At the end of 2020, Audi will present a new hybrid version of the Audi Q8 TFSI e. It’s a plug-in hybrid version of a coupe-SUV. The new model will come in a choice of two guises. The ‘standard’ Audi Q8 55 TFSI e Quattro joined by the more powerful Q8 Competition 60 TFSI e Quattro.

Audi said its European models will come standard with a S-line sports body kit, 21-inch alloy wheels, red brake calipers and Matrix LED headlights. Inside, customers get a pair of sports seats, stainless steel pedals and a 10.1-inch touch screen.

Like most plug-in hybrids, the Q8 TFSI e comes with three drive modes – Auto, Hold and Charge. The first automatically manages the powertrain’s use of combustion and electric power; the second saves the battery’s charge level for use later in the journey. The third uses the petrol engine and brake recuperation system to brim the battery on the move.

The Audi 55 TFSI e quattro combines 375 hp and 600 Nm of torque, while the more powerful Audi 60 TFSI e quattro delivers 455 hp and 700 Nm of torque. Both models can reach a maximum of 78 mph in electric mode, and quattro all-wheel drive has not changed compared to models with conventional drive. 55 TFSI e quattro from 0-60 mph accelerates in 5.8 seconds. A much stronger 60 TFSI e from 0-60 mph accelerates in 5.4 seconds. Both models reach a top speed of 150 mph.

The hybrid system contains a 17.8 kWh liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery, which is housed in the trunk. In addition to electric, hybrid and automatic driving mode, the plug-in hybrid Audi Q8 also has a so-called “hold” mode that saves battery for future use, as well as a “charge” mode that charges the battery as much as possible while driving and uses an energy recovery system that can reach up to 80 kW when braking.

Charging the battery takes two and a half hours with a capacity of 7.4 kw.