The 2019 Audi Q8 is already tested. But, it is not coming yet to the USA. Fans overseas will have to wait for a while to jump into the new flagship crossover from the German carmaker. There are a lot of pros and cons compared to its sibling Q7, as well as main rivals – BMW X7, Porsche Cayenne, and Mercedes-Benz GLE Class. The fresh look is the main advantage for the Q8.
Release date in the USA is still unknown, as well as the price. We can be sure not the same model is coming to two continents. Interior and equipment will be pretty much the same. But, US crossovers will use different engines, which means probably better performance. Event the diesel unit is under consideration, although Audi is under investigation with false emission reports. Finally, the hybrid variant of the 2019 Audi Q8 could bring excitement to the mid-size SUV segment.
2019 Audi Q8 vs Competition
The 2019 Audi Q8 is a new vehicle. Fans and enthusiasts will definitely look for it and try to find out as much as possible. The German carmaker always delivers quality and reliable vehicles, and there are no doubts Q8 is going to be one of these.
But, the main question is “was the Q8 really necessary to Audi”. They have Q7 already with similar dimensions and power. The new SUV adds more horses but cuts the third-row option. Even the two-row models can’t offer as much cargo space as the Q7. On the other hand, passengers will have more room for legs.
One of the strengths of 2019 Audi Q8 will be its styling. Aesthetic look provides better aerodynamics and it is eye-catching at the same time. We can say it is more stylish than the Porsche Cayenne. On the other hand, one of the main battles we will see in Germany and all across the world will be 2019 Audi Q8 vs BMW X7. As always, two carmakers from the same country are the each other’s fiercest rival.
New 2019 Audi Q8 SUV – Engine and Specs
The new crossover will add some power to the existing lineup. Well, the 2019 Audi Q8 will borrow the engine from its sibling, but outputs will make it fresh and exciting. It won’t come into the market with 2.0-liter engine as Q7. Engineers opted for the bigger V-6. For older SUV, the drivetrain produces 333 hp, while the Q8 gets extra 2 horses. Also, the powertrain brings 330 lb-ft of torque good for towing capacity of at least 7,500 pounds. The power comes through an eight-speed automatic transmission, the same one we can find in Q7.
2019 Audi Q8 Hybrid
According to the first information, the 2019 Audi Q8 Hybrid will be available shortly after the premiere of the regular model. The same sources are telling it is a mild setup with 48V battery and all-wheel drive. The lithium-ion battery will improve the performance of the only engine solution for Q8. Besides extra power and torque, the SUV will gain better fuel economy.
2019 Audi Q8 RS
Audi is working fast upon the release of special versions of the crossover. This time, we caught testing the 2019 Audi Q8 RS model. First images appeared some while ago. But, the latest spy shots are unveiling a progress. The development pace of the RS model is very fast, and now we see the SUV with some production-ready parts and without heavy camo. However, there is still room for improvements. Also, we need to find out more details about the engine and specs.
It is likely that 4.0-liter twin-turbo V- is the favorite to take a position under the hood. The drivetrain will aim 500 hp output, but it can also take on Lamborghini Urus and its 650 hp.
Many visual details are unique. Not only that exterior is getting a treatment via, for example, bigger wheels, but also the cabin. Dashboard with a lot of touchscreens, leather seats, premium audio, are just a few of many additions.
2019 Audi Q8 Interior and Exterior
Outside and inside, the 2019 Audi Q8 will be very exciting. It is shorter than the Q7. Lowe as well. Everything results with 10 cubic feet less of cargo space when we compare two-row models. Well, the Q8 is not offering the third row. It is a five-seat crossover only.
Nevertheless, all passengers in the vehicle will have plenty of space. Also, its distinctive look will be pleasant. Premium details will make this SUV a tough competitor, even for the most luxurious rivals. New infotainment system puts Audi ahead of its competitors. However, fans won’t wait for too long for responses from BMW, Mercedes, and Porsche. Generally speaking, everything is very similar to Q7, but on the higher level.
Outside, the SUV is sportier than its sibling. New bumpers and LED lights are making it possible. Also, lower roofline will make it more aesthetic. Skid plates are different, as well as taillights. On the back, we can spot the exhaust tips with an oval shape. The RS model will improve it even further, with larger bumper and air intakes.
2019 Audi Q8 Release Date
The 2019 Audi Q8 is coming. However, the date of the premiere in the US is still uncertain. However, fans in this part of the world are not going to wait for all of this to become official. By the end of 2018, the crossover will be out.
Price
Experts are pretty sure that the 2019 Audi Q8 will come with the price of $60,000. There are no a lot of options for this model. The major upgrade comes with the RS version. It will boost the price to $80,000. Before it heads into salons, the 2019 Q8 could suffer few more updates.
