The Audi Q8 will remain part of the automaker’s lineup, according to Audi CEO Gernot Döllner, who confirmed that a successor is in development. Speaking with Edmunds, Döllner said the decision to continue the luxury SUV was made after he joined the company in September 2023, adding that the next-generation model is expected to arrive in the “nearer future.”
Audi Confirms Future of the Q8
German automakers have long been known for expanding their SUV lineups into increasingly specialized segments. With the three-row Audi Q7 and the more luxurious Audi Q9 already serving different buyers, the future of the coupe-inspired Audi Q8 had been uncertain.
That uncertainty has now been addressed. Edmunds reported that Audi CEO Gernot Döllner said he was surprised to discover there was “no decision” regarding a Q8 successor when he joined the automaker in September 2023. He said he and his team have since changed that decision.
Döllner also revealed that although prototype versions of the next-generation Q8 have not yet been photographed during testing, the model is scheduled to arrive in the “nearer future.”
Next-Generation Audi Q8 Expected Before the End of the Decade
While Audi did not announce a specific launch date, Döllner’s comments indicate the new Audi Q8 is expected before the end of the decade, with 2028 viewed as the likely arrival timeframe.
It remains unclear whether the next Q8 will adopt the angular design language seen on the Concept C and the Nuvolari supercar. However, refreshed and upcoming Audi models are expected to gradually introduce those styling elements.
The next-generation Q8 is expected to continue serving as the sportier alternative to the Audi Q7, trading some passenger space for a more dynamic appearance.
Performance Variants Could Continue
With the Audi Q9 already offering a performance-focused SQ9 variant, a new SQ8 is also considered highly likely.
Because the Q8 shares its platform with high-performance luxury SUVs such as the Porsche Cayenne and Lamborghini Urus, a new version of the high-performance RS Q8 may also be introduced.
What the Decision Means for Audi
The decision to continue the Audi Q8 comes despite several lineup changes. The A8 sedan has been discontinued, the A5 coupe is no longer offered, and Audi has been facing increased competition from BMW. During the first quarter of 2026, Q8 sales declined by 25 percent.
Despite serving a relatively specialized segment, the decision suggests Audi considers the Q8 an important and profitable part of its portfolio.
The upcoming model is expected to remain closely related to the current version, with V6 and V8 engines expected to continue alongside updated styling and newer technology. That approach could help keep development and production costs under control.
The report also noted that an all-new generation beyond the end of the decade could ultimately be skipped if sales do not improve following the arrival of the updated model.
