Audi has launched two new Q8 models on the global stage; welcome the Q8 55 TFSI e Quattro and Competition 60 TFSI e Quattro, if you can get your mouth around those long names!

Both models are plug-in hybrids, with the 55 TFSI e Quattro getting a V6 TFSI 3.0 petrol engine and 100kW electric motor putting out a collective 280kW for a 0-100km/h sprint of 5.8 seconds. The Competition 60 TFSI e Quattro ups this to 340kW and can cover 0-100km/h in 5.4 seconds.

Both models have a 17.8kwH battery that can provide up to 45km of pure electric range whilst at the same emitting just 65 and 66g/km of C02 respectively.

They also have regenerative braking that can recharge 25kW whilst coasting and 80kW when braking.

We also like the ability to switch between two driving modes “EV” and “Hybrid”. “EV” puts the petrol mode into hybernation whereas “Hybrid” balances between petrol and electric based on the Q8s “predictive operating strategy” calibrating against traffic analysis, gradients and preferred routes.