The covers have come off the 2019 Audi Q8, the new model will act as Audi’s flagship SUV and is expected to be available to Australian buyers early next year.
From the images, the design looks far sharper than the current Q7. The Singleframe grille, frameless windows and full width LED lights at the rear combine to deliver one of Audi’s better-looking SUVs.
Dimensionally, the Q8 measures in at 4986mm long, 2000mm wide, 1705mm tall with a 2994mm wheelbase. It’s not as long as the Q7 (5052mm), but the wheelbase measurement is identical.
Interestingly, with the optional adaptive air suspension, the Q8 offers a significant 254mm of ground clearance. Helpful if owners get the urge to get their Q8 dirty?
When on the road, the ride height can be adjusted to match the driving situation, Audi says it can be lowered by 90mm.
The interior looks to be typical Audi, the Q8 will feature the brand’s latest interior layout with two touchscreens that control the majority of the car’s functions. The upper 10.1-inch display is used for controlling the infotainment and the navigation system, while the lower 8.6-inch display houses the controls for the climate and convenience functions.
Audi’s high-resolution 12.3-inch virtual cockpit will also be found in the instrument cluster.
To date, there is no word on what powertrains will be available in Australia. European buyers will get a 3.0-litre 210kw/600Nm V6 turbo-diesel at launch with a less powerful diesel and petrol options to follow.
All Q8 variants will utilise an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
Efficiency is said to be impressive thanks to the new mild hybrid technology (MHEV). The 48-volt system incorporates a lithium-ion battery and a belt alternator starter. The system can recover up to 12kW of power during braking which is sent into the battery. The MHEV technology also allows the Q8 to coast with the engine deactivated between 55 and 160km/h.
Local specifications and pricing will be announced closer to the Q8’s Australian launch early next year.
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