New Audi Q8: small changes to give it a fresh look

Taking advantage of the Munich Motor Show, Audi has just unveiled the latest update to one of its most popular SUVs, the Q8, which has received numerous interesting changes to its styling and technology, giving it a slight facelift after four years on sale in the Spanish market.

Starting with its design, the new Q8 does not introduce major changes; however, the new Singleframe grille with its octagonal shape, the bumpers with redesigned air intakes and L-shaped trim on models equipped with the S line package give the new Q8 a slightly refreshed and more attractive appearance.

Whether equipped with the S line finish or if we opt for the SQ8, the silver-coloured cooling trim and grille surround act as a clear distinguishing feature, showing that this is not a base Q8 and bringing out the sportier side of this large SUV.

Advanced lighting system

Turning to its front lighting, the new Audi Q8’s light units feature HD Matrix LED and laser light technology. In addition, they also debut a new daytime light signature that perfectly complements the newly designed elements already mentioned.

Moving to the rear and continuing with the lighting, the new Q8 features digital OLED rear lights for the first time. This element, together with the gloss black trim that connects both tail lights, emphasises the width of the model’s rear.

The latest elements of the new design language

As is already the case with the German brand’s latest launches, the Q8 no longer has the four rings in chrome; instead, it is finished in white and black with a two-dimensional look. However, if the black plus optics package is fitted, the white is replaced by dark grey.

In addition to the colours already available in the new Q8’s palette, Audi has added Sakhir Gold, Ascari Blue and Chili Red, and, as the icing on the cake, four new wheel designs, with sizes ranging from 21 inches to 23 inches.

New app store in the infotainment system

As far as technology is concerned, Audi has also wanted its new Q8 to expand the range of available applications, allowing passengers to use third-party apps such as Spotify or Amazon Music, thanks to the integration of a new online store with a wide catalogue of available applications.

Regarding the mechanical specifications, the entry-level new Q8 (45 TDI quattro) features a three-litre diesel engine producing 170 kW (231 CV) and 500 Nm of torque. Above this engine is the 50 TDI quattro, a version that increases the output of the 3.0-litre unit to 210 kW (286 CV) and 600 Nm of torque. Finally, the most performance-oriented version of the conventional Q8 is the 55 TFSI, which incorporates a turbocharged six-cylinder 3.0-litre engine delivering 250 kW (340 CV) and 500 Nm of torque. All variants feature a 48V mild-hybrid system.

The SQ8 engine and prices for Spain

To conclude the mechanical section, the engine fitted in the SQ8 TFSI is a 4.0-litre V8 with an output of 373 kW (507 CV) and 770 Nm of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 250 km/h.

Prices in Spain for the Q8 start at 98,495 euros for the S Line 45 TDI, from 101,995 euros for the S line 50 TDI and from 102,995 euros for the S line 55 TFSI. The price for the SQ8 TFSI starts at 131,995 euros.

Technical specifications of this car

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