Buyers looking for a richly appointed, environmentally friendly midsize SUV have an ever-expanding array of choices. Two of these, the Audi Q8 e-tron and BMW iX, are impressive all-electric choices that have already been on the market for a few years. Both offer top-notch luxury and performance with a plethora of standard equipment. There are some key differences to consider, though. Let’s see how they compare.
2025 Audi Q8 e-tron
2024 model shown
The Q8 e-tron is Audi’s flagship electric SUV. An upgrade last year brought a quicker-charging battery and an increased driving range, make this luxury EV all the more desirable. The Q8 e-tron brings elegant design, advanced technology, and a sizeable interior to the table, making it a well-rounded choice. An electric version of Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive (AWD) system comes standard on the whole lineup.
Audi Q8 e-tron highlights
Lower price: The entry-level Q8 e-tron can be had for over $12,000 less than the base BMW iX. On top of that, Audi offers two years of unlimited free charging at Electrify America’s nationwide network of EV charging stations. The iX also comes with two years of complimentary charging sessions at Electrify America stations but limited to 30-minute sessions. Considering most high-output public chargers seldom charge at their maximum advertised speed, this small detail could make a big difference.
Familiar styling: Based solely on looks, few would guess the Audi Q8 e-tron is a fully electric SUV. The Audi brand styling cues are strong and don’t give many hints that the Q8 e-tron is a future-forward member of the family. The interior also takes a classic approach, with stacked console screens nestled in the center of the dashboard.
Choice of body styles: The Q8 e-tron stands out among electric SUVs for offering a choice between a well-proportioned raised wagon body and the coupe-like Sportback body. The BMW only has one shape.
2025 BMW iX
2024 model shown
The BMW iX is a fully electric midsize SUV with spirited performance, the latest tech, and a futuristic design. All models feature standard xDrive AWD, and the driving range is among the best in the class. For 2025 BMW adds a digital key feature to the My BMW app and new functionality to a couple of optional driver aids.
BMW iX Highlights
Futuristic style: BMW gave the iX an aerodynamically efficient exterior that looks more avant-garde than any version of the Q8. The cabin is equally streamlined, with a long, curved screen dominating the minimalist dash.
Sportier drive: Even the base 516-horsepower iX xDrive50 is just about as quick as Audi’s most high-performance SQ8 e-tron model, and there’s still more speed available on the 610-horsepower iX M60. The standard Q8 SUV peaks at 402 horsepower, and the SQ8 offers 496. The BMW’s handling is agile and confident, a classic BMW brand trademark.
More cargo room: The iX offers superior cargo capacity, with 35.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 77.9 cubic feet with them folded down. That’s a far sight more than the roomiest Q8 e-tron SUV, which has 28.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 56.4 cubic feet with folded rear seats.
Similarities
These two luxury electric SUVs have comparable DC fast charging times, ultra-quiet high-tech cabins, and are produced with an eye towards being environmentally conscious.
Conclusion
Either of these choices will do an exceptional job of handling day-to-day life. The BMW iX is a stronger choice for buyers who prefer an edgier design, a more dynamic driving experience, and extra cargo space. Those priorities come at a price, though. For some, the Q8 e-tron’s considerably lower manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) and unlimited free DC fast charging for two years are a compelling nod toward Audi.
New 2025 Audi Q8 e-tron Prices
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Retail Price
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Fair Purchase Price (92620)
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$76,095 |
TBD |
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$80,495 |
TBD |
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$86,495 |
TBD |
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 Audi Q8 e-tron vehicles and New 2025 BMW iX vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
| 2025 Audi Q8 e-tron | 2025 BMW iX | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | Dual electric motors | Dual electric motors |
| Horsepower | 335-402 hp | 516 hp |
| Torque | 414-490 lb-ft | 564 lb-ft |
| Transmission | Single-speed automatic | Single-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | 80 city/83 highway/81 combined MPGe | 83 city/82 highway/83 combined MPGe |
| Also Available | Triple electric motors, 496 hp/718 lb-ft of torque | 610 hp/749 lb-ft of torque |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 8 years/100,000 miles | 8 years/100,000 miles |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 115.2 inches | 118.1 inches |
| Overall Length | 193.2 inches | 195.0 inches |
| Width | 76.8 inches | 77.4 inches |
| Height | 64.8 inches | 66.8 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 40 feet | 42.8 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 38.1 inches | 41.5 inches |
| Headroom, Rear | 39.0 inches | 39.5 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 40.8 inches | 40.2 inches |
| Legroom, Rear | 39.1 inches | 38.9 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 58.6 inches | 61.5 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Rear | 57.2 inches | 58.3 inches |
| Cargo Volume | 27.2-28.5/54.5-56.4 cubic feet | 35.5/77.9 cubic feet |
