Audi SQ8 India Launch Date Confirmed: 5 Key Things You Should Know

Audi India is setting the stage for the launch of the SQ8 SUV in the Indian market on March 17. The new performance-oriented model will fill the gap between the Q8 and the RS Q8 in the automaker's lineup. While it tones down the performance of the RS Q8, it offers certain improvements over the standard SUV, placing it higher in the hierarchy. Furthermore, the SUV is likely to offer more changes over the standard version, extending beyond the powertrain. Here, we take a look at these changes.

Audi SQ8: Powertrain

Starting with the heart of the SUV, the SQ8 packs a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine belting out 507 hp and 770 Nm of torque at the peak of its performance. This is the same unit that powers the RSQ8. Meanwhile, the standard version of the SUV comes with a 3.0-litre turbo petrol engine, which kicks out 340 hp and 500 Nm. The power is routed to the wheels using an 8-speed automatic transmission.

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Audi SQ8: Design

The Audi SQ8 carries an identity of its own with a coupe-SUV shape, with changes adding to its sportiness. The front end of the vehicle consists of a single-frame grille with a honeycomb pattern complemented by dark elements. These places with the unique design of the headlamps give the car its unique persona. To add to it, the design of the bumper comes with large air intakes.

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With a sloping roofline, the car gets a strong shoulder line with dark elements and S-specific alloy wheels. Meanwhile, the rear features a light bar covering the width of the vehicle. As the gaze moves lower, there is a diffuser-style bumper and quad exhaust outlets. There is also a roof-mounted spoiler to complete the package.

Audi SQ8: Interior

The SUV features a flat-bottom steering wheel wrapped in leather with S badging and paddle shifters. The center console boasts a glossy black finish and an electronic gear selector. The cabin is adorned with ambient lighting and high-quality materials. Standard sport seats come with leather and Alcantara upholstery, contrast stitching, and S logos, providing better lateral support than those in the Q8. The rear seating area remains the same as in the standard version.

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Audi SQ8: Features

In terms of features, the SQ8 is equipped with dual 12.3-inch displays, one serving as the instrument cluster and the other for the infotainment system, a B&O audio system, a steering wheel featuring S-line badging, S-spec graphics on the instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, connected car technology, multi-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, powered front seats that offer heating, ventilation, and massage functions, among others.

Audi SQ8: Safety

For safety, it includes multiple airbags, an anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), traction control, park assist, a 360-degree camera, front and rear parking sensors, a tire pressure monitoring system, and ISOFIX. It is also anticipated to be equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, and more.