Partially camouflaged Audi Q8 prototypes have been spotted testing, pointing to a refresh coming for the Audi SUV in the not too distant future.
The prototypes sport a revised grille up front and new internals for the headlights. The front fascia is also a new design, featuring a more triangular shape for the side intakes compared to the current model. It isn't clear what changes are present at the rear, but a revised design for the taillights is likely.
The design changes are expected to better reflect elements found on the E-Tron electric SUV which itself was updated last year and rebranded as the Q8 E-Tron in the process. The Q8 E-Tron is available for the 2024 model year.
The updated Q8 is also expected to be available for the 2024 model year, meaning a reveal later this year is likely. It's possible the Q8 will also receive a new name following its update. An updated version of the related Q7 SUV is also coming.
It isn't clear what updates, if any, are planned for the powertrains. The current Q8, which arrived in 2018 as a 2019 model, is offered in the U.S. with a turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 in regular guise and a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 in the sporty SQ8 and RS Q8 guises. Diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains are also available in some markets.
With Audi planning to launch its last gas-powered vehicle in 2026, this will likely be the final version of the Q8 still with gas engines. Expect a redesigned model later this decade offered exclusively with electric power.
