Having recently transitioned the E-Tron to the Q8 family, Audi is preparing a mid-cycle update for the conventionally powered version. Ingolstadt’s flagship SUV has now been seen up close and personal while resting in the parking lot between two testing sessions. Judging from the aggressive front bumper design, red brake calipers, and the “S” logo embroidered on the front seats covered in leather, it seems that the S Line specifications are more expensive.
It’s safe to say that Audi designers won’t be swayed by the Q8 facelift as the prototype has the usual changes. In addition to updated front and rear LED lights, the luxury SUV features a new pattern for the single frame grille with many interlocking U-shaped elements. We also note the reshaped air intakes and a noticeably higher lower grille with vertical bars.
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Riding on 21-inch wheels, the 2024 Q8 has fresh graphics for taillights. Due to the rotating camouflage applied to the tailgate, Audi covered up the wide light bar which we hope will continue with the facelifted version. The pseudo-diffuser appears to have more fins than before and is flanked by a pair of redesigned black exhaust tips that appear wider and slimmer.
The premium Ingolstadt-based brand hasn’t bothered to hide its interior, but that doesn’t mean the Q8’s luxury cabin will carry over untouched. Changes to upholstery and trim options could be a menu to spice up the swoopy SUV as it prepares to battle the upcoming facelift for the BMW X6 and Mercedes GLE Coupe.
We’re expecting the wrapper out later this year when Audi might be able to introduce a revised high-performance Q8 RS as well. Even though this swanky SUV now shares the same name as the all-electric Q8 E-Tron, they weren’t built in the same factory. The ICE model is assembled in Bratislava (Slovakia) while the EV is produced in Brussels (Belgium) where the Q8 E-Tron Sportback is also built.
