The brand with the four circles unveils the refreshed Audi Q7 and Q8 plug-in hybrids, featuring updated battery technology and enhanced driving modes, alongside a redesigned exterior. Both models now offer all-wheel steering for heightened safety and comfort, with electromechanical active roll stabilization ensuring dynamic handling.
Pricing starts at 85,500 euros for the Q7 55 TFSI e and 92,900 euros for the Q8 55 TFSI e.
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Enhanced Performance with Larger Battery and More Power
The core of these plug-in hybrids comprises a three-liter six-cylinder Otto engine generating 250 kW (340 PS) output, along with a compact electric motor delivering 130 kW and 460 Nm of torque. A new liquid-cooled lithium battery, housed under the trunk floor, boasts increased capacity and efficiency.
With 17 cells grouped into “stacks,” the battery achieves a maximum capacity of 25.9 kWh (gross; 22 kWh net) and an all-electric range of up to 90 kilometers in urban areas under WLTP EAER City standards.
Both models, featuring the 55 TFSI e quattro, offer a system output of 290 kW (394 PS) and a maximum system torque of 600 Nm. Accelerating to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds, these hybrids provide impressive performance.
Additionally, the 60 TFSI e quattro variant, equipped with a redesigned electric motor, reaches up to 360 kW (490 PS) of system output, enabling a swift acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds.
Advanced Operating Strategy for Maximum Efficiency
The product upgrade introduces flexible operating modes, allowing customers to seamlessly switch between fully electric EV mode and hybrid mode. The EV mode ensures pure battery-powered propulsion, while hybrid mode offers auto and hold settings.
The auto mode employs predictive operating strategies to maximize electric driving, while hold mode maintains the battery charge level. Notably, the battery intelligently recharges above speeds of approximately 65 km/h in charge mode, optimizing efficiency for city driving and stop-and-go traffic.
Innovative Features and Upgraded Equipment Range
The latest iteration of Audi’s Q7 and Q8 plug-in hybrids introduces a range of innovative features and an extensive equipment upgrade, catering to the discerning needs of modern drivers.
Lighting Technology Evolution. Standard high-intensity LED headlights illuminate the road ahead, ensuring optimal visibility in all conditions. For those seeking advanced lighting options, Audi offers Matrix LED headlights as an optional upgrade. These headlights provide enhanced illumination and adaptability, optimizing visibility while minimizing glare for oncoming traffic.
Taking illumination to the next level, the HD Matrix LED headlights with Audi laser light offer an extended beam range, significantly improving visibility at night. This cutting-edge technology ensures safer nighttime driving experiences, allowing drivers to navigate with confidence even in low-light conditions.
Digital Daytime Running Light Signatures. Audi introduces a captivating feature with digital daytime running light signatures, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the Q7 and Q8 plug-in hybrids. These digital signatures offer a customizable touch, allowing users to select from four distinct light signatures via the MMI (Multi-Media Interface). This personalization option adds a unique flair to the vehicles’ exterior design, setting them apart on the road.
OLED Rear Lights with Proximity Indication. For the first time in the plug-in hybrid segment, Audi offers optional OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) rear lights, further elevating the vehicles’ visual appeal and safety features. These digitalized OLED rear lights not only offer striking light signatures but also provide proximity indication in conjunction with the assistance systems. By seamlessly integrating advanced lighting technology, Audi enhances both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the Q7 and Q8.
Upgraded Interior and Equipment Range. In addition to the lighting innovations, the interior of the Q7 and Q8 plug-in hybrids receive significant upgrades, reflecting Audi’s commitment to luxury and comfort. Customers can now choose from nine decorative inlays and three new finishes, allowing for personalized customization of the cabin environment. The upgraded wheel range includes five new designs, ranging from 21” to 23”, enhancing both aesthetics and performance.
Moreover, Audi expands the range of apps and driver assistance systems, providing drivers with cutting-edge technology to enhance their driving experience. The standard equipment package now includes features such as 19” to 21” alloy wheels (depending on the model and equipment package), a rearview camera, park and high beam assist, and the convenience key.
