Audi’s Q8 is approaching the halfway level in its life cycle and in typical style the car shall be given an replace.

Prototypes for up to date variations of the common Q8 have been noticed for over a 12 months however now now we have our first have a look at a prototype for the high-performance RS Q8 developed by Audi Sport. Prototypes for the mid-range SQ8 are additionally out and about.

We all know this newest prototype is for the RS Q8 on account of its big air intakes within the entrance fascia, upsized brakes and wheels, and the pair of oval exhaust suggestions on the rear—a signature trait of gas-powered autos bearing the RS badge.

The prototype suggests solely minimal modifications, at the very least to the skin of the RS Q8. There is a new grille design, a revised rear fascia, and tweaks to the sunshine signatures at each ends. Curiously, there is a yellow warning sticker seen on the window of the motive force’s door. This usually signifies the prototype options some type of heavy electrification, i.e. both plug-in hybrid or full-electric energy.

2024 Audi RS Q8 facelift spy photographs – Picture credit score: Baldauf

The RS Q8 is at present powered by a turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 rated at 591 hp. Nonetheless, the identical V-8 is paired with plug-in hybrid techniques in autos from different Volkswagen Group manufacturers, together with the associated Porsche Cayenne. Within the Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid grade, the V-8 plug-in hybrid setup is nice for 680 hp.

The plug-in hybrid setup is about to be dropped into the Lamborghini Urus, which just like the Cayenne is a detailed relative of the Q8, and it is attainable we’ll additionally see it within the up to date RS Q8.

The up to date Q8 vary is at present anticipated to reach early subsequent 12 months as a 2024 mannequin. Among the tweaks Audi is making are anticipated to raised mirror components discovered on the E-Tron electrical SUV, which was up to date for 2024 and rebranded the Q8 E-Tron within the course of.

There have been rumors Audi might drop all gas-powered Q8s within the U.S. to deal with the Q8 E-Tron electrical variant, although Audi is quiet on the matter. Finally, the entire Q8 vary will go the full-electric route as Audi plans to stop launching autos with internal-combustion engines after 2026.