It appears German luxury automaker Audi is planning to go "ultra-luxury" in the near future - perhaps as soon this year - based on the Audi Q8 Concept SUV, recently unveiled at the 2017 Detroit Auto Show. Kelley Blue Book® has a report on Audi's next-generation SUV that is expected to compete more directly with very high-end models from the likes of Maserati and Bentley. Click "play" in the clip below to watch video from Detroit.
As seen in the video clip, the Audi Q8 blends conventional SUV design with coupe-like styling, for a look that could be characterized as more aggressive and edgy than usual. In fact, it features the boldest execution yet of Audi's signature SingleFrame grille. Body panels are muscularly sculpted, and this Q8 has frameless side door glass, a swooping roofline and defined wheel arches and fenders. Of course, this is a concept car, so the appearance will likely undergo some further refinements.
The Q8 Concept is a plug-in gas/electric hybrid, new for Audi's SUV lineup. It's powered by 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 that produces 329 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque and is paired with an electric motor that generates 134 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque. That's an intimidating combined 443 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. A 17.9 kWh lithium-ion battery provides about 37 miles of pure electric range, according to Audi.
Then there's the cabin. It's very nice - all Nappa/Nubuck leather, soft-touch surfaces and polished aluminum accents. But the main attraction is Audi's new interactive digital display that customizable depending on what the driver and passengers need or want to see.
We're excited here at Audi Huntsville about the prospect of this new, very posh Audi Q8 Concept SUV, and we'll continue to keep you posted as we learn more. In the meantime, we have a terrific selection of very nice 2017 Audi sedans and SUVs, from the A3, A4, A6, A7 and A8 to the Q3, Q5 and Q7. Our knowledgeable sales professionals are ready to answer all your questions and help you choose and configure the Audi that best suits your lifestyle. Stop by our Huntsville dealership today, or call us at (888) 697-1755 to schedule time for test drive.