Electrified V6 engines for the 2019 Audi Q8

ABU DHABI: With efficiency being a big factor for today’s car buyer, manufacturers need to find a balance between performance and efficiency. With this in mind, Audi has released two new V6 engine options for its top dog, the Q8. The engines are available in both petrol and diesel and have a 3.0-litre displacement.

First up is the petrol mill that powers the Q8 55 TSFI. This 3.0-litre V6 mill produces 340 bhp between 5,200-6,400 rpm and a healthy 500 Nm of torque between 1,370-4,500 rpm. This will propel the Q8 from 0-100 kmph in 5.9 seconds and hit an electronically limited top speed of 250 kmph. The diesel 3.0-litre V6 will make its way into the Q8 45 TDI. Power figures stand at 231 bhp and 500 Nm of torque produced between 1,750-3,250 rpm. Top speed of the diesel option stands at 233 kmph while 0-100 kmph is dismissed in 7.1 seconds. For these two engines, power is delivered to all four wheels via an 8-speed tiptronic transmission with the help of the Quattro all-wheel drive system.

Both of these engines are electrified with Audi’s 48-volt mild hybrid system. Going into the details of the hybrid system, it is comprised of a lithium-ion battery and a belt alternator starter (BAS). This unique BAS system can be used to recover up to 12 kW of energy and feed it to the battery. When you are cruising at speeds between 55-160 kmph, the Q8 can coast for up to 40 seconds while the engine is turned off. This occurs when the driver is not pressing the accelerator pedal, step on the gas and the BAS system will start the engine quickly. With all these systems in place, the driver will burn 0.7 litres less fuel per 100 km. The start-stop range commences at 22 kmph.

Coming to the equipment list on the Q8 55 TSFI and Q8 45 TDI, 19-inch alloy wheels are standard wearing 265/55 tires. You also get suspension damper control, Audi virtual cockpit, top infotainment system MMI navigation plus, and Audi drive select dynamic handling system.