We haven’t reported on the Audi Q8 in a while, but our sources in Ingolstadt confirm it is still on track. And while styling is a matter of taste?and keep in mind that the above illustration is merely an informed guess on how it could look?we hear that this uplevel SUV is intended to look so sporty and modern as to put the competition to shame. Not to mention the boxy Q7, which currently tops Audi’s SUV lineup.

The Q7, of course, is the vehicle to which the new Q8 is most closely related: Both SUVs share their architectural platform, much of their powertrain portfolio, and most likely the cockpit layout and electronics as well. But while other coupe-like SUVs merely add a sportier roofline?think BMW X6 or Mercedes-Benz GLE coupe?the Audi Q8 will be far more differentiated from the Q7, adding contemporary elements such as slim, full-width taillights and an angular, “fast” C-pillar. The front end will be unique as well, sharing nothing with the headlight and grille assembly of the Q7. Under the hood, the Q8 will offer an array of cutting-edge powertrain options, all of them mated to a ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission and all of them sending power to all four wheels. We expect to see an array of diesel and gasoline V-6 and V-8 engines, and there will be an SQ8 with a V-8 TDI and electric turbocharging. Audi could also launch a Q8 e-tron Quattro, powered by a V-6 TDI and an electric motor, with the capability to drive for up to 3...