When the Audi Q8 was revealed back in June 2018, it was powered by a 213 kW/600 N.m 3,0-litre V6 turbodiesel (with this model wearing the “50 TDI” badge). Now, however, the Ingolstadt-based firm has added two new V6 engine options to the range.
First up is an additional, lower-powered version of the aforementioned oil-burner. In 45 TDI guise, the diesel delivers 170 kW and 500 N.m, with the latter on tap between 1 750 and 3 250 r/min. Audi says this derivative will hit 100 km/h from standstill in 7,1 seconds before topping out at 233 km/h.
The new Q8 55 TFSI, meanwhile, employs a turbocharged 3,0-litre petrol V6 worth 250 kW and 500 N.m. The obligatory sprint to three figures takes a claimed 5,9 seconds, while maximum speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.
All three engines work in conjunction with a mild hybrid system comprising a lithium-ion battery and a belt alternator starter that supplies the 48V main electrical system. And all versions feature an eight-speed automatic transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive as standard.
The new Q8 is expected to launch in South Africa in the first quarter of 2019. Local engine options have yet to be confirmed.
Sharing much of its running gear with the Q7 (and thus also closely related to Volkswagen Group siblings in the form of the Bentley Bentayga, Lamborghini Urus, Porsche Cayenne and VW Touareg), Audi says its five-seater flagship crossover “combines the elegance of a four-door luxury coupé with the practical versatility of a large SUV”, and adds that it is “tough enough for off-road duty”.
The SUV-coupé is wider, shorter and lower than the Q7, and features a completely different face and sloping roofline. In addition, the Slovakia-built Q8’s spoiler, wheel-arch trim, door trim strips and diffuser will come in a contrasting colour.
