The Audi Q8, the SUV flagship of the brand, is up for a mid-lifecycle update as proven by a camouflaged prototype caught by spy photographers. The refreshed model will be offered alongside the fully electric e-tron that recently got facelifted and renamed to Q8 e-tron. The silver prototype was partially uncovered since Audi engineers only bothered to camouflage the parts that will most likely change with the facelift, including bumpers, fenders, side sills, tailgate, and lighting units. The biggest change compared to the current Audi Q8 is probably the LED headlight and taillight graphics which are in line for a refresh.
Other notable changes at the front include
the honeycomb pattern on the Singleframe grille, which now features larger
holes, and the redesigned bumper intakes that look more like the Q8 e-tron. The
surfacing on the front and rear fenders appear to be identical under the
camouflage, but maybe Audi hides some sort of trim changes. The same applies to
the tail with the exception of the lighting units and possibly the rear
diffuser.
We expect Audi to freshen up the interior
with new upholstery options and upgraded infotainment/connectivity features,
which will keep the Q8 on par with its rivals in the premium SUV segment. The
competition includes the soon-to-be-facelifted BMW X6, the Mercedes GLE Coupe,
and the Porsche Cayenne Coupe stablemate that is getting a new generation soon.
A few updates under the bonnet will ensure that the engine options remain
compatible with the strict emission regulations. Once more, emphasis will be
given to mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid setups, with the SQ8 and RS Q8
performance-focused models most likely carried over in the facelifted range. As
with the current model, there won’t be a fully electric trim since this role is
already covered by the standalone Q8 e-tron.
The debut of the facelifted Audi Q8 is
expected in 2024, six years after its original debut in 2018. Interestingly, an
all-new second generation of the Q8 is rumored for 2026, when Audi will launch
its last new ICE-powered model before going EV-only by 2033.
