Audi Q8 Spotted up close in China

05/09/2017 - 18:04 Audi Q8, Audi Dhruv Saxena

The forthcoming Audi Q8 SUV has been spotted up close in China. Two camouflaged test mules were spotted by Auto China. The Q8 is based on the concept of the same name and will make its global debut next year.

2018 Audi Q8 spotted in China front three quarters — The 2018 Audi Q8 test units have the same overall profile as the concept unveiled at the 2017 Detroit Auto Show.

Much of the exterior of the SUV is hidden under the camouflage wrap. However, the grille outline and headlamp profile are still evident. The grille appears to be similar to the 2018 Audi A8's Singleframe design. It gets a rectangular black mesh. As do the air inlets placed lower down on either side of the grille, but these details on the production spec model may vary. Both test cars wear black alloy wheels whose design is similar to the ones spotted on a 2018 Audi Q8 test mule back in August.

Auto China's report also carries interior shots published online showing the dashboard layout. The Audi Q8 has a design that appears to be an amalgamation of the Audi Q7 and Audi A8. The instrument cluster seems like an analogue unit. However, the production spec Q8 will carry Audi's Virtual Cockpit fully digital setup.

2018 Audi Q8 spotted up close in China front view — The 2018 Audi A8's wide Singleframe grille will make an appearance on the 2018 Audi Q8 as well as the company's future products.

The SUV will be a strict 5-seater and is based on the same MLB platform that underpins the Audi Q7, Bentley Bentayga, and the upcoming Lamborghini Urus. Power will come from a 3.0 L Turbo V6 petrol and a 4.0 L V8 diesel. An RS variant of the Q8 based on the Audi Q8 Sport concept will join the lineup a later stage. Rivals of the Audi Q8 will include the Jaguar F-Pace and Range Rover Velar.

[source - Autohome]