With the Q8 Concept unveiled today in Detroit, Audi stakes its claim as the first premium-brand automaker in the large crossover-coupe segment.
Following in the footsteps of the midsize BMW X6 and Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, the Audi Q8 Concept is based on an existing crossover, but sports a more rakish roofline and generally more athletic feel.
The Q8 Concept shares its basic architecture with Audi’s Q7 full-size crossover, but gives up some cargo- and passenger space in exchange for a sportier profile.
The Q8 Concept is hybrid powered, featuring a 333-horsepower supercharged 3.0-liter V6 combined with a 125-horsepower electric motor. Power is delivered through Audi’s quattro AWD system via a conventional 8-speed automatic.
Audi claims this powertrain can launch the Q8 Concept to 60 mph from a stop in just 5.4 seconds. The company promises that a production version will follow up the Q8 Concept in the near future.
CG Says:
As a flagship SUV, a production version of the Q8 will likely serve Audi well. Sales volume, however, will likely be low, as the market for crossovers with sticker prices in the $90K range (our guess) and limited utility is necessarily small. We’re looking forward to seeing Q8s on the road, we just don’t expect to see very many.
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