Audi’s sleek new SUV
Form an orderly queue for Audi’s new flagship Q8 SUV. Though launched in China in June, it’s now here just in time for the new 68 number plate, and I’ve tried it on our busy and quiet roads.
First impressions are good. It’s sporty, but elegant, with a bold face and lines made sleeker by frameless doors and windows and a coupelike roofline. The Dragon orange metallic paintwork is particularly striking, and it’s nimble with a tight turning circle.
The only engine at launch is a 3-litre V6 TDi Quattro turbodiesel eight-speed automatic, linked to a ‘mild’ electric hybrid system which together develops 286hp and gives plenty of acceleration on demand.
It will go from rest to 62 mph in 6.3 seconds, and has a top speed of 152 mph. Co2 emissions are 178g/ km and average 41.5 mpg under new ‘real world’ economy tests. A more powerful 3-litre 340PS TFSI V6 petrol engine is to follow early next year, along with a more frugal 231PS diesel.
A 12.3 in high- resolution display replaces the traditional instrument cluster. It uses 3D graphics and you can select the ‘classic’ view showing speed, or ‘navigation’ view, where the satnav fills the screen.
There are two trim levels. The S-Line on standard 21in wheels starts from £65,040 and looks the business, or the premium ( from £ 83,040) which has Vorsprung trim, 22-inch wheels, a panoramic glass sunroof and a Bang & olufsen sound system. Inside is high quality, while safety and convenience is helped by 39 driver assistance systems, standard on Vorsprung but at extra cost on S-Line. There’s plenty of space in the boot compartment with a 605-litre — enough luggage for two golf bags — expanding to 1,755 litres with the rear seats down. Adaptive air suspension regulates ride height, which can be raised by up to 50 mm for going off road. In its sights are a host of premium rivals including the BmW X6, mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, maserati Levante and Britain’s range rover Sport.