As the Audi R8 begins the process of being phased out, the Q8 is the company’s newest flagship luxury SUV that in effect will replace the R8. The Q8 is Audi’s answer to the BMW X6 coupe-type SUV launched over 10 years ago. So why has it taken Audi so long to make a direct competitor? Back then, 2008, the SUV market had yet to boom as it is now. When the Audi accountants gave the final go-ahead the Q8 was put into full R&D mode and finally, here it is. The Q8 resides on the same platform shared with the Bentley Bentayga, Lamborghini Urus, Porsche Cayenne and VW Toureg… and the Q7. So the Q8 is styled as a large four-door SUV/coupe, its lower and shorter than a Q7 but wider the centimeters are minimal but in car-language, this means big changes. Some of the exterior styling elements exhibited, in particular, the massive single-frame grille will eventually filter down into future Audi models. Sadly that will never be the case for the outgoing Audi R8. From launch the Q8 will be available with the 50 TDi, the new moniker for the tried and tested 3.0-litre, 282bhp, V6 turbo-diesel. As expected the Q8 will have drive sent to all four wheels and power will be diverted via an 8-speed automatic, both are standard features. A mechanical differential will distribute torque to the front and rear wheels at a ratio of 40:60. Standard tyre sizes start at 21-inches and depending on spec can be raised to a max 22-inch. The 3.0-litre petrol TFSi engine will arrive at a later date. The Q8 will also feature, as standard, the new mild-hybrid system that improves efficiency by allowing the engine to switch off during coasting between 34 and 99mph. The five-link front and rear suspension setup will be complemented by all-wheel steering and adaptive air-suspension as standard. The luggage compartment of the SUV holds 605 litres as a standard, which increases to 1,755 litres with the rear backrests folded down. The tailgate can be opened and closed electrically as standard. In terms of tech, the new Q8 will not introduce any new, groundbreaking toys because that ground has already been broken. So, expect the latest Android and Apple connectivity, the latest generation of active and passive safety features and neat things like the digital instrument binnacle, heads-up display and night-vision. But the Q8’s real standout feature will be its attention to luxury and detail, so expect the highest standard of fit and material finishes. Another standout out feature will be the integration of the new dual touchscreen interface/infotainment system. We think Audi have really nailed the interior design, the dual touchscreen setup is styled like its ready for the future… now. Is it a replacement for the R8? How can you ever replace the Audi R8? The Q8 will go on sale in the UK in July, expect entry-level prices to be expensive.