That is the 2024 Audi e-tron Q8 version Dakar, and also you’re most likely pondering what I used to be after I first laid eyes on it: “cool sticker pack, wheels and roof rack… all present and no go”. However there’s a purpose I’ve traveled 20 hours to get to the center of the Omani desert, and that’s as a result of this Audi can money the cheques the visible impressions counsel.

I used to be anticipating a mud monitor, a water splash to take fairly splash images in after which an hour or two of lunch earlier than heading to the lodge for a swim. I used to be partly proper, I left the confines of the swanky espresso cease primarily based in a lodge foyer, off the drive manner an onto a dusty monitor. I bought my mind into gear and began to think about the modifications and what I ought to be looking for, listed below are the enhancements that set the version Dakar from the can upon which relies.

The Audi Q8 e-tron version Dakar, modelled on the Q8 superior 55 e-tron quattro, contains a web battery capability of 106 kWh (gross: 114 kWh) and a quattro drivetrain. This technique, geared up with two motors, delivers simply over 400 horsepower in increase mode alongside a torque of 664 Nm. In consequence, the automobile can speed up from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds. In line with the WLTP, its vary is 450 kilometres, and its prime velocity is capped at 200 km/h.

Distinguished from the usual mannequin, this electrical SUV is fitted with Common Grabber AT3 all-terrain tyres and boasts a floor clearance enhanced by 65 millimetres, making it more proficient at navigating unfastened terrains like gravel or snow. Initially, the automobile’s floor clearance stands at 220 millimetres. Nevertheless, at elevated speeds, the automobile lowers itself incrementally – by 15 millimetres at 85 km/h, 17 millimetres at 100 km/h, and 13 millimetres at 120 km/h. This adjustment enhances driving stability at greater velocities by enhancing aerodynamics and vary effectivity. With a entrance strategy angle of 21 levels and a rear strategy angle of 28 levels, the electrical SUV is suitably geared up for gentle off-road challenges. It additionally contains a ramp angle of 19 levels. The air suspension’s management technique has been up to date to cater to the calls for of off-road driving. Moreover, the SUV is able to wading by water as much as 300 mm deep.

Sufficient of the technical particulars, why was I so shocked? Nicely, the images provides you with an thought of simply how succesful a automobile that is, and it was all in achieved in relative consolation. The trip is outstanding, a mix of the revised suspension and the all terrain tyres. It’s no off-road hero to interchange a Land Cruiser or perhaps a Land Rover with, however the complete and difficult take a look at run in southern Oman proved that that is automobile you’ll be able to tackle some very testing terrain in.

When pushed at velocity on unfastened gravel with the ESC & TC off, its propensity to slip supplied actual leisure. In steeper terrains, the automobile stays poised, and the speedy availability of 490lb ft of electrical torque is efficient in swiftly overcoming steep inclines or navigating small boulders. This torque is greater than ample to offset the numerous heft of this 2.5-tonne automobile, powered by a large-capacity battery. However with no under-body safety, I used to be aware of puncturing a battery or two, though in actuality, this was unlikely to occur.

With all Dakars being delivered with a second set of 20-inch wheels with summer season tyres, and with a wholesome worth premium over the usual Q8 e-tron (the Dakar is available in at €120,000), I believe it’s unlikely that you just’ll see a buyer dune bashing or river wading of their version Dakar. The Siam Beige metallic, Mythos Black metallic (simply 99 on this color will likely be obtainable with this Audi Dakar Rally fashion wrap for €10,000), or Magnetic Gray automobiles usually tend to be seen stunting as a one-car household answer, albeit a really cool one.

Having not pushed it on the tarmac, it’s onerous to conclude simply how good the version Dakar is, however I can touch upon simply how spectacular it’s off-road. It exceeded expectations and was genuinely entertaining. I’m undecided precisely who this automobile is for, however it’s a solution to stand out from the gang and personal an EV with a distinction, even when meaning you’re see reaching for you youngsters package luggage from atop the usual with a roof rack.