Audi teases new Q8 SUV ahead of Detroit debut

Audi has released teaser images of its upcoming full-size Q8 SUV, which will make its public debut at the Detroit Motor Show in January.

The firm says many design elements of the Q8 concept hark back to the rally-bred Audi Ur-Quattro of the 1980s, including the "flat but very wide C-post" and the "flared shoulders above the wheel arches." It also bares some resemblance to 2003's Pikes Peak Quattro concept, which later spawned the company's current full-size Q7 SUV.

Auto Express reports the Q8 will receive a full-width tail light cluster similar to the new A7 saloon and features a "unique front light design split in two". It will be based on the same platform as the current Q7 SUV and will "showcase the design direction" of Audi's 2018 vehicles.

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It's likely to rival the Porsche Cayenne and BMW X6, both of which are their brands flagship full-size SUVs, as well as Jaguar's critically acclaimed F-Pace.

Autocar says the new Q8 will be "roughly the same size as the Q7", measuring "5050mm long and 1970mm wide". While it has a 50mm lower roof, the mag adds, it "drops later than its rivals", so boot space should not be compromised.

Considering prices for the Q7 start at around £50,000 and the A8 saloon begins at £60,000, the Q8 will likely come in above them at close to £70,000, says CarBuyer.

More details are expected when the Q8 is officially revealed in Detroit next month.