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Audi Q8 vs Volvo XC90 – Which model is better for everyday use?

Two cars, one duel: Audi Q8 meets Volvo XC90.
Which one wins in performance, efficiency and value for money? Find out now!

Q8 @ audi-mediacenter.com

The SUV Showdown: Audi Q8 vs. Volvo XC90

The luxury SUV segment is fiercely competitive, with each brand vying to offer the best in performance, comfort, and technology. In this article, we take an in-depth look at two standout models: the Audi Q8 and the Volvo XC90. Both vehicles offer an array of features and possess unique attributes that cater to discerning buyers. This comparison will explore their technical specifications, innovations, and overall appeal.

XC90 @ media.volvocars.com

Power and Performance: Engine Options Galore

The Audi Q8 showcases a diverse lineup of engines, including diesel MHEV, petrol variants, and a plugin hybrid option. Engine outputs vary significantly, from 231 hp to a staggering 640 hp, providing ample choices for both efficiency seekers and performance enthusiasts. The Q8’s engines feature smooth automatic gearboxes and are coupled with an all-wheel-drive system, ensuring impressive handling in various conditions.

In contrast, the Volvo XC90 offers powerful options as well, but with fewer variants: the petrol MHEV and a plugin hybrid that can generate up to 455 hp. Although its maximum power may not match the Q8, the XC90 compensates with its efficient torque distribution, boasting up to 709 Nm. Both models demonstrate remarkable acceleration, with the Q8 reaching 0-100 km/h in as little as 3.6 seconds versus the XC90’s best time of 5.4 seconds.

Q8 @ audi-mediacenter.com

Efficiency Meets Luxury: Fuel Consumption and Emissions

When it comes to fuel efficiency, the Audi Q8 offers a range of consumption levels depending on the configuration. The diesel options see figures around 8.1 L/100 km, while hybrid variants exhibit impressive consumption rates of 1.3 L/100 km. The Q8's electric range of 82 km (with a battery capacity of 22 kWh) adds to its efficiency profile, making it a compelling option for eco-conscious drivers.

The Volvo XC90, however, outshines the Q8 in hybrid efficiency, with a consumption rate of just 1.2 L/100 km. Its smaller battery capacity of 14.7 kWh gives it an electric range of 71 km, sufficient for short commutes and city driving. With CO2 emissions as low as 30 g/km, the XC90 meets stringent regulations, appealing to buyers focused on sustainability.

XC90 @ media.volvocars.com

Interior Craftsmanship and Comfort: A Seating Affair

Both the Audi Q8 and Volvo XC90 come equipped with opulent interiors that prioritize comfort and usability. The Q8 can comfortably seat five passengers and boasts a trunk capacity of 605 liters, making it suitable for families and travelers. The cabin is adorned with high-quality materials and cutting-edge technology, including Audi's MMI infotainment system, ensuring connectivity and convenience.

The XC90 goes a step further by offering seating for seven, ideal for larger families. Despite its smaller trunk capacity of 262 liters with all seats up, it maintains a premium feel with Scandinavian design elements and advanced safety features. Volvo's commitment to safety makes the XC90 an attractive choice for those prioritizing family security.

Q8 @ audi-mediacenter.com

Design Aesthetics: A Tale of Two Styles

Design is subjective, but both the Audi Q8 and Volvo XC90 present striking visual statements. The Q8 is characterized by its bold and aggressive stance, highlighted by its octagonal grille and LED lighting signature. This SUV embodies Audi’s sporty lineage while projecting a strong presence on the road.

On the other hand, the XC90 showcases a more understated elegance, with clean lines and a sophisticated silhouette. Its taller build and distinctive vertical taillights convey a sense of robustness synonymous with Volvo. This design philosophy aligns well with the brand's focus on safety and comfort.

XC90 @ media.volvocars.com

Technological Advancements: Infotainment and Driver Assist

Both vehicles push boundaries in adopting technology as integral to the driving experience. The Audi Q8 features a dual-screen layout that seamlessly integrates controls and infotainment systems, making it intuitive yet sophisticated. Advanced driver-assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, enhance driving pleasure and safety.

The Volvo XC90 is similarly equipped, boasting a user-friendly touchscreen interface that controls most vehicle functions. Its comprehensive safety suite includes Pilot Assist, which provides semi-autonomous driving capabilities. Furthermore, Volvo's emphasis on clean air makes the XC90 an eco-conscious choice through its advanced air filtration system.

Q8 @ audi-mediacenter.com

Conclusion: Audi Q8 vs. Volvo XC90—Which One Reigns Supreme?

