The demand for crossovers is showing no signs of slowing down. To capitalize on the craze, Audi is planning to expand its range of Q-branded crossovers at a rapid rate. If trademark filings and rumors are to be believed, Audi will launch a Q1, Q4, Q6, and Q9 to fill every possible niche. The automaker has already confirmed the Q4 coupe crossover will launch in 2019 as a more premium alternative to the Q3 to rival the BMW X2, and now our spies have sent us the first spy shots of it in action during testing.

The prototype is covered in camouflage, but it's clear the Q4 combines design elements of the flagship Q8 and the second-generation Q3. Its lower roofline and sloping rear windshield gives the Q4 a more coupe-SUV-style appearance than the Q3, and the front fascia also looks more aggressive.

Audi design boss Andreas Mindt insists the Q4 will be more than just a coupe version of the Q3, however, but it will ride on the same MQB platform as the current Q3. Designers have also confirmed the Q4 will be at least 177.1 inches long so it will be slightly longer than the Q3.

Power is expected to be sourced from a new generation of 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline and diesel units as well as an updated version of Audi's current 2.0-liter turbo-four. The range-topping RS Q4 is expected to get an all-new 2.5-liter five-cylinder gasoline unit with up to 400 hp. The Q4 is also expected to get the e-tron treatment with a plug-in hybrid version offering up to 31 miles of range after the standard Q4 arrives in showrooms sometime next year. Expect Audi to charge a premium over the current Q3, which starts at $32,900.