Q8 vs iX
This is a classic rivalry: the Q8 against the iX, Audi against BMW, both in midsize luxury suv territory. On paper, these two are close. Only a handful of specs separate them by a margin you’d actually notice.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance iX wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance2.6
- Engine & Performance7.2
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The iX has 181 hp more power
Here the iX pulls well ahead of the Q8, with 516 hp compared to 335 hp. The iX’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed.
-
The iX has 195 lb-ft more torque
The iX doesn’t just edge this one; 564 lb-ft against 369 lb-ft is a lead you’ll feel. The iX’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
iX leads
If engine & performance is high on your list, the iX makes the stronger case by a wide margin. The iX has the edge with 181 hp more power. More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board. That makes the iX the natural choice for buyers focused on engine & performance.
Total system output
Q8: 335 hp iX: 516 hp Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels.
Torque
Q8: 369 lb-ft iX: 564 lb-ft Electrified powertrains deliver torque instantly, so compare torque figures alongside the powertrain type.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
This area ends level; whatever separates these two, it isn’t space & practicality. On space & practicality alone, you can’t go far wrong with either.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
Neither the Q8 nor the iX has a real advantage in the off-road & towing category. Either car will serve you equally well on off-road & towing.
Safety & Tech
The safety & tech entries below are descriptive rather than numeric. Read them side by side to see where the Q8 and the iX part ways.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Q8 | iX |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas (48V mild hybrid) | Electric |
| Engine | 3.0L turbo V6 | Dual electric motors |
| Total system output | 335 hp | 516 hp (winner) |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft | 564 lb-ft (winner) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 1-speed direct drive |
| Drivetrain | AWD (quattro) | AWD (xDrive) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | Q8 | iX |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 19 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (city) | 17 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 23 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Electric range | N/A (not specified) | 309 mi |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | Q8 | iX |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Cargo (behind rear seats) | N/A (not specified) | 35.5 cu ft |
| Cargo (seats folded) | N/A (not specified) | 77.9 cu ft |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | Q8 | iX |
|---|---|---|
| Max towing | 7,700 lb | N/A (not specified) |
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | Q8 | iX |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the iX if…
- you want more power (516 hp vs 335 hp)
- you want more pulling power from low speeds (564 lb-ft vs 369 lb-ft of torque)
- you’re loyal to BMW and happy with it
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy the Q8 or the iX?
On the specs compared here, the iX makes more sense for most buyers; the Q8 doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
The Q8 versus the iX is a matchup I find genuinely interesting, because Audi and BMW made different bets. I think the iX makes its strongest case with 181 hp more power.
If you’d rather have strength in the things a spec sheet can’t capture, go with the Q8. If engine & performance is what you’d miss, go with the iX.
My pick: the iX.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.