Audi India has dropped teasers of the upcoming 2023 Q8 e-tron electric SUV and Sportback, which is expected to launch in a few weeks. The 2023 Audi Q8 e-tron is a comprehensive update to the e-tron SUV that not only includes cosmetic and functional changes, but also adds “Q8” to its name. The updated Q8 e-tron made its world premiere last November.
Visually, the Audi Q8 e-tron features a new two-tone trapezoidal grille with a new 2D Audi logo. It also has a redesigned front bumper and revised LED headlight styling. The rear remains largely similar, save for revised taillights and a bumper. The B-pillar of the new Q8 e-tron also bears the word “Audi”, which further adds a sense of luxury. The electric SUV also gets new alloy wheels. The design upgrade also reduces the Q8 e-tron’s drag coefficient from 0.28 to 0.27, and the Sportback’s drag coefficient from 0.26 to 0.24.
Also read: Audi Q8 e-tron rolls off assembly line, will sit atop electric SUV pyramid
Audi Q8 e-tron Sportback: What’s new
There are also improvements to the powertrain and range. Internationally, the Audi Q8 e-tron is offered in three options: 50, 55 and top-spec SQ8. The Q8 e-tron 55 version has a range of 582 kilometers on a single charge, up from 484 kilometers on the previous version. The Sportback now has a range of 600 kilometers on a single charge. That’s because both cars now feature larger batteries with a capacity of 95 kWh instead of the previous 64 kWh pack. The top-spec SQ8 has a range of 513 kilometers and a peak torque of 973 Nm. However, Audi India may only bring the 50 and 55 models to the market. Charging time is estimated to be approximately 9 hours using an 11 kW charger.
Other upgrades include a panoramic sunroof, optional four-zone climate control, more components made from recycled materials in the cabin, and more. Two screens for the infotainment system and climate control will continue to adorn the center console, as will the virtual cockpit system. The MMI unit will be updated on the latest version of the SUV. Audi has also recalibrated and tuned the chassis control system for more dynamic handling, while the Q8 e-tron will now come with air suspension for better ride quality.
It is expected that the price of the new Audi Q8 e-tron will also increase when it arrives. The electric SUV and Sportback will compete with the Jaguar I-Pace, BMW iX and others.
First published date: Jul 8, 2023 at 12:34pm EST
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