Audi Q8 concept debuts at the 2017 Detroit Motor Show

Production-spec model to arrive in 2018.

Audi has unveiled a new SUV concept at the 2017 NAIAS in Detroit, christened as the Audi Q8 concept. It previews a new SUV coupe that will slot above the Audi Q7, and rival the BMW X6 and Mercedes GLE Coupe.

The Q8 Concept showcases the brand's boldest iteration of the latest design language penned by chief designer Marc Lichte. The highlights of the Q8's exterior is the bold octagonal grille with thick vertical slats directly flanked by sleek headlamps with an 'X' motif, frameless doors, a full-length taillight design to highlight its width as well as flared fenders at all four wheels and raked C-pillar inspired by the Audi Quattro rally car. The show car is finished in a 'Bombay Blue' exterior color.

As with most concepts of today, the interior has been simplified by replacing every button with touch-sensitive buttons on a screen. It is claimed to portend the interior of the next gen Audi A8 as well as future premium models. Audi plans to introduce Level 4 Autonomy in the Q8 in 2018, which is the most advanced type of autonomous driving in the works.

Also Read: 2017 Audi Q5 spied testing undisguised near Mumbai

The Q8 concept is powered by a 333-hp 3.0-liter V-6 turbo engine combined with a 134-hp motor housed within an eight-speed automatic transmission. It is capable of sprinting from 0-100 km/h in 5.4 seconds, before hitting a limited top speed of 250 km/h. A rear-mounted lithium-ion battery pack powering the electric motor can offer 60 km of all-electric driving range and can be charged in approximately two and a half hours.