Audi Q8 teased in sketch form ahead of June debut

Since last year, the Audi Q8 has not only been seen in numerous spyshots, but it’s also been previewed by not one, but two concepts. The BMW X6-rivalling coupé-style SUV will finally be revealed in June, and after showing us a teaser last month, Audi has now released a sketch of the upcoming model.

From the sole rear rendering, we can see that the finished product will derive heavily from the Q8 concept and Q8 sport show cars, even though the design has been toned down significantly. The car will feature the latest Audi design cues such as the full-width tail lights from the new A7 and A8, prominent haunches (which Ingolstadt says is a visual representation of its quattro all-wheel drive system) and fake twin exhausts.

The interior, seen in previous spyshots, follows the template set by the A8, with twin screens in the centre console – the upper one for infotainment, the lower one for climate control and other vehicle functions. There are also full-width air-con vents, along with a tall transmission tunnel for a more coupé-like feel.

The Q8 will ride on the MLB Evo platform employed by the Q7, Bentley Bentayga, Porsche Cayenne and the new Volkswagen Touareg, and expect engine options to largely mirror that of the A8. Two powertrains have already been shown so far – the 476 hp 3.0 litre TFSI V6 with a 48V mild hybrid system in the Q8 sport and the 448 hp plug-in hybrid version in the Q8 concept. An eight-speed automatic transmission and a quattro permanent all-wheel drive system will likely be offered as standard.

Together with the release of the sketch, Audi has also announced a new series of video shorts called Q8 Unleashed. Five episodes will be released over a period of two weeks – one every four days (four rings, geddit?) – with the last one to be shown on June 5. Will that be when the Q8 is finally revealed?

GALLERY: Audi Q8 spyshots

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