxury segment, even small MPG advantages support a brand’s focus on performance and sustainability, especially with all Audi fuel economy data. Comparing the SQ8 Sportback e-tron to others, like evaluating SQ8 MPG across all years, shows a commitment to improving efficiency with great driving.
Tips to Maximize Efficiency
Use the Audi Drive Select system to prioritize efficiency. The “Efficiency” mode can change throttle response, energy recuperation, and climate control to save energy without losing all performance. Start using this setting during your commute to increase range per charge.
Use regenerative braking. The SQ8 Sportback e-tron’s regenerative braking captures energy when slowing down and converts it to electricity to recharge the battery. Predict traffic and coast when you can, letting the regenerative braking slow the car gently and extend your range.
Keep tires inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the motor work harder. Check tire pressure and keep it at the recommended levels on the doorjamb sticker for best efficiency and handling.
Reduce aerodynamic drag. Remove items from the roof rack or cargo carrier, as these create wind resistance and reduce efficiency. Small changes in aerodynamics can make a difference, especially when driving faster.