The premium electric SUV market has become increasingly competitive. Last year, the Audi e-tron was the only option, but with Audi's introduction of the new Q8 e-tron, there's now a plethora of choices. To better assess this newcomer, we will compare it against its key competitors: the BMW iX and the Polestar 3.
While these vehicles are classified as full-size SUVs in Europe, they fall into the mid-size category in the American market. Complicating the comparison is that only the BMW iX is currently on sale. To ensure a fair assessment, we utilized our comparison tool to select three models with closely matched specifications: the Audi Q8 55 e-tron, BMW iX xDrive50, and Polestar 3 LR.
Performance
Despite being the newest of the trio, the Audi is the slowest, recording a 0 to 100 km/h time of 5.6 seconds.While the Audi's performance is commendable for a vehicle of its size, it falls behind BMW, which delivers outstanding efficiency and handling, even with its larger dimensions. The BMW iX xDrive50 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds, underscoring its superior performance.
| Audi Q8 55 e-tron | BMW iX xDrive50 | Polestar 3 LR | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power | 408 HP (300 kW) AWD | 523 HP (385 kW) AWD | 489 HP (360 kW) AWD |
| Torque | 664 Nm (490 lb-ft) | 765 Nm (564 lb-ft) | 840 Nm (620 lb-ft) |
| 0 to 100 km/h | 5.6 seconds | 4.6 seconds | 5 seconds |
| Top speed | 200 km/h (124 mph) | 200 km/h (124 mph) | 210 km/h (130 mph) |
Battery and Range
All three SUVs utilize a 400V battery architecture, fitted with liquid cooling systems. Polestar is the only one using a ternary battery pack (NMC), which is slightly larger than the others. Nonetheless, all three models offer over 100 kWh of capacity, making them suitable for both daily commutes and long-distance journeys. The WLTP range is competitive across the board, with BMW leading slightly in efficiency. Polestar, however, offers the fastest charging rate if you can access a 250 kW DC charger, and it additionally provides vehicle-to-grid capabilities.
| Audi Q8 55 e-tron | BMW iX xDrive50 | Polestar 3 LR | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 106 kWh usable (total 114 kWh) | 105.2 kWh usable (total 111.5 kWh) | 107 kWh usable (total 111 kWh) |
| Type | Li-ion 400V liquid cooled | Li-ion 400V liquid cooled | Li-NMC 400V liquid cooled |
| Range WLTP | 582 km | 611 km | 610 km |
| AC charging | Type 2 11 kW and 22 kW | Type 2 11 kW | Type 2 11 kW |
| DC charging | CCS max 170 kW | CCS max 200 kW | CCS max 250 kW |
| DC Charging 10 to 80% SoC | 31 minutes | 35 minutes | 30 minutes |
| Drag coefficient | 0.26 | 0.25 | 0.296 |
Size does matter
In the realm of electric vehicles, size and weight significantly influence performance. All three SUVs measure nearly 5 meters in length, with the BMW being the largest and Polestar the smallest. Interestingly, the Audi Q8 surprises by providing the most luggage space, despite being built on a conventional chassis. In contrast, BMW and Polestar, designed as electric vehicles, should have capitalized on the opportunity for increased cargo space. Audi’s clever design results in the largest trunk and trunk space.
| Audi Q8 55 e-tron | BMW iX xDrive50 | Polestar 3 LR | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions mm | 4,915 x 1,937 x 1,633 | 4,953 x 1,967 x 1,695 | 4,900 x 1,968 x 1,614 |
| Dimensions imperial | 193.5 x 76.3 x 64.3 inches | 195.0 x 77.4 x 66.7 inches | 192.9 x 77.5 x 63.5 inches |
| Wheelbase | 2,928 mm (115.3 in) | 3,000 mm (118.1 in) | 2,985 mm (117.5 in) |
| Ground clearance | 172 mm (6.8 inches) | 203 mm (8 inches) | 201 mm (7.9 inches) |
| Unladen weight | 2,595 kg | 2,585 kg | 2,584 kg |
| Trunk | 569 l (seats down 1,637 l) | 500 l (seats down 1,750 l) | 484 l (seats down 1,411 l) |
| Frunk | 62 l | No | 32 l |
Design
When it comes to aesthetics, Audi adopts a more conservative design, while Polestar strikes a balance between conservative and futuristic. Conversely, BMW boldly asserts its own unique style. If making a statement is a priority, BMW is the clear choice; Audi offers a more understated look, while Polestar is likely to attract attention.
