The clock is ticking for Australian buyers looking to secure Audi’s flagship electric SUV, with new Q8 e-tron vehicles becoming increasingly scarce following the closure of the model’s Belgian production facility earlier this year.
Local dealerships are now working with dwindling inventory as the automaker transitions away from the pioneering model that first launched in Australia as the e-tron in 2020, before receiving a substantial update and rebranding to Q8 e-tron in 2023.
End of an Era for Audi’s First Dedicated Electric SUV
Audi Australia has confirmed to automotive journalists that new Q8 e-tron vehicles are now limited to remaining stock already in the country or en route from Europe, following the January shutdown of production at the company’s Brussels plant.
The factory closure came after Audi’s parent company Volkswagen Group announced significant restructuring plans for the luxury brand late last year, which included the controversial decision to shutter the dedicated Q8 e-tron production facility.
“We still have a limited selection of new Q8 e-tron models available for immediate delivery, though specific configurations are becoming harder to secure,” an Audi Australia spokesperson told reporters. “Customers interested in the Q8 e-tron should contact their local dealership promptly to check current availability.”
Historic Brussels Facility Transitions to New Role
The Brussels manufacturing plant made history as the first carbon-neutral factory in the Volkswagen Group when it began producing the original e-tron in 2018. The facility underwent a comprehensive transformation from traditional vehicle manufacturing to electric vehicle production, showcasing Audi’s early commitment to electromobility.
In its new configuration, the Brussels site will reportedly focus on producing electric drive components rather than complete vehicles, supporting Volkswagen Group’s broader electrification strategy.
Industry analysts have noted that the Q8 e-tron’s production run exceeded 160,000 units globally across both its original e-tron and updated Q8 e-tron designations, making it one of the pioneering success stories in the premium electric SUV segment.
Current Australian Market Situation
While exact inventory numbers remain undisclosed, market intelligence suggests fewer than 200 new Q8 e-tron vehicles remain available nationwide, with the more popular Sportback body style particularly limited.
The model line currently offers Australian buyers three distinct variants:
- Q8 50 e-tron – The entry-level option with 250kW/664Nm and 453km range
- Q8 55 e-tron – The mid-tier variant delivering 300kW/664Nm and 562km range
- SQ8 e-tron – The performance flagship producing 370kW/973Nm and 494km range
Each variant is available in both traditional SUV and sleeker Sportback body styles, though dealer sources indicate the SQ8 e-tron in either configuration is essentially sold out across the country.
The Q8 e-tron’s local pricing structure ranges from $127,900 before on-road costs for the base 50 e-tron, extending to $170,900 for the range-topping SQ8 e-tron Sportback.
Special Edition Models Extremely Limited
Adding to the time-sensitive nature of the situation, several dealers have confirmed that the recently introduced Q8 e-tron edition S line and SQ8 e-tron edition S line special editions, which arrived only months ago, are now among the scarcest configurations.
These special edition variants feature unique styling elements, enhanced equipment levels, and exclusive interior treatments that commanded a premium of approximately $10,000 over their standard counterparts.
“We received just three units of the SQ8 e-tron edition S line, and they were all pre-sold before they even arrived in the showroom,” one metropolitan Audi dealer revealed. “The demand for these final special editions has significantly outpaced supply.”
The Future of Audi’s Electric SUV Lineup
While the Q8 e-tron’s production has concluded, this doesn’t signal Audi’s retreat from the electric SUV market. The company continues to offer the smaller Q4 e-tron in global markets, though this model remains unavailable in Australia despite earlier plans for local introduction.
Q6 e-tron Arrives as Technological Successor
The most significant development for Audi’s electric portfolio is the upcoming Q6 e-tron, which is scheduled to arrive in Australia by early 2025. This all-new model will utilize the Volkswagen Group’s advanced Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, co-developed with Porsche.
Industry sources suggest the Q6 e-tron will offer substantial technological advantages over the outgoing Q8 e-tron, including:
- 800-volt electrical architecture enabling faster charging
- Greater range efficiency from next-generation battery technology
- Significantly enhanced computing power for improved infotainment and driver assistance
- More advanced manufacturing techniques resulting in lighter overall weight
“The Q6 e-tron represents the next evolution in our e-mobility journey,” the Audi spokesperson explained. “While the Q8 e-tron opened the chapter on premium electric SUVs for Audi, the Q6 e-tron will demonstrate just how rapidly the technology has matured.”
Market Impact and Competitor Analysis
The Q8 e-tron’s departure creates an interesting dynamic in Australia’s premium electric SUV segment, particularly as several key competitors have recently introduced updated models.
BMW’s iX continues to perform strongly in the sales charts, while Mercedes-EQ has established its EQE SUV and larger EQS SUV in the market. Meanwhile, Tesla’s Model X has returned to Australia after a prolonged absence, though at significantly higher price points than when it was last available.
