Audi Q4 Hybrid Crossover Concept: Sketches Appear Before Beijing ShowAudi Q4 Hybrid Crossover Concept: Sketches Appear Before Beijing Show

The market for crossover vehicles grows with every passing year, so it’s surprising that few automakers have offered the vehicles with hybrid or plug-in powertrains up until now.
One that could is Audi’s Q4 crossover, should a production version of the Beijing-bound concept appear in the next few years.
Audi isn’t one to shy away from a niche and the Q4, appearing at the Beijing Auto Show later this month, is designed to capitalize on the latest trend for sporty coupe-inspired crossovers.
The usual cues are there–a raised ride height but lowered roof line and wide, prominent arches.
While Audi has only released sketches so far, many of its styling features echo the recently-launched third-generation Audi TT. In terms of size, its 14.4-foot length and 6-foot width are similar to the Audi Q3–a small crossover not sold in the U.S.
Inside, the Audi TT similarities continue. The dashboard design is very like that of the new TT, with a simple form, TFT-screen instrument cluster and minimalist design.
Unlike the TT though, the Q4 is a four-seat vehicle (the TT is a 2+2 at best), the rear two folding to increase the car’s luggage capacity.
Under the hood, the Q4 Concept is the latest Audi to feature a plug-in hybrid drivetrain.
This comprises a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine mounted transversely, an electric motor integrated with the car’s dual-clutch transmission, and an extra electric motor on the rear axle for all-wheel drive capabilities.
Power and torque figures–and fuel consumption or all-electric range numbers–have not yet been revealed.
However, the drivetrain sounds very similar to that of the Audi Allroad Shooting Brake concept revealed at Detroit–a car that developed over 400 horsepower, 479 pounds-feet of torque and up to 31 miles on its 8.8 kWh lithium-ion battery.
The 2014 Beijing International Automotive Exhibition runs from April 20-24.
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