Audi’s CEO, Gernot Döllner, has confirmed plans for a new Q8, a sportier take on the Q7.
The Q7 was recently redesigned, and Audi also introduced the all-new Q9.
Recent reports suggested that Audi and Porsche could cut costs by killing off several crossover coupes, including the Q5 Sportback and Q6 e-tron Sportback, as well as the gas-powered Cayenne Coupe.
Döllner’s confirmation of a new Q8 comes as a surprise, given the recent rumors.
According to Döllner, “To my surprise, there was no decision for a successor, but we changed that.”
The new Q8 will follow in the footsteps of its predecessor, based on the Q7.
The Q8 will likely be joined by a new SQ8 with a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine, pumping out 591 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque.
Another RS Q8 is also a possibility, although little is known about it.
It may not be available for several years.
While the exact production timeline for the new Q8 is unclear, it’s likely that Audi will provide more information in the coming months.
For now, fans of the model will have to wait and see how the new Q8 develops.
Döllner took the job in 2023 and changed the fate of the Q8.
They added that the redesigned model will come in the “nearer future.”
The new Q8 will have a sportier shape and a twin-turbo 2.9-liter V6 engine.
The sporty SQ7 can hit 60 mph in 3.7 seconds, with a top speed of 155 mph.
The current RS Q8 has 631 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to hit 60 mph in 3.4 seconds.
Fans of the model will have to wait.
Audi is refining the design and engineering of the model.
The new Q8 will enable the larger three-row crossover to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds, before topping out at 130 mph.
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