By Prashirwin Naidu
People often say, “You have such a cool job.” I smile, knowing that beyond the glitz and glamour, it’s not as effortless as it seems. Motoring journalism is exciting, but most of the time, you’re hustling to make a name for yourself, especially as a rookie. It’s even tougher when you have no one to guide you. Uncle Morgan Naidu was my guiding light and a true legend was on my mind as the plane touched down in Cape Town for the Audi Q7 and Q8 launch. Beyond my absolute love for cars, he was the reason I entered this industry. But before I get too sentimental, there was a launch to attend.
First Drive:
Audi had my heart racing as I took the wheel of the newly revised Audi Q8 55 TFSI
Quattro Tiptronic Black Edition, priced at R2 058 400 – with a whopping R233 000 worth of extras. But my goodness, it looked stunning in Chilli Red Metallic, paired with Audi Sport five-spoke wheels wrapped in thick rubber. With its clean silhouette and fastback coupe styling — mi amor — it meant business. The updates gave this SUV a bolder presence, while the frameless doors added a sleek touch. And that new honeycomb Single frame grille? Nice one, Audi.
Inside, the cabin exuded luxury with carbon-finish inlays, artificial leather on the
dashboard and plush leather seats. Sleek and modern, but if I’m being honest, Audi
could use an upgrade in the tech department. The infotainment system did the job, and the virtual cockpit remained a highlight, but with Chinese rivals raising the bar, Audi needs to step up. For R2 million, I expect the crème de la crème.
My drive from Cape Town International to Waterkloof Wine Estate was short but sweet and enough to appreciate the Q8’s refinement and quality. It carried its weight gracefully. At times, I wished for a bit more punch, but let’s be honest — you won’t always be flooring it. This is a cruiser, powered by a 3.0L V6 turbo-petrol engine, the same one in the Audi Q7 55 TFSI Quattro which gives you enough power. Add Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive and adaptive air suspension, and you’ve got a smooth, capable everyday companion.
Now, onto the Q7. Mechanically, it’s almost identical to the Q8 — same engine, same outputs. Both also come with a 3.0L V6 turbo-diesel option, but time constraints meant we didn’t get to experience its torquey punch. Maybe later this year. The Q7 felt more practical while sharing many similarities with the Q8. It’s even slightly quicker, doing 0-100 km/h in 5.6 seconds compared to the Q8’s 5.9 seconds.
Both SUVs are luxurious and tech-packed but serve different needs. The Q7 is ideal for families, offering space and versatility, while the Q8 is sportier and more dynamic. If practicality is key, choose the Q7; if bold styling and a more engaging drive matter, the Q8 is the one to have. Midway through, my colleague Sean Claase and I switched to the SQ7, as the SQ8 was taken. No complaints, though, it’s a powerful and refined machine. Its 4.0L twin-turbo V8 was exhilarating, with a soundtrack that sent shivers down my spine. We pushed it through the Franschhoek mountain passes, enjoying its sharp handling and deep, growling exhaust note. It’s undeniably thirsty, but it delivers a 373kW and 770Nm, launching from 0-100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds. Not bad at all.
Performance:
But our hunger for performance wasn’t satisfied just yet. That evening, after arriving at La Franschhoek Hotel & Spa, we took the mighty Audi RS Q8 for a quick spin. It shares its MLB platform and several components with the Lamborghini Urus. While the Urus is the more aggressive sibling with a sharper drive, the RS Q8 delivers similar performance in a more refined and understated package.
The RS Q8’s 4.0L twin-turbo V8 delivers an impressive 471kW and 850Nm. It’s
incredibly fast, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds and reaching a top
speed of 305 km/h. This is no small feat. Gripping the suede/Alcantara steering wheel, launch control sent me soaring. Adrenaline rushed through my veins as the fire-breathing V8 roared, its raw torque simply mental. The RS Q8 handled its weight with confidence, leaning towards the firmer side, as any performance SUV should. I loved it, but be prepared for the fuel consumption that comes with a V8. As a daily driver? Probably not the most sensible choice. I’d stick with the simpler Q7.
Verdict:
In reality, Audi, like many other premium brands, has seen a steady decline in sales.
The rise of more affordable Chinese competitors has shifted the market, with even
flagship models like the Q7 and Q8 feeling the impact. Despite these challenges, Audi stays committed to quality and continues to adapt to the changing times.
If I had to choose, I’d go for the SQ7. It strikes the perfect balance of speed, comfort, and everyday usability without going over the top like the RS Q8. But realistically, the Q7 is probably more my style.
Pricing and Pick:
• Q7 55 TFSI quattro Tiptronic Platinum Edition: R1 958 000
• Q8 55 TFSI quattro Tiptronic Black Edition: R2 058 400
• SQ7 TFSI quattro Tiptronic: R2 540 500
• SQ8 TFSI quattro Tiptronic Black Edition: R2 675 500
• RS Q8 Performance quattro Tiptronic: R3 266 100
