Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2021 Audi Q8
The 2021 Audi Q8 is a suv that earns a Carivo score of 7.4/10 — rated Good. Its strongest dimension is Technology at 8.4/10, while Value at 6.5/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a capable but unexceptional suv — stronger alternatives exist if you're willing to shop the segment carefully.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. At 6.9/10 for reliability, this suv trails its segment. That doesn't rule it out, but go in with eyes open on running costs. Safety lands at 8.3/10 — solid, though some rivals offer more advanced driver-assist features as standard. Confirm official results for your trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
With 7.5/10 for performance, this is a car tuned for daily driving rather than excitement — perfectly capable on the commute, unremarkable on a back road. On technology it rates 8.4/10: a modern, well-integrated suite that compares favorably with anything at this price point.
Priced from $67,522–$80,405, 17 MPG, seating 5, the Audi Q8 sits in the luxury tier of the suv market. The value score of 6.5/10 is a red flag — comparable alternatives offer meaningfully more for the same outlay. Shop the segment before deciding. At 5 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Verdict: The 2021 Audi Q8 sits in the middle of the field. Until its reliability and value scores improve, stronger options exist at this price. Worth a look if it fits a specific need; otherwise use our compare tool against the segment leaders first.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among SUVs
The 2021 Audi Q8 ranks #1166 of 2454 suvs in the Carivo database — better than 53% of the segment. Its 7.4/10 overall score is exactly at the segment average of 7.4/10. Its $67,522 starting price is about 87% above the segment's median of $36,079.
$0 — 7 campaigns on record; recall work is always free at franchised dealers
Insurance
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which Q8 Year Should You Buy?
Across the Q8 model years we've scored, the 2021 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Strong safety ratings from NHTSA and independent testers
Competent performance that satisfies most everyday driving demands
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
Versatile body style handles daily commuting and weekend adventures equally well
✗ Where it falls short
Reliability scores are mid-pack; some owners report higher-than-expected maintenance needs
Fuel economy at 17 MPG is low — running costs will add up quickly
Premium price bracket — make sure the score justifies the outlay vs. segment alternatives
NHTSA Recalls — 2021 Audi Q8 (7 on record)
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle with our free VIN recall checker.
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Audi Q8, and 2020-2021 Audi Q7 vehicles. A component inside the fuel pump may break, causing the fuel pump to fail.
Back over prevention / Display function 05/10/2022 · 22V742000
Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. (Volkswagen) is recalling certain 2021 Audi A8, RS7, RS6 Avant, RS5 Sportback, RS5 Coupe, Q8, Q7, Q5 Sportback, S4 Sedan, Q5, A7, A6, A6 Allroad, A5 Sportback, A5 Coupe, A5 Cabrioleet, A4 Sedan, A4 Allroad, E-Tron…
Showing 5 of 7 campaigns — see the full list on NHTSA's site.
Own a 2021 Audi Q8 that's been repaired repeatedly for the same problem? It may qualify under your state's lemon law — run the free lemon law check →
Common Questions — 2021 Audi Q8
Is the 2021 Audi Q8 reliable?
We rate the 2021 Audi Q8's reliability 6.9/10 — below the segment average, so budget for higher maintenance. It has 7 NHTSA recall campaigns on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2021 Audi Q8 have?
7 NHTSA recall campaigns matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2021 Audi Q8 worth buying?
It scores 7.4/10 overall, ranking #1166 of 2454 suvs in our database (better than 53% of the segment). Stronger-scoring alternatives exist at similar prices — use our compare tool before committing.
How much does the 2021 Audi Q8 cost?
The 2021 Audi Q8 starts at $67,522 and ranges up to $80,405 across trims (MSRP when new). At 17 MPG, expect roughly $3,088/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which Q8 years should you avoid?
No standout weak years: across the 8 Q8 model years we've scored, every year lands within half a point of the best (7.5/10). Pick on price and condition rather than year.
What problems does the 2021 Audi Q8 have?
The documented issues for the 2021 Audi Q8 are its NHTSA recall campaigns, which involve: Seat belts, Tires, Suspension, Fuel system, gasoline (details in the recalls section above; repairs are free at dealers). For wear-and-tear patterns beyond recalls, owner forums are the best source — we only report what federal data documents.
Owner Essentials — Audi Q8
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More Audi Reviews
Explore the full lineup of Audi models scored by Carivo — ranked by overall score across reliability, safety, value, performance, and technology.
Representative photo — may show another model year