Effectively a detuned version of the oil burner that debuted in the coupe-esque crossover in June last year, the 3.0-litre V6 mill carries the 45 TDI moniker and also comes with a 48-volt electric motor for a mild-hybrid setup that produces 170kW/500Nm.
Joining the 50 TDI that makes 210kW/600Nm as well as the petrol-fuelled 55 TFSI whose 3.0-litre V6 punches out 330kW/700Nm, the 45 TDI also takes over as the entry-level Q8 sold on the Old Continent, with the drive being routed to all four wheels via an eight-speed Tiptronic gearbox.
Able to accelerate from 0-100km/h in 7.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 244km/h, compared to the 55 TDI’s 6.3 seconds and limited top speed of 250km/h with the 55 TFSI featuring the same v-max but getting to 100km/h in 5.9 seconds, the 45 TDI also brings the Q8’s starting price down from €76 300 (R1 221 259 to €73 300 (R1 173 241).
At present, Audi South Africa is still to announce a local launch date as well as final specification.
