The 2017 Detroit Auto Show has seen Audi debut a near production-ready concept for its new entrant into the luxury SUV class – the Q8 – which will come to market in 2018.

The Q8 concept plug-in hybrid features an electric motor working with a 333PS 3.0 TFSI to produce an overall system output of 330 kW and 700Nm of torque, whilst returning up to 122mpg with CO2 emissions of 52g/km. Equipped with quattro permanent all-wheel drive, it accelerates from 0 to 62mph in 5.4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 155mph. The lithium-ion battery located in the rear consists of 104 prismatic cells. With a capacity of 17.9 kWh, it enables an electric range of 37 miles, and the total range with the TFSI engine is up to 621 miles. A full charge with 7.2 kW output takes about two and a half hours.

At 5.02 metres long, with a wheelbase of three metres, Audi says the Q8 concept will tap into a new segment for the brand by offering an ‘elegant alternative to the classic design of the full-size class’. It is designed to transport four adults and their large suitcases, which can be accommodated in the 630-litre boot.

The colours and materials in the Audi Q8 concept have been chosen to provide a cool atmosphere with brightness increasing gradually from the headlining to the centre console in graduated shades of grey from steel grey to pastel silver. The seats are covered in a combination of Fine Nappa leather and Nubuk leather, both in pastel silver, while the head restraints are wrapped with a structured textile in a similar colour. 

The interior architecture of the Audi Q8 concept merges with a new control and display concept. Information and commands are passed primarily through touch displays augmented by the Audi virtual cockpit and a contact analogue head-up display. All displays feature a new “digital design” that concentrates systematically on the most important things. 

“The Q8 concept is an Audi in peak form. It demonstrates the strengths of our brand in both technology and design while providing a glimpse at a future full-size, production SUV,” said Dietmar Voggenreiter, Member of the Board of Management for Sales and Marketing at AUDI AG.