LICENSED TO THRILL

THE AUDI Q8 IS ONE STEALTHY PIECE OF WORK

- Meraj Shah

Think James Bond at a blacktie affair: sophisticated, dandy, charming but with just enough subtle menace to remind everyone that he could throw a punch if he had to. And when he leaves, Bond drives off in a car that looks like it could slip through the valet's grip as nonchalantly as it would conquer a mountain pass. That car, if you've conjured one in your mind's eye, would be the Audi Q8.

It's a flattering personification, no question. But the Q8 makes a strong case with its contrarian virtues: a nimble grand tourer masquerading as an SUV, it sits tall, but feels taut and balanced like a sports car once you get going. It proceeds in very civilized fashion: quiet, non-intrusive; the engine humming along discreetly. But when you call upon it-say, for a quick overtake on a winding country road-it drops this sophisticated facade and shows its true strength.