2019 Audi Q8 unveiled

Audi has unveiled its latest Q8 luxury SUV. The new model will go on sale in Europe in Q3-2018.

The Audi Q8 is based on the VW Group's MLBevo platform, which also underpins the Audi Q7, Bentley Bentayga, Lamborghini Urus, Porsche Cayenne and the VW Touareg. The Q8 is wider, shorter and lower than the Q7. It measures 4,999 mm in length, 2,012 mm in width and 1,707 mm in height, while the wheelbase is 2,987 mm. With the rear seats folded down, the boot has a volume of 1,755 litres.

The new Q8 features a single frame octagonal grille with a silver frame and is flanked by LED headlights. The front bumper features large air vents on both sides and an integrated scuff plate. The Q8 has a coupe-like side profile and rides on 22-inch alloy wheels. At the rear, it has a steeply raked windshield with a spoiler on top. It has LED tail lights and an LED light bar that extends across the tailgate. 

On the inside, the Q8 features a flat-faced dashboard with a gloss black surface and chrome trim. It has twin-touchscreens in the centre console similar to the Urus and a 3-spoke steering wheel. Like most modern Audis, the new Q8 comes with a 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit. The seats are wrapped in diamond stitched leather upholstery and have a massage function.

Initially, the Q8 will be offered with a 3.0-litre, V6 diesel with 282 BHP. Audi claims it will do 0-100 km/h in 6.3 seconds and reach a top speed of 232 km/h. A V6 petrol with 335 BHP and a V6 diesel with 228 BHP will be introduced in 2019. All engines come with a 48V mild-hybrid system, which has features like idle start/stop, coasting function and brake energy regeneration. Depending on the choice of engine, transmission options include an 8-speed automatic and a 7-speed dual-clutch. Quattro all-wheel drive system is standard on all variants. The Q8 rides on air-suspension, which can raise the ride height by up to 90 mm. All-wheel steering is available as an option.

Some of the notable safety features include adaptive cruise assist, efficiency assist, crossing assist, lane change warning, curb warning, 360 degree camera, parking pilot, hill decent control among others.