Audi Q8 E-Tron Edition Dakar Takes Off-Roading to New Levels with Rally-Inspired Design

Audi is celebrating its participation in the Dakar Rally by introducing a special edition of the Q8 E-Tron, dubbed the Edition Dakar. The electric SUV is now equipped with increased ground clearance, unique exterior highlights, and off-road tires for enhanced performance.

The Edition Dakar features suspension modifications and General Grabber AT3 tires, raising the Q8 E-Tron’s ground clearance by over an inch. Despite this adjustment, the system is still designed to lower the vehicle at higher speeds to improve aerodynamics and driving range. In its highest setting, the SUV offers approach, break-over, and departure angles of 20, 19, and 26 degrees, respectively. Although not quite comparable to a Jeep Wrangler on the Rubicon Trail, it is designed to handle more rugged terrain than the standard Q8 E-Tron.

Visually, the Edition Dakar is distinctive with wider wheel arch flares and Mythos Black Metallic exterior trim. It is available in three colors: Siam Beige Metallic, Mythos Black Metallic, and Magnetic Gray. Additionally, buyers can opt for a decal package inspired by the plug-in hybrid RS Q E-Tron, Audi’s Dakar Rally representative.

Standard features of the Edition Dakar include Matrix LED exterior lighting, the S-Line interior with sport seats, a sport steering wheel, and brushed matte aluminum interior trim. The vehicle comes with both off-road and summer tire sets, as well as a roof rack and specific rally-inspired graphics for the infotainment system’s display.

Despite its off-road enhancements, Audi has not made any drivetrain modifications. The Q8 E-Tron Edition Dakar is powered by two electric motors drawing power from a 106-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack, producing 402 horsepower and 488 pound-feet of torque in boost mode. With the off-road tires, it can accelerate from zero to 62 mph in 5.9 seconds and has a range of up to 302 miles according to the WLTP cycle used in Europe.

The Audi Q8 E-Tron Edition Dakar is now available for purchase at a base price of €120,000 in Germany, equivalent to approximately $131,000. Production is limited to 99 units, and availability in other markets is still to be confirmed. We will update this information as it becomes available.