Audi Q8 Concept revealed at NAIAS in Detroit

Audi has revealed the Q8 Concept at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. This concept is an indication of Audi's plans to enter the full-size luxury SUV segment. Audi has already started working on the production model based on the Q8 concept, which was recently spotted testing with production body and is expected to go on sale in the international markets by 2019.

The Q8 Concept shown at the motor show is finished in a new Bombay Blue colour shade. It comes with an octagonal singleframe front grille with honeycomb inserts. The grille is relatively wider than what is found on other Audi models currently on sale. It is flanked by a pair of wedge-shaped headlights, which use Audi's Matrix laser technology for the low and high beams. The top edge of the headlight assemblies get an LED light guide that acts as the DRLs as well as dynamic turn indicators.

The side profile reveals the Q8 Concept's coupe-like styling, thanks to a sloping roofline. Other design elements on the side include frameless windows, a thick C-pillar and flared wheel arches. The rear gets a sharp roof-mounted spoiler, while the LED taillights stretch across the entire width of the SUV. The rear bumper houses an aluminium diffuser.

Powering the Q8 Concept is a plug-in hybrid setup, which includes a 3.0 litre petrol TFSI engine that puts out 324 BHP and 500 Nm. Additionally, an electric motor rated at 132 BHP works in conjunction with the gasoline mill to produce a combined output of 436 BHP and 700 Nm of peak torque. Audi claims that the Q8 Concept can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds, before hitting its top speed of 250 km/h. It also has a pure-electric range of about 60 kilometres. The 17.9 kWh lithium-ion battery pack can be charged up in around two and a half hours.