Price Positioning in the Current Market
The following table provides a comparative overview of the premium electric SUV landscape in Australia:
| Model | Starting Price (before on-roads) | Power Output | WLTP Range | Fast Charging Capability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audi Q8 50 e-tron | $127,900 | 250kW | 453km | Up to 150kW |
| Audi Q8 55 e-tron | $147,900 | 300kW | 562km | Up to 170kW |
| Audi SQ8 e-tron | $165,900 | 370kW | 494km | Up to 170kW |
| BMW iX xDrive40 | $141,900 | 240kW | 425km | Up to 150kW |
| BMW iX xDrive50 | $169,900 | 385kW | 630km | Up to 200kW |
| Mercedes-EQ EQE SUV 350 | $134,900 | 215kW | 550km | Up to 170kW |
| Mercedes-EQ EQS SUV 450 | $194,900 | 265kW | 610km | Up to 200kW |
| Tesla Model X | $189,900 | 504kW | 560km | Up to 250kW |
| Jaguar I-PACE HSE | $153,694 | 294kW | 470km | Up to 100kW |
Industry analysts note that despite its aging architecture, the Q8 e-tron maintained competitive specifications against newer rivals, particularly in terms of interior quality and overall driving refinement.
Should You Still Consider Purchasing a Q8 e-tron?
With production ceased and inventory diminishing, potential buyers face the question of whether securing one of the remaining Q8 e-tron models is a wise decision.
Advantages of the Current Model
The Q8 e-tron offers several compelling arguments in its favor:
- Established model with proven reliability record
- Extensive real-world ownership data available
- Potential for attractive pricing as dealers clear final inventory
- Comprehensive dealer familiarity with service and maintenance requirements
- Immediate availability versus waiting for newer models
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
However, there are legitimate reasons for pause:
- Older 400-volt electrical architecture limits charging speeds compared to newer EVs
- Higher weight impacts efficiency and range compared to more recent designs
- Infotainment technology now a generation behind Audi’s latest offerings
- Potential for accelerated depreciation as newer technology enters the market
- Limited configuration options as inventory depletes
Industry experts suggest that buyers who prioritize immediate availability, proven reliability, and potential value opportunities may still find the Q8 e-tron appealing, while those focused on cutting-edge technology might be better served waiting for the Q6 e-tron.
The Broader Context of Audi’s Transformation
The end of Q8 e-tron production reflects wider changes within Audi and the Volkswagen Group as they navigate challenging global market conditions and accelerating industry transformation.
Audi’s parent company announced in late 2023 that it would implement significant cost-cutting measures and restructuring plans across its brands, with a particular focus on optimizing manufacturing footprints and improving financial performance.
The Brussels plant closure was among the first concrete actions in this broader strategy, though company representatives have emphasized that the facility’s transition to component production preserves many manufacturing jobs.
Strategic Shift to PPE Platform
A key element of Audi’s revised strategy involves consolidating its electric vehicle offerings around the more advanced PPE platform, which will underpin not only the Q6 e-tron but also the upcoming A6 e-tron and potentially several other models.
This platform-sharing approach aligns with industry trends toward greater standardization of electric vehicle architectures to improve economies of scale, reduce development costs, and accelerate time-to-market for new models.
Looking Ahead: Audi’s Electric Roadmap
Despite the Q8 e-tron’s production conclusion, Audi maintains its commitment to an ambitious electrification strategy. The company has previously announced plans to introduce only electric vehicles to its global lineup from 2026 onward, with internal combustion engine production scheduled to conclude entirely by 2033.
For the Australian market specifically, Audi has confirmed that alongside the Q6 e-tron, several additional electric models will arrive through 2025 and 2026, including the A6 e-tron sedan and Avant (wagon), plus potentially the smaller Q4 e-tron that had previously been delayed.
Industry analysts suggest that a direct replacement for the Q8 e-tron will eventually emerge, likely utilizing the forthcoming SSP (Scalable Systems Platform) that Volkswagen Group is developing as its ultimate unified electric architecture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Audi discontinuing the Q8 e-tron completely?
Yes, production of the Q8 e-tron has ended at Audi’s Brussels facility, with no immediate direct replacement planned. However, Audi continues to expand its electric vehicle lineup with new models like the Q6 e-tron.
Can I still buy a new Q8 e-tron in Australia?
Yes, but availability is limited to remaining dealer stock and vehicles already in transit from Europe. Specific configurations are increasingly difficult to secure.
Will Audi continue to support the Q8 e-tron with parts and service?
Absolutely. Audi has confirmed full ongoing service support, parts availability, and warranty coverage for all Q8 e-tron vehicles in accordance with their original sales terms.
Is the Q6 e-tron a direct replacement for the Q8 e-tron?
No, the Q6 e-tron will be slightly smaller than the Q8 e-tron and utilizes entirely different architecture. However, it will become Audi’s flagship electric SUV when it arrives in Australia.
Should I wait for the Q6 e-tron instead of buying a Q8 e-tron now?
This depends on your priorities. The Q6 e-tron will offer more advanced technology and likely better efficiency, but it won’t be available until 2025 and pricing remains unannounced. The Q8 e-tron offers immediate availability and potential value opportunities.
Will the Q8 e-tron name continue in Audi’s lineup?
Audi hasn’t confirmed future naming plans, but industry analysts believe the Q8 designation will continue, potentially for a future electric flagship SUV built on more advanced architecture.