Powering the Audi Q8 in the continuing “55 TFSI” guise is the familiar 3.0-litre turbo-petrol V6. It continues to deliver 340 hp and 500 Nm. An eight-speed automatic handles power delivery to the trademark quattro all-wheel drive system. Those numbers may seem like plenty but the Q8 weighs 2.1 tonnes and while it does have plenty of top-end oomph, the low-down grunt can leave one wanting. European markets also get a V6 TFSI e quattro plug-in hybrid model with a lot more torque and efficiency and a pair of diesels with up to 600 Nm. But this is India and we get neither.
There are drive modes, however, and switching between “efficient” and “dynamic” throws a few surprises my way. The latter not just feels sharper and more urgent but also changes the engine soundtrack, with a more raucous exhaust note accompanying the high revs. This mode also holds the gear to get the most acceleration and response but also increases its thirst, mind you. I saw a best of close to nine km/litre on the highway and about 5.5 km/litre in the city. The huge 85-litre tank would still give it a comfortable range of 550 kilometres or so, depending on driving style.
The Audi Q8’s behaviour is definitely commendable, especially for a car of this size and stature. The standard quattro all-wheel drive and suspension with damper control produce a pleasant and rather enjoyable driving experience. The excitement, however, seems toned down. This is the V6 and it is meant to appeal to a more mature audience. For the rest of us, there are other choices, prominently the RS Q8.
The Audi Q8 55 TFSI quattro costs Rs 1.17 crore plus options, taxes, insurance, accessories, and what have you. It has interior quality, refinement, and space on its side; not to mention the unique Sakhir Gold paint finish that’s also available. However, the excitement and lack of features and equipment for the price may well have you looking elsewhere if what you seek is presence, badge value and technology. Perhaps, Audi could experiment by bringing in the 55 or 60 TFSI e quattro plug-in hybrids, if not the diesels.
Story: Jim Gorde
Photography: Sanjay Raikar
