Audi‘s most powerful diesel engine arrives in SA, introducing the SQ7 and SQ8
Audi has recently taken the SUV segment by storm, by launching its all-powerful SQ7 and SQ8 models. These high-performing SUV’s will be offered in a V8 diesel engine, making this the most powerful diesel engine to ever brace the Audi nameplate.
This 4.0-litre V8 engine is set to produce 310kW of power and a tremendous 900 Nm of torque. Audi has claimed that both models can accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. Depending on the equipment, the SQ7 TDI will consume around 8.7 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres while the SQ8 TDI, consumes a sparring 8.3 litres. The SQ7 and SQ8 will come equipped with Audi’s quick-shifting eight-speed tiptronic transmission and will come in permanent all-wheel drive. Audi has also provided both models with an adaptive air suspension which is able to extend the ride height by up to 90mm.
At the front, the SQ7 and SQ8 get featured with double slats in the Singleframe grille with a distinctive three-dimensional blade in the bumper, the side air inlets will get filled with a honeycomb grid. The side mirror housing will come in aluminium while the rear gets its four bulgy tailpipes. Audi has made a black styling package available, which sees exterior parts such as the roof rails, trim strips on side windows, mirrors, and front and rear bumpers all being finished in black paint. In addition to this, the Audi rings at the front and rear, as well as the SQ7 or SQ8 lettering in the radiator grille and on the boot lid will all come in black.
Both models will ride on 21-inch Audi Sport wheels with consumers getting the option to upgrade to a larger 22-inch (for the SQ7) and 23-inch (for the SQ8). Brake discs will be fitted too and will measure around 400 millimetres in diameter at the front axle and 350 millimetres on the rear axle. As expected, S branded red brake callipers on the front axle will come standard for both models. HD Matrix LED headlights with dynamic light design will come standard on the SQ8 and will illuminate the road with maximum brightness and precision in any situation.
Inside the SQ7 and SQ8, the sport seats are upholstered with top-quality Valcona leather with inlays made from matt brushed aluminium. The pedals, the footrest, and the loading sill protector are all made from stainless steel. A standard both models will come with an ambient lighting package, which ranges from 30 different colours.
In terms of infotainment and connectivity, the Audi SQ7 and Audi SQ8 will come equipped with Audi’s state-of-the-art technology. This will include an MMI touch response control system that will integrate two displays and respond with haptic and acoustic feedback to finger inputs. A standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will be available as well as a Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System with 3D sound. Drivers will also be able to enjoy Audi’s virtual cockpit plus with S-specific views which are all controlled via the multifunction steering wheel and serves as the standard display instrument.
Both the Audi SQ7 and SQ8 TDI are officially available for sale in South Africa and are offered in limited numbers
Pricing
Audi SQ7 TDI quattro R1 679 500
Audi SQ8 TDI quattro R1 848 500