Choosing between the Audi Q8 and the Volvo XC90 ultimately depends on personal preferences and needs. The Q8 excels in performance and luxury, providing a broad engine range and exhilarating acceleration. Conversely, the XC90 stands out with its spacious interior, impressive efficiency, and safety-oriented features.

Both SUVs cater to different aspects of luxury and performance, ensuring buyers can find the right model that suits their lifestyle. Whether you prioritize performance or family comfort, the Audi Q8 and Volvo XC90 are excellent choices that will undoubtedly deliver satisfaction on every journey.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

XC90 @ media.volvocars.com

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Volvo XC90 has a barely noticeable advantage in terms of price – it starts at 69800 £, while the Audi Q8 costs 75800 £. That’s a price difference of around 6009 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Audi Q8 manages with 1.30 L and is therefore decisively more efficient than the Volvo XC90 with 3.50 L. The difference is about 2.20 L per 100 km.

As for range, the Audi Q8 performs a bit better – achieving up to 83 km, about 12 km more than the Volvo XC90.

Q8 @ audi-mediacenter.com

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Audi Q8 has a clearly perceptible edge – offering 640 HP compared to 455 HP. That’s roughly 185 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Audi Q8 is decisively quicker – completing the sprint in 3.60 s, while the Volvo XC90 takes 5.40 s. That’s about 1.80 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Audi Q8 performs evident better – reaching 250 km/h, while the Volvo XC90 tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 70 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Audi Q8 pulls a bit stronger with 850 Nm compared to 709 Nm. That’s about 141 Nm difference.

XC90 @ media.volvocars.com

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Seats: Volvo XC90 offers distinct more seating capacity – 7 vs 5.

In curb weight, Volvo XC90 is slight lighter – 2080 kg compared to 2175 kg. The difference is around 95 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Audi Q8 offers decisively more room – 605 L compared to 302 L. That’s a difference of about 303 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Volvo XC90 performs minimal better – up to 1856 L, which is about 101 L more than the Audi Q8.

When it comes to payload, Volvo XC90 slight takes the win – 710 kg compared to 665 kg. That’s a difference of about 45 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Audi Q8 proves to be is largely superior and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Audi Q8 is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £75,800
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Audi Q8

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel MHEV, Petrol
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 231 - 640 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 1.3 - 13.1 L
  • Electric Range : 82 - 83 km

Audi Q8

The Audi Q8 combines luxurious design with advanced technology, offering a sophisticated driving experience. Its sleek exterior is complemented by a spacious and elegantly crafted interior, featuring high-quality materials and cutting-edge infotainment options. The Q8 handles with agility and precision, making it equally suited for city driving and long-distance journeys.

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Volvo XC90

5 (1)
rate

The Volvo XC90 stands out with its elegant Scandinavian design, seamlessly blending luxury with versatility. Inside, it offers a spacious and meticulously crafted interior, showcasing high-quality materials and advanced technology. The vehicle provides a comfortable and smooth driving experience, making it a popular choice for families and long journeys.

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Audi Q8
Volvo XC90
Q8
XC90

Costs and Consumption

Price
75800 - 135600 £
Price
69800 - 84600 £
Consumption L/100km
1.3 - 13.1 L
Consumption L/100km
3.5 - 8.5 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
82 - 83 km
Electric Range
71 km
Battery Capacity
22 kWh
Battery Capacity
14.70 kWh
co2
30 - 297 g/km
co2
79 - 191 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
75 - 85 L
Fuel tank capacity
71 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
7
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
2175 - 2490 kg
Curb weight
2080 - 2297 kg
Trunk capacity
439 - 605 L
Trunk capacity
262 - 302 L
Length
4992 - 5022 mm
Length
4953 mm
Width
1995 - 2007 mm
Width
1923 mm
Height
1697 - 1708 mm
Height
1771 mm
Max trunk capacity
1755 L
Max trunk capacity
1816 - 1856 L
Payload
620 - 665 kg
Payload
653 - 710 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel MHEV, Petrol
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
231 - 640 HP
Power HP
250 - 455 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.6 - 7.1 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.4 - 7.7 s
Max Speed
226 - 250 km/h
Max Speed
180 km/h
Torque
500 - 850 Nm
Torque
360 - 709 Nm
Number of Cylinders
6 - 8
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
170 - 471 kW
Power kW
184 - 335 kW
Engine capacity
2967 - 3996 cm3
Engine capacity
1969 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
G, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
G, B
Brand
Audi
Brand
Volvo
What drive types are available for the Audi Q8?

Available configurations include All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.