Additionally, the 60 TFSI e quattro variants come standard with the S line exterior and sport package, further enhancing the sporty appeal of these models.
Reliable Handling with Advanced Technology
Audi’s commitment to delivering an unparalleled driving experience extends to the handling and performance of the Q7 and Q8 plug-in hybrids. Through the integration of advanced technology and precision engineering, these vehicles offer a blend of reliability, agility, and comfort on every journey.
Dynamic Suspension Options. The Q7 and Q8 plug-in hybrids come equipped with a range of suspension options, each designed to optimize ride quality and handling characteristics. Standard steel spring suspension with damper control provides a balanced driving experience, ensuring stability and comfort across various road conditions.
For drivers seeking heightened control and adaptability, Audi offers optional electronically controlled air suspension. This advanced suspension system features a continuously adaptive damping system, allowing for automatic adjustment of ride height and damping characteristics based on driving conditions and driver preferences.
Available in both adaptive air suspension and adaptive air suspension sport variants, this option provides a customizable driving experience tailored to individual preferences.
All-Wheel Steering for Enhanced Maneuverability. A notable addition to the Q7 and Q8 plug-in hybrids is the optional all-wheel steering system, a first for this segment. This innovative technology enhances maneuverability and agility, particularly at low speeds and during tight maneuvers.
At low speeds, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the front wheels, reducing the vehicle’s turning radius and improving maneuverability in confined spaces. This feature makes parking and navigating through urban environments effortless, enhancing driver confidence and convenience.
At higher speeds, the rear wheels turn in the same direction as the front wheels, enhancing stability and control during highway driving and cornering. This synchronized steering response ensures a smooth and composed driving experience, even during dynamic maneuvers.
Electromechanical Active Roll Stabilization. Another technological marvel featured in the Q7 and Q8 plug-in hybrids is the electromechanical active roll stabilization (eAWS) system. This innovative system enhances dynamic handling by minimizing body roll and maximizing stability, particularly during cornering and evasive maneuvers.
The eAWS system utilizes compact electric motors coupled to a transmission on both axles. These motors split the stabilizer into two halves, allowing them to work independently during straight-line driving, reducing body movements and improving ride comfort. During spirited driving, the motors synchronize to minimize body roll, ensuring precise steering response and optimal handling characteristics.
Availability and Pricing
The new Audi Q7 and Q8 TFSI e quattro models will be launched in April 2024, with prices starting at 85,500 euros for the Q7 55 TFSI e quattro and 92,900 euros for the Q8 55 TFSI e quattro. The more powerful 60 TFSI e quattro variants are priced at 96,000 euros and 103,200 euros, respectively.
Audi Q7 and Q8 TFSI e quattro: Innovation and Performance
In the ever-evolving landscape of automotive excellence, Audi’s latest offerings, the Q7 and Q8 plug-in hybrids, stand as true testaments to the brand’s unwavering commitment to innovation and performance. With a meticulous blend of advanced technology, dynamic design, and luxurious comfort, these vehicles redefine the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of hybrid mobility.
From the sleek exterior enhancements to the cutting-edge interior features, every aspect of the Q7 and Q8 plug-in hybrids has been meticulously crafted to elevate the driving experience. The integration of innovative lighting technology, including digital daytime running light signatures and OLED rear lights, not only enhances safety but also adds a touch of sophistication to the vehicles’ aesthetic appeal.
Underneath the hood, Audi’s relentless pursuit of excellence is evident in the advanced powertrain and handling technologies. With larger batteries, more power, and longer electric ranges, the Q7 and Q8 plug-in hybrids deliver exhilarating performance while minimizing environmental impact.
The addition of all-wheel steering and electromechanical active roll stabilization further enhances maneuverability and control, ensuring a driving experience that is as exhilarating as it is effortless.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Audi remains at the forefront, pushing the boundaries of what is possible and setting new standards of excellence. With the Q7 and Q8 plug-in hybrids, Audi invites drivers to embrace the future of mobility, where innovation and performance converge to create an unparalleled driving experience.
