Geneva Auto Show Resurrects Itself In Qatar, But BYD And Tesla Skip The Show
Audi, a prominent player in this transformation, introduced its high-performance gasoline-powered SUV, the SQ8, during the Qatar edition of the Geneva motor show. This impressive SUV boasts a striking fire-engine red exterior and numerous technological enhancements.
The SQ8, following the footsteps of Audi”s updated electric Q8 E-Tron, displayed subtle design modifications while concealing its potent twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine that delivers nearly 500 horsepower. The exterior design showcases smoother surfacing, larger front air intakes for a more aggressive appearance, and a revamped exhaust system.
Notably, the SQ8 features optional HD Matrix LED headlights with laser high beams at the front, while OLED technology is employed in the taillights. In the UK market, the Audi Q8″s gasoline lineup includes three primary specifications: S Line, Black Edition, and Vorsprung, offering a range of petrol and diesel powertrains. The performance-focused SQ8, available in Black Edition and Vorsprung variants, is priced from around $120,000 and comes standard with bespoke exterior styling, 23-inch alloy wheels, Quattro all-wheel drive, adaptive air sports suspension, and parking assistance.
In contrast, the electric counterpart, the 2024 SQ8 E-Tron, starts at $90,895 (excluding a $1,095 destination charge). It”s worth noting that the SQ8 E-Tron skips the entry-level Premium trim available for the Q8 E-Tron, making it approximately $11,000 more expensive when comparing similar trim levels. The SQ8 Sportback E-Tron begins at $93,695, which is roughly $10,000 higher than the Q8 Sportback E-Tron Premium Plus.
Audi”s future strategy involves offering both traditional gasoline and diesel Q8 and SQ8 models alongside the fully electric Q8 E-Tron and Q8 E-Tron Sportback. The 2024 SQ8 E-Tron is expected to arrive at U.S. dealerships in the fourth quarter of this year, and it”s anticipated that the internal combustion models will follow suit. This move by Audi and the expansion of EVs into regions known for their oil wealth underscore the industry”s shift towards sustainable transportation and the growing importance of electric vehicles in the global automotive market.
Audi”s introduction of the high-performance gasoline-powered SQ8 SUV at the Qatar edition of the Geneva motor show highlights the evolving landscape of the automotive industry, where traditional and electric models coexist. The SQ8, with its powerful V8 engine and impressive technological features, demonstrates Audi”s commitment to offering diverse options for consumers. The simultaneous release of the SQ8 E-Tron electric counterpart signifies the industry”s pivot towards sustainable transportation, underlining the increasing significance of electric vehicles in a world transitioning away from fossil fuels. Audi”s strategy of providing both traditional and electric models reflect the broader trend in the automotive sector, emphasising the need for variety and adaptability to meet the evolving preferences of consumers and address environmental concerns.
