Audi Q8 SUV Spied Testing In India Again

Recently surfaced images of a prototype model of the Audi Q8 shows the upcoming coupe-SUV is still undergoing testing in India. Still draped in Audi's signature black disguise, the all-new Audi Q8 is expected to make its global debut later this year. Audi has been testing the Q8 in other countries as well and like the previously seen global test mule, this one was seen with bare minimum camouflage. This indicates that the Ingolstadt-based carmaker is nearly the end of development and testing phase and might soon begin production, possibly even by the end of 2018.

Audi Q8 is based on VW Group's MLB Platform

Now the new Audi Q8 is based on Volkswagen Group's MLB platform, similar to the Audi Q7 or even the newly launched Lamborghini Urus. In fact, if you take a closer look you see the Q8 prototype looks largely familiar to the Urus in its stance, but the German SUV gets a subtler and less dramatic appearance, compared to its Italian counterpart. Having said that, the Audi Q8 will be equally loaded in terms of features and technology and will be the flagship offering in Audi's SUV range, essentially, Audi's answer to the BMW X6.

Audi Q8 will be positioned above the Q7 and rival the BMW X6

The recent test mule appears to have been spotted in Mumbai, Maharashtra, and the prototype was also missing all its badging, even the four-ringed company logo. The styling and character lines are largely similar to the concept car that was revealed last year at the 2017 Detroit Auto Show. The large square pattern grille is seen housing a couple of cameras and sensors, possibly for the 360-degree parking camera feature. The SUV also features all-LED headlamps with LED daytime running lamps, and possibly new OLED taillamps like the one seen on the A8 sedan, which has been covered with black camouflage. The Q8 prototype is also seen with a set of black alloy wheels and a roof mounted spoilers.

Audi Q8 likely to come with a 3.0 TFSI six-cylinder engine

Under the hood, the all-new Audi Q8 is expected to come with a 3.0 TFSI six-cylinder engine that will come with a mild hybrid setup and an electric powered compressor. Audi says the motor is capable of churning out 469 bhp of power and a whopping 700 Nm of torque. The powertrain comes mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox and it is said to have an electric-only range of about 60 km.

Image Courtesy: Motor1