Let’s just get this straight out of the way: The Q8 Sportback e-tron, bar the S and RS models, is the best version of the Q8 to own. Before the EV-haters turn the page, or scroll past, here’s the logic behind that rather bold statement. The Q8 is pitched as a luxury performance SUV. In all-electric form, it is more than able to deliver on both of those aspects in abundance.

EXTERIOR

The Q8 entered the automotive world to capitalise on the coupé-SUV trend. It is, in essence, a five-seater coupé version of the seven-seat, family-focused Q7. At some point that wasn’t enough, and the Q8 was further coupé-ified to be granted the Sportback moniker, a demarcation that Audi reserves for its hatchback. So, a Q8 Sportback, is a coupé variant of a vehicle that was already designed to be a coupé. Coupé times two — coupe2 or coupé-ception — it does work. Putting an even deeper rake to the rear roofline of the Q8 does change its look significantly. It appears lower, sleeker, and more like a sports car from a distance, hiding its large SUV dimensions well. The standard Q8 is already the typical clean Audi design. The Sportback is not better or worse, it’s just offering an option for those who want to fully embrace the coupé-SUV trend.

INTERIOR

Entry into the Q8 is premium — keyless with illuminated handles on all four doors, plus lit door sills and puddle lamps. In keeping with the sportier nature of the Q8, the heated leather seats can be powered low and support performance driving. The panoramic sunroof expands the perception of greater space when open. The cabin is well appointed with quality materials such as Alcantara and metal accents over Audi’s techy but minimalist design. The technology is plentiful, yet never intrudes or distracts since most of it lays buried in the dual screen Audi MMI system and its virtual cockpit, which continues to be as fast and fresh as the day they introduced it. Click, swipe, tap, write, and even speak to interact as one pleases since all main functions can be set and forgotten for the sake of convenience, including the four zones of climate control.

Due to the electric drivetrain, the luxury of Audi’s build quality is amplified — pun intended. Stop or go, the interior is near silent leaving only the B&O stereo system to do its job. The sense of serenity, especially at night when coupled with the ambient lighting, is an environment the petrol-powered Q8 is unable to match.

ON THE ROAD

Then there’s the drivetrain, now powered by electrons, not fossil fuel. Motivating the Q8 e-tron are two electric motors, front and rear, for the legendary Quattro traction. They are fed by a 170kWh DC fast charging capable 114kWh battery with a rated range of 483 kilometres. It can also AC charge at 11kWh. Horsepower is a maximum of 402bhp with 490lb/ft of torque.

Again, here the luxury is felt. The instantaneous power from the EV drivetrain delivers butter-smooth forward momentum at low speeds. Provoke the accelerator even further and the performance side of the Q8 reacts just as immediate hitting 60mph in 5.4 seconds, carrying occupants on a wall of electric torque. The chassis and suspension are up to task as well. The handling is lively and safe, giving plenty of feedback on the weight dynamics to avoid entering corners at the velocities the Q8 e-tron is able to achieve. A portion of this driving feel comes from the fact that the EV drivetrain puts the weight low and centre in the body. There’s always grip from both the all-wheel drive and the air suspension that soaks up the asphalt atrocities that pass for the surfaces of the Jamaican road network. Brakes also inspire confidence, operating sharply and with consistent feel for both regeneration and physical stopping power.

Performing daily tasks the Q8 e-tron is soft, quiet, and practical. Real-world range sees over 340km average in the standard modes. Switch to range mode which caps speed at 90kph and sacrifices the climate control and around 450km is attainable. Drive the Q8 e-tron fast and its coupé design can be justified as it morphs into a high performance sedan. For those who have the lifestyle that the Audi fits, it’s a very good match.