Audi
Q8 e-tron
Tesla
Model X
Audi Q8 e-tron vs Tesla Model X: 2024 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Tesla Model X comes out ahead of the Audi Q8 e-tron on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Q8 e-tron
Overall
Mixed sentiment with a clear divide between appreciation for the vehicle's core luxury attributes and significant frustration with reliability and technology. The vehicle is very frequently praised for its exceptional interior build quality, quiet and refined ride comfort, smooth handling, and overall feeling of traditional luxury. Many owners describe it as one of the quietest and most comfortable vehicles they have owned, with a high-quality interior that feels like a proper luxury car.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" trim. Feedback indicates the higher-trim Prestige models are appreciated for their feature content, but no specific trim level is singled out as being significantly more reliable or recommended over others.
Known issues
- ⚠Software glitches and MMI failures: Virtual cockpit resets, screen freezes, non-responsive touchscreens, system lag, false error messages (tire pressure, child lock), persistent bugs requiring multiple dealer software updates.
- ⚠Major electrical system failures: Complete vehicle shutdowns rendering car undriveable, battery replacement required, indeterminate electrical faults causing extended shop visits (30+ days). Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠12V battery drain issues: Caused by faulty components like stuck seat switches, leading to a dead vehicle. Warranty disputes common over fault attribution. Frequency: recurrent.
Model X
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on model year and generation. Long-term owner reports for high-mileage examples (e.g., 350,000 miles) highlight impressive battery durability with minimal degradation and low maintenance costs, fostering strong positive sentiment regarding powertrain longevity and efficiency. However, there is a very frequent and sharp criticism regarding build quality, reliability, and quality control across multiple model years, particularly for the S and X platforms compared to the Model 3/Y.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best version." Owner discussions indicate important generational divides: post-March 2018 vehicles with the MCU2 (Intel) infotainment are considered the minimum viable for features like Sentry Mode. The May 2019 "Raven" update is noted for improved suspension, motors, and range.
Known issues
- ⚠Poor build quality and reliability: very frequent mentions of squeaks, rattles, odd noises, and various quality control defects affecting the S and X platforms. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠High repair costs and complexity: cited as inevitable for older models, with few independent specialists and expensive Tesla service parts, particularly concerning for "Legacy" models. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Falcon wing door problems: mentioned as a potential failure point to inspect thoroughly before purchase. Frequency: isolated.
The verdict
The Tesla Model X is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Audi Q8 e-tron, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Audi Q8 e-tron is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Audi Q8 e-tron or the Tesla Model X?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Audi Q8 e-tron and the Tesla Model X. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Audi Q8 e-tron or the Tesla Model X?
The Tesla Model X seats more passengers than the Audi Q8 e-tron on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Audi Q8 e-tron is classed as a SUV, the Tesla Model X as a SUV.
Which has better fuel economy, the Audi Q8 e-tron or the Tesla Model X?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Audi Q8 e-tron or the Tesla Model X?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Tesla Model X than the Audi Q8 e-tron. See the known issues comparison above.