Safety and Comfort
In this luxury segment, consumers expect advanced safety and comfort features. Though all three vehicles perform well in this regard, Polestar includes the most standard equipment. Notably, BMW requires additional payment for air suspension, and Audi's interior screens are comparatively smaller. However, Polestar's driver display may take some acclimatization due to its slim design, and it offers nine airbags as standard.
| Audi Q8 55 e-tron | BMW iX xDrive50 | Polestar 3 LR | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Center display | 10.1" Full HD | 14.9" | 14.5" |
| Instrument cluster | 10.25" | 12.3" | 9" |
| Head-up display | 8.6" augmented reality | augmented reality | projector type |
| Suspension | Air-spring + adjustable shocks | hydraulic damping, air suspension optional | adaptive air-suspension + active dampers |
| Wheels | R19, R20, R21, R22 | R20, R21, R22 | R21, R22 |
| Heatpump | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Airbags | side, front + rear + head | side, front + rear + head | side + front + rear + head (9) |
| ADAS | 5 radars, 5 cameras, 12 sensors. Includes Night Vision Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, Warning and Brake Assist, Pedestrian/Cyclist Protection, Exit Warning, Rear and Front Cross Traffic Alert, High Beam Assist. | Long-range radar (300 m), four short-range radars, 8MP front camera, Assisted Driving View, Rear Crossing-Traffic Warning, Exit Warning function, Parking Assist Professional, Steering and Lane Control Assistant. | 1 LiDAR, 5 radars, 5 cameras, 2 interior cameras, 12 sensors. Features Lane Keeping Aid, Blind Spot Alert, Collision Risk Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Driver Alert Control, Road Sign Information, Active High Beam, Emergency Brake Lights, Collision Avoidance (including cyclists and pedestrians), Collision Warning at Night, Lane Departure Warning, Oncoming Traffic Collision Avoidance, Cross Traffic Alert with Brake Support, and Post-Impact Braking. |
Availability and Prices
Audi has yet to confirm its pricing, but based on the previous Audi e-tron, we can estimate it by comparing with the BMW iX and Polestar 3. All three vehicles are costly, nearing the €100,000 mark with added features. Currently, the BMW iX is available, while the Audi Q8 e-tron is set to release early next year. Those interested in the Polestar 3 will have to wait a little longer, as deliveries are expected to begin by the end of next year.
| Audi Q8 55 e-tron | BMW iX xDrive50 | Polestar 3 LR | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Announced | November 9, 2022 | November 2020 | October 12, 2022 |
| Status | Coming soon - expected Q1 2023 | Released January 2022 | Coming soon - expected Q4 2023 |
| Starting price | £80,000 €85,300 | £93,900 €100,000 $84,800 | £79,900 €88,600 $83,900 |
It is worth noting that Audi offers two body styles: SUV and Sportback. The Q8 Sportback may be a more apt comparison to the Polestar 3, as both prioritize style at the expense of rear headroom and cargo space.
In conclusion, there is no clear winner among these three models. While the faster options may possess striking designs, the conservatively styled vehicles do not lag significantly in performance. The Polestar 3 looks appealing on paper, but its availability is still a year away. Audi's Q8 e-tron could inherit the popularity of its predecessor, while BMW's impressive dynamics raise questions about whether potential buyers will overlook its design and standard equipment limitations.
