Audi India has launched the Q8 facelift, with prices starting at Rs 1.17 crore. While the updated SUV remains mechanically unchanged, it gets light cosmetic updates and new features.
The biggest change in the facelifted Q8 is the new HD Matrix LED headlights with laser assistance for the high beam and configurable light signatures. The grille has received subtle updates, with new octagonal apertures and ‘L’-shaped inserts, while the air intakes in the bumper have been reshaped. Although the rear of the vehicle remains largely unchanged from its predecessor, it now includes new digital OLED rear lights with four selectable light designs that work in conjunction with the headlights.
The interiors remain almost identical to the outgoing model, with changes limited to different stitching on the upholstery and new colour schemes. The Q8 will continue to feature Audi’s twin MMI touchscreens, four-zone climate control, a head-up display, and seats that are heated, ventilated, and massaging. It also retains the Bang & Olufsen hi-fi system. Additionally, the facelifted Q8 gets an expanded app store and comes with built-in third-party music apps like Spotify and Amazon Music. The driver assistance systems have also been upgraded.
The India-spec Q8 facelift retains its 3.0-litre V6 turbo-petrol engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system, producing 340hp and 500Nm of torque. As standard, the engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic gearbox that sends power to all four wheels.
At Rs 1.17 crore, the Q8 facelift is Rs 10 lakh costlier than the outgoing model. While it has no direct rivals, the coupe-SUV will serves as an alternative to more traditional SUVs such as the Mercedes-Benz GLE and BMW X5.