Audi Previews Q8 Crossover

Audi AG says its upcoming Q8 crossover vehicle will feature an array of advanced technologies.

The carmaker released a sketch of the vehicle this week ahead of a public unveiling planned for early next month. Sales of the 2019 model are due to start later this year.

The rear-view sketch indicates the fastback production car will carry over the basic styling of the Q8 concept that Audi introduced at the 2017 Detroit auto show. This includes thin taillights, twin tailpipes integrated into the bumper, a raked C-pillar and protruding quarter panels.

The Q8 flagship crossover vehicle will share a platform with the Q7 and be about the same size as that vehicle. Lightweighting techniques comprise an aluminum-intensive body and carbon fiber in select non-load-bearing structures.

A range of V-6 and V-8 engines will be offered, including several diesel mills in Europe. A high-performance RS and two or more hybrid variants also are said to be in the works.

One of the hybrids is expected to be a plug-in model that will share technology with the upcoming Porsche Cayenne plug-in. The system will provide an all-electric range of 31 miles and help boost acceleration.