What’s going on?
Unfortunately, the legendary Lexus 4.6L V8 is a thing of the past. In its place is the world’s first twin-engine Toyota and Lexus V6 with 415 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque. Combined with a 10-speed automatic transmission, a 0-60 result is just 4.5 seconds for a rear-wheel drive model.
What’s cool about it?
Usually with crossovers there is not much in the form of “cool”. But the Audi Q8 has some sleek technology with its power and transmission.
The Q8 helps Audi set the stage for its future crossover line. This means that the Audi Q8 Concept is designed to compete with the likes of the Mercedes-Benz GLS and the impending and hotly anticipated BMW full-size crossover. In addition, the Q8 has a host of new automotive technologies, hinting at Audi’s intention to end the analog controls and instrument cluster for large digital touch screens.
What powers it?
The plug-in Audi Q8 Concept with a hybrid powerplant and transmission is also its hallmark. Movement begins with a traditional internal combustion engine. This engine is Audi’s newest 3.0-liter V6 supercharged TFSI with 333 horsepower. and torque of 368 Nm. The electric motor then helps the V6 deliver an extra 100 kW. The result is 0-62 miles per hour in just 5.4 seconds, and top speed is limited to 155 miles per hour. Due to hybridization, fuel economy is also predictably high with a Q8 rated to return the equivalent of 102.3 mpg.
The electric motor receives juice from a newly developed, specially designed lithium-ion battery with 104 prismatic cells. Capable of developing 17.9 kWh of power, it allows the Q8 to drive at full electric power up to 37.3 miles. The combined flight range for the Q8 with gasoline and electric engines is about 1,000 kilometers or 621.4 miles.
-Jack Wilson
