It was in June last year when Audi took the wraps off the Q8 in China. The following month saw the carmaker reveal details about the Q8’s market launch, its price and the engine specifications. Back then and until now, only the Audi Q8 was available with just one engine – the 50 TDI. It is a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel mill that produces 286PS/600Nm and comes coupled to a 48-volt mild-hybrid system which can provide an additional oomph of 16PS in certain circumstances.

Now though, customers will have a broader choice in the engines department. The German carmaker has revealed that two V6 engines have been added to the Q8’s portfolio. The first is tagged as the 55 TFSI. It has a displacement of 3.0 litres and produces 340PS of power and 500Nm of torque. Audi claims that with this engine under the bonnet, the Q8 can complete the 0-100kmph sprint in 5.9 seconds and reach an electronically limited top speed of 250kmph.

The second one wears the 45 TDI badge. The 3.0-litre, turbo-diesel engine pumps out 231PS of power and 500Nm of torque. Predictably, this one is a tad slower to accelerate when compared to the 55 TFSI mill. The diesel can help the Audi Q8 complete the run to 100kmph from a standstill in 7.1 seconds and claim a top speed of 233kmph. Both engines come mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel-drive system.

Like the 50 TDI, both V6 engines also get the advantages of a mild-hybrid system. Not only does it deliver the same extra oomph when required but also brings a couple of pluses to the overall package. Audi claims that at speeds between 55 and 160kmph, the Q8 can coast for up to 40 seconds when the driver lets off the accelerator, and the engine switches off. Because of that, the mild-hybrid system can reduce consumption by up to 0.7 litres every 100km.

Pricing? The Audi Q8 55 TFSI is priced at 76,300 euros (approximately Rs 61.73 lakh at current exchange rates). With the 45 TDI engine under the bonnet, the Audi Q8 wears a price tag of 73,300 euros (approximately Rs 59.31 lakh at current exchange rates). Soon, we won’t have to convert any other currency into INR for the Audi Q8 as the company will be launching it on our shores this year. Expect Audi to offer the 50 TDI and the 55 TFSI engines in India.