New Delhi: Audi India will be launching the SQ8 variant of their flagship SUV on March 17th, according to Autocar India. Presently, the Audi Q8 is offered in standard and range-topping RS Q8, and the SQ8 will slot between these two. Apart from the performance, the mid-spec variant is also likely to feature distinct exterior and interior touches in order to differentiate it from the rest of the lineup.
In terms of powertrain, the SQ8 shares the 4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, which makes 640 bhp, 850 Nm of torque in the RS Q8. However, the petrol engine has been detuned here in order to make 507 bhp and 770 Nm of torque. In the standard version, there is a 3.0-litre turbo-petrol motor that has a peak output figure of 340 bhp and 500 Nm.
In terms of transmission, it will get an eight-speed automatic gearbox that will send power to all four wheels. Audi have claimed that the setup should make the SQ8 do 0-100 kph in 4.1 seconds.
Audi SQ8 design
Audi SQ8 has a subtle difference to stand apart from the standard Q8 and RS Q8
At the front, there is a distinctive silver surround for the huge grille, flanked by LED Matrix headlamps. This detailing extends to the L or J-shaped grille inserts (based on where it is being viewed from). It also comes with sculpted bumper air inlets, the ORVM housings under the doors, and the slim trim on the back bumper. In the foreign market, the SQ8 gets 21-inch wheels as standard, with an option for 22-inch units offered as well.
There are carbon-ceramic brake discs standard in a few countries where they are sold, and there is overall no change in the silhouette of the car.
Audi have been looking to increase their portfolio in order to improve their sales units in India, as they face heavy competition from their fellow German brands, BMW and Mercedes. With the SUV craze high in India, the SQ8 is a welcome addition from the brand, of course.