Range-topping Audi Q8 SUV confirmed for 2019

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Audi has revealed at its Annual General Meeting that an Audi Q8 SUV will launch in 2019, as well as an electric Q6 in 2018 and a Q1 in 2016.

Audi has made it clear it sees a big future in SUV sales, and that’s been underlined at their Annual General Meeting with confirmation that a range-topping Audi Q8 SUV will debut in 2019, as well as an electric Audi Q6 the year before and an entry-level Audi Q1 in 2016.

The Audi Q8 is aiming to extend Audi’s appeal in markets like the US, China and the Middle East, with a big SUV with more dynamic styling than the boxy Q7 – probably heavily influenced by the recent Audi Prologue Allroad Concept – and will, in effect, be a high-riding A8.

That will mean a range of petrol, diesel and hybrid engines – including a top end 4.0 litre V8 turbo – wrapped up in a body with a more coupe profile and taking aim at the Range Rover and Mercedes GL, and underpinned by VW’s MLB platform that will underpin VW’s top-end SUVs like the Bentley Bentayga and Porsche Cayenne. It should also be relatively light thanks to extensive use of aluminium.

Sooner than the Q8, Audi will launch their electric SUV – almost certainly badged Q6 and confirmed for production in 2018 earlier this year – as well as an entry-level Audi Q1 which will arrive in 2016.

The future for Audi certainly looks to be heavily biased towards SUVs – of all shapes and sizes.