Audi Q8

One of the biggest differences between the Q7 and the 2019 Audi Q8 is the engine. The Q7 still uses Audi’s older 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engine, and the Q8 has a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 under its hood. We tested this new engine in our A8 sedan; it's very strong and ready to deliver power at a moment's notice. We also like how the eight-speed automatic transmission delivers smooth, quick shifts.

The Q8 comes standard with 20-inch wheels, but the Prestige trim we drove had optional 22-inch wheels with all-season tires and air suspension. Given how larger wheels sometimes make for a less comfortable ride, we were surprised and impressed at how well the 2019 Audi Q8 rode with this setup. The ride is taut—neither stiff nor bouncy—but the Audi remained composed, soaking up road imperfections with aplomb. Everyone at Consumer Reports who drove the Q8 remarked how the steering has satisfying weight and feedback.

This is the third Audi that we've driven with the automaker's new infotainment system, and we continue to be pleased with the two-screen interface. We particularly like the dedicated screen for the climate system. Plus, the haptic feedback—where drivers pressing a button on the screen get a soft pulse on their fingertip to mimic the tactile feel of a physical button—gives drivers more certainty when they make a selection.

The seats have excellent support and a variety of adjustments, making them perfect for short trips or all-day drives. The square-shaped, nicely finished trunk has plenty of room. Folding down the second-row seats expands the cargo area for longer items.

We've noticed that newer Audi models have limited cabin storage, and the Q8 is no different. There's just a shallow bin underneath the center armrest, which houses a wireless charging pad and two USB ports. That leaves little room for anything else once a mobile phone is plugged in and stored there. There is also a midsized glove box and pockets in the doors, along with two cup holders that reside between the seats.

The stalk for the adaptive cruise control is on the lower left, where it felt hidden behind the steering wheel for some drivers. This makes it a challenge to see it at a glance and activate it.

We all find it odd that the rear hatch can be opened using a button on the key fob, but it can't be closed by pressing that same button. This seems behind the times, particularly for a luxury vehicle.

Finally, it's great that the standard safety equipment includes forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking, but more safety features should be standard, given the SUV’s $67,400 base price.

For example, our Prestige trim had standard blind spot warning, but this feature costs extra on the lowest-priced trim, ironically called Premium. Lane departure warning isn’t available on the Premium, and it’s part of a costly option package on the midlevel Premium Plus trim.

Beware: It can be challenging to determine exactly which features are in each package, so buyers should do their homework.