Audi Q8 Concept Jumps on the Coupe SUV Bandwagon

The Audi Q8 concept has just debuted at the 2017 Detroit Auto Show previewing a new full-size offering that will sit at the top of the German automaker’s SUV lineup.

The Audi Q8 is the first “coupe SUV” from the automaker and will debut as a production model in 2018. With a strong stance, no window frames, a massive grille, futuristic-looking headlights, and sharp design, the Q8 concept has an impressive presence and even with its sloping roofline, Audi promises the rear-seat passengers will have ample head and shoulder room.

The Audi Q8 concept has a plug-in hybrid powertrain with a total system output of about 442 horsepower and a stout 516 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to all four wheels via an eight-speed tiptronic transmission. The combustion engine of the system is a 3.0-liter V6 producing 245 hp and 368 lb-ft of torque and the battery has a capacity of 17.9 kWh that enables an electric driving range of 37 miles (60 km). Total range on a full tank of gas and a full charge is said to be 621 miles (1,000 km).

ALSO SEE: Full 2017 Detroit Auto Show Coverage

All in, the Audi Q8 Concept can hit 62 mph in 5.4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 155 mph. Audi says the concept is also rated at 102 mpg, which is almost unheard of. With torque vectoring, an adaptive air suspension, a generous power output and different driving modes, Audi is also promising a dynamic yet efficient drive.

Of course, the Audi Q8 will have an expanded version of the Virtual Cockpit, which is accompanied by an augmented reality head-up display. And the Q8 has fricken lasers! Digital Matrix lasers with more than one million pixels are used for the high and lowbeams.

With 22.2 cubic inches of cargo capacity, the Audi Q8 concept has room for four people and their luggage. The concept will also have all the connectivity, autonomous driving features, safety and driver assistants that are now becoming the norm. The interior mixes textures and colors to create an inviting cabin, and most of the surfaces are touch capacitive, which gives the dashboard a clean look because of the lack of buttons.

When the Audi Q8 debuts as a production model likely later this year for sale in 2018, a lot of the technology from the concept is likely to carry over, however, the styling will likely be toned down significantly.

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