Audi Q8

The new Audi RS Q8 has been photographed around the Nurburgring Nordschleife. While earlier prototypes were cloaked by swirly disguise tape, this latest vehicle went out in public with an Audi Sport-inspired livery package. The red and black scheme does very little to hide the car's styling upgrades. Indeed some of the flourishes only make the changes stand out more than they normally would.

Audi has launched a new 45 TDI variant of its Q8 in Europe this week, joining the 50 TDI and 55 TFSI in the overseas line-up. The 45 TDI is essentially a de-tuned version of the 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel with the same 48V mild-hybrid technology offered in the 50 TDI, making 170kW and 500Nm in this application. Peak torque is available from 1370-4500rpm. According to the four-ringed marque, the Q8 45 TDI will do 0-100km/h in 7.1 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 233km/h.

Photographers have snapped the first images of the updated Audi Q7 this week, giving us a preview of what to expect from the seven-seat SUV's mid-life refresh. The most significant changes appear to be up the front, with this prototype sporting a revised grille, headlight and bumper design that looks quite similar to that of the related Q8.