The Audi Q8 will be available from the end of October as a plug-in hybrid in two variants: the 55 and 60 TFSI e. This makes the SUV considerably cheaper in the Netherlands. These two powertrains were already available on the Q7, but an improved battery pack will debut in the Q8, which will later also find its way to the other models.
It comes as no surprise that Audi will now also supply the Q8 as a plug-in hybrid. Many of the brand’s models are now equipped with a TFSI e-powertrain. The Q8 is the seventh model to come as a TFSI e. Under the hood is a 3.0 TFSI V6 which is linked to an electric motor integrated in the eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6 delivers 340 hp and 450 Nm of torque in both the Q8 55 TFSI e and the 60 TFSI e. The difference in system power is due to the electric motor. The 55 TFSI e has a total of 381 hp and 600 Nm, while the 60 TFSI e has 462 hp and 700 Nm at its disposal. The battery pack has a capacity of 17.8 kWh, 0.5 kWh more than in the Q7. The 55 TFSI e has a WLTP range of 47 km, the 60 TFSI e is 45 km. In addition, the battery pack has become 40 kg lighter. Incidentally, the Q7 will also get this improved battery on board later.
On the outside, the TFSI e can really only be recognized by the badges and a second ‘tank flap’ for the power supply. The Q8 55 TFSI e sprints to 100 km / h in 5.8 seconds, the 60 TFSI e does that 0.4 seconds faster. Both variants are limited to 240 km / h. The top speed is 135 km / h in the fully electric driving mode. In the area of ​​luggage space, thanks to the battery pack, a concession has to be made. This amounts to 505 liters in the plug-ins, where the conventional Q8 consumes 605 liters. With the rear seat folded down, the difference with 1,625 liters compared to 1,755 liters is even 130 liters. On the other hand, the Q8 has become considerably cheaper. Previously, the Pro Line S 55 TFSI with a starting price of € 123,270 was the entry-level model. However, the Q8 55 TFSI e is already available from € 93,640, so that just saves € 29,630.