Q8 vs EX90
Both the Q8 and the EX90 sit in the midsize luxury suv class, and Audi and Volvo are clearly watching each other. The data doesn’t leave much room for doubt: 2 of 3 areas go to the EX90, and the gap is widest in engine & performance.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance EX90 wins
- Space & Practicality EX90 wins
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance2.6
- Engine & Performance5.6
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 EX90 has 67 hp more power
Put simply, the EX90 is far ahead here: 402 hp compared with 335 hp. The EX90’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed.
-
The EX90 has room for 7 seats
The EX90’s 7 seats leaves the Q8’s 5 seats well behind, so if this spec matters to you, the choice is easy. Third-row seats are often best for kids, so check legroom figures if adults will sit there.
-
The EX90 has 199 lb-ft more torque
Not a close call. The EX90 lists 568 lb-ft and the Q8 lists 369 lb-ft. That’s a substantial gap. Electrified powertrains deliver torque instantly, so compare torque figures alongside the powertrain type.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
EX90 leads
Look at the engine & performance table and one name keeps coming out on top: the EX90. The EX90 brings 67 hp more power. More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board. On engine & performance alone, the EX90 gets the nod.
Total system output
Q8: 335 hp EX90: 402 hp Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels.
Torque
Q8: 369 lb-ft EX90: 568 lb-ft More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Space & Practicality
EX90 leads
Few areas are as clear-cut as this one: the EX90 leads the space & practicality section with room to spare. The EX90 steps ahead thanks to room for 7 seats. The EX90 has room for more passengers, useful for growing families and carpools. For space & practicality, the EX90 is the one to beat.
Seats
Q8: 5 seats EX90: 7 seats Extra seats mean you can take more people along without taking a second car.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
You can skip ahead if off-road & towing was your deciding factor: the two are evenly matched here. Neither car gives you a reason to choose it on off-road & towing.
Safety & Tech
This section is descriptive. The Q8 and the EX90 list different components for safety & tech, and the table spells them out.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | Q8 | EX90 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas (48V mild hybrid) | Electric |
| Engine | 3.0L turbo V6 | Dual electric motors |
| Total system output | 335 hp | 402 hp (winner) |
| Torque | 369 lb-ft | 568 lb-ft (winner) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 1-speed direct drive |
| Drivetrain | AWD (quattro) | AWD |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | Q8 | EX90 |
|---|---|---|
| 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) | 310 mi |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | Q8 | EX90 |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats (winner) |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | Q8 | EX90 |
|---|---|---|
| Max towing | 7,700 lb | N/A (not specified) |
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | Q8 | EX90 |
|---|---|---|
| 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 EX90 if…
- you want more power (402 hp vs 335 hp)
- you need more seats (7 seats vs 5 seats)
- you often drive loaded up or with a trailer (568 lb-ft vs 369 lb-ft of torque)
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy the Q8 or the EX90?
On the specs compared here, the EX90 makes more sense for most buyers; the Q8 doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
The Q8 against the EX90: two brands, one class, and more nuance than the marketing suggests. For me, the deciding factor is that only the EX90 gives you 67 hp more power. It also helps that the EX90 has room for 7 seats.
The way I see it, people who prioritize the things a spec sheet can’t capture will be happier with the Q8, and those who prioritize engine & performance with the EX90.
My pick: the EX90.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.