The Volkswagen Group is the parent of numerous, wonderfully distinct car brands, each with their own distinct identity. Casual enthusiasts may be surprised to know that Porsche and Audi are both under the VW Group’s family tree. These brands also have related vehicles in their lineups such as the Porsche Cayenne and the Audi 8﹣ two of the highest-ranking luxury SUVs of 2020. Let’s see how the two compare.

Performance and capability

Technically, the Porsche Cayenne and Audi Q8 feature the same platform but they perform very differently. Both SUVs come standard with a satisfyingly powerful 3.0-liter V6 engine that makes a 335-horsepower. But that’s the only engine option on the Q8. The Cayenne’s V6 is linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive comes standard. The Q8 is also paired with an eight-speed and comes with Audi’s infamous Quattro all-wheel-drive. 

You would think that the standard Cayenne and the Q8 would drive similarly but they really don’t. The Q8 offers a smooth ride quality and by no means is disappointing, but it doesn’t feel as quick and agile as the Cayenne. 

If more power is what you want, you’ll have to turn to the Cayenne since the Q8 is only offered with one engine option. There’s a  Cayenne hybrid option that offers an impressive 455-hp. The

mid-range Cayenne S  offers a 434-hp, twin-turbo 2.9-liter V6. If that’s not enough, the Cayenne Turbo is powered by a 541-hp, twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 but that goes for over six figures. 

On the inside 

Both the Cayenne and Q8 can comfortably seat five and offer plenty of cargo space. But, interior design is where the Q8 really shines. The inside of the Q8 is solid and sophisticated and comes standard with leather upholstery and heated front seats. You can add more frills like massaging front seats and heated rear seats  The Cayenne comes with handsome leather upholstery too but they are no upgraded seat freebies.

As far as infotainment systems go, the Q8’s is sleek and attractive. It’s directed by colorful dual-screens and comes standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, Bluetooth, and navigation. This infotainment system is generally easy to use and efficient.

Standard infotainment features on the Cayenne include a 12.3-inch touch screen, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, and navigation. The Cayenne’s infotainment system is also easy to use but not as cutting edge as the Q8’s, plus the Cayenne doesn’t offer Android Auto. 

Safety

We can’t fully compare the Cayenne and Q8 on safety because the Cayenne hasn’t been tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. However, the Q8 has earned top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and the IIHS.

To help prevent accidents, both the Cayenne and the Q8 come standard with forward-collision warning. Both models can also be upgraded with additional features such as blind-spot monitoring and rear-cross traffic alert.

The final verdict

We’d say that If you’re looking for a more well-rounded luxury SUV, then Q8 is a great pick. But if you’re craving more power and dynamics, the Cayenne is more satisfying.