Are the Q8 and Urus on the Same Platform?
3 Answers
The all-new Audi Q8, as the flagship luxury SUV of the Audi family, shares the same MLB-evo platform with the Lamborghini Urus. Below is an introduction to the MLB-evo platform: Introduction: MLB is the abbreviation for the German term 'Modularer-Lngsbaukasten,' meaning 'Longitudinal Engine Standardized Platform,' which refers to its modular nature. The MLB platform was first applied to the 2007 Audi A5. Later, to develop Porsche's compact SUV model, the Macan, an improved version called MLB-evo was introduced. Advantages: The MLB-evo platform excels in supporting front-mounted longitudinal engine models, thus removing size limitations on engines. Additionally, it can highly integrate the necessary automotive components, reducing the development cycle and costs for new vehicles. Due to its significant advantages, this platform notably enhances vehicle development and cost reduction.
As someone who frequently delves into automotive architectures, I must say the Q8 and Urus indeed share the same platform—Volkswagen Group's MLB Evo architecture. This modular design allows the Audi Q8 and Lamborghini Urus to share chassis, suspension, and engine foundations, such as variants of the 4.0-liter V8 engine. The Volkswagen Group employs this to save costs and enhance efficiency, which is why you'll see similar skeletons in other luxury SUVs like the Bentley Bentayga or Porsche Cayenne. However, the differences are substantial: the Q8 is tuned more for family comfort, with refined interiors suited for daily commutes, while the Urus is optimized by Lamborghini for extreme performance, boasting up to 650PS horsepower, making it more suited for track thrills. Overall, platform sharing reduces R&D costs, but brand DNA creates vastly different driving experiences—like different plays on the same stage, one a heartwarming drama, the other an action blockbuster. From an environmental perspective, both improve resource reuse rates, indirectly supporting sustainable innovation. In short, platform sharing is an industry trend, but the experience value entirely depends on your needs.
I find this question quite interesting because I've driven both cars from a friend for comparison. The Q8 and Urus indeed share Volkswagen Group's MLB Evo platform with similar chassis, but stepping inside feels like two completely different worlds. The Audi Q8 offers a comfortable and quiet ride with high-tech interior that makes it feel like driving a sophisticated family SUV. The Urus, on the other hand, bursts with Lamborghini DNA—explosive acceleration that pins you to the seat, turning heads everywhere though less practical for daily use. The shared platform brings maintenance benefits, like interchangeable parts (e.g., certain sensors). The core difference lies in branding: Volkswagen uses this strategy to cut costs while allowing each brand to shine uniquely—like chefs in the same kitchen, where the Q8 serves refined home-style dishes and the Urus delivers a premium feast. I’ve noticed similar shared models like the Cayenne, all part of VW’s smart play. This approach boosts eco-friendliness and efficiency, but your choice ultimately hinges on whether you prioritize daily commuting or adrenaline-pumping thrills. And don’t overlook the price gap—the Q8 is far more affordable, while the Urus costs multiples more. Yet platform sharing proves: a shared skeleton can still forge distinct souls.
