Audi has officially confirmed the discontinuation of its Q8 e-tron SUV following the closure of its Brussels factory in February 2025, marking the end of a seven-year run for the electric vehicle (EV) that kickstarted the brand’s modern electric era. According to an article from Car and Driver, a successor to the Q8 e-tron is already in development, promising a new chapter for Audi’s luxury EV lineup.

Q8 e-tron’s Legacy in the Electric SUV Market

The Q8 e-tron, originally launched as the e-tron in 2019, played a pivotal role in establishing Audi’s presence in the electric SUV segment. A sloped-roof Sportback variant joined the lineup in 2020, followed by a refresh in 2024 that introduced the “Q8” prefix. Despite its pioneering status, the Q8 e-tron struggled with sales, peaking at 8,180 units for the traditional SUV variant in 2023, alongside 1,907 units for the Sportback. In 2024, the Q8 e-tron and its Sportback were surpassed by Audi’s more compact Q4 e-tron models, reflecting a shift in consumer preference toward smaller, more affordable EVs.

The closure of Audi’s Brussels facility on February 28, 2025, directly led to the Q8 e-tron’s discontinuation. An Audi spokesperson told Car and Driver, “The Brussels facility was shut down on February 28, 2025, and confirmed that this decision spelled the end for the current Audi Q8 e-tron.” This shutdown concludes production after the 2025 model year, with only a small batch of Q8 e-trons produced for that year.

Audi Q8 E-Tron Discontinued In 2025, Successor Planned For Ev Enthusiasts

What’s Next for Audi’s Electric SUV Lineup?

Audi has confirmed that a successor to the Q8 e-tron is in development, though specifics remain under wraps. Industry speculation suggests the next-generation model could grow in size and price to position it as Audi’s flagship electric SUV. Currently, Audi offers the Q6 e-tron, a mid-size luxury SUV that measures about six inches shorter than the Q8 e-tron and undercuts its base price by approximately $10,000. The Q6 e-tron, built on the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture co-developed with Porsche, offers improved efficiency and range compared to the Q8 e-tron’s older MLB Evo platform.

The Q8 e-tron’s successor might adopt the PPE platform as well, potentially offering a range exceeding the Q8 e-tron’s EPA-estimated 285 miles for the SUV variant and 300 miles for the Sportback. A larger battery pack, enhanced aerodynamics, and faster charging capabilities—already seen in the Q6 e-tron’s 270 kW DC fast-charging—could further elevate the successor’s appeal in the competitive luxury EV market.

Implications for EV Owners and the Industry

For EV owners, the Q8 e-tron’s discontinuation signals Audi’s strategic pivot toward more versatile and efficient electric models. The Q8 e-tron, while groundbreaking in 2019, faced challenges with its heavier curb weight—around 5,800 pounds—and less competitive range compared to newer rivals like the Tesla Model X or BMW iX. A larger, more advanced successor could better cater to buyers seeking premium electric SUVs with greater range and modern tech, especially in the U.S. market where EV adoption continues to grow.

From an industry perspective, Audi’s decision reflects broader trends in the EV sector, where automakers are streamlining production to focus on scalable platforms like the PPE. The Brussels factory closure highlights the economic pressures of maintaining older facilities amid rising production costs and the shift toward localized manufacturing for EVs. As Audi prepares to roll out the Q8 e-tron’s successor, likely by 2026, enthusiasts can expect a more refined electric SUV that builds on the Q8 e-tron’s legacy while addressing its shortcomings in a rapidly evolving market.

Photos courtesy of Audi