VS
At a Glance
Power
631hp
420hp @ 5600
Torque
627lb-ft
460lb-ft @ 4100
Towing
—
7700lbs
Engine
4.0 L/244cc
6.2L/375cc
Choosing between the Audi Q8 and the Cadillac Escalade is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Audi Q8 delivers 631hp while the Cadillac Escalade produces 420hp @ 5600. Pricing starts at $138,300 for the Q8 and $122,900 for the Escalade. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
631hp
420hp @ 5600
Torque (lb-ft)
627lb-ft
460lb-ft @ 4100
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
4.0 L/244cc
6.2L/375cc
Cylinders
8
8
Fuel Type
—
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
—
Transmission
Automatic
Automatic
Number of Gears
8
—
Drive Wheels
All Wheel Drive
Four Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
14mpg
14mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
20mpg
18mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
22.5gal
28gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
197.3in
226.95in
Width (in)
78.7in
81.08in
Height (in)
66.7in
76.40in
Wheelbase (in)
117.9in
134in
Curb Weight (lbs)
5434lbs
—
Towing & Payload
Towing Capacity (lbs)
—
7700lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Sunroof
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Trailer Hitch
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Cadillac Escalade
2 / 4 categories
Performance
Q8
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
Escalade
Practicality
Escalade
Pros & Cons
Audi Q8
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Cadillac Escalade
Lower starting price ($122,900)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has more power, the Q8 or Escalade?
The Q8 produces 631hp and 627lb-ft of torque while the Escalade delivers 420hp @ 5600 and 460lb-ft @ 4100 of torque. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the Q8 and Escalade?
The Q8 starts from $138,300 and the Escalade from $122,900. The Escalade is cheaper by $15,400 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Which has a higher towing capacity, the Q8 or Escalade?
The Q8 has a braked towing capacity of not specified and the Escalade can tow 7700lbs. Always verify towing limits in the owner's manual before hitching a trailer.
Should I buy the Q8 or the Escalade?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.