Audi India is all set to introduce the Audi SQ8 in the Indian market tomorrow, expanding its performance SUV portfolio. The upcoming model will slot between the standard Audi Q8 and the range-topping Audi RS Q8, offering a blend of sporty performance and everyday usability. Positioned as a more aggressive and powerful alternative to the Q8, the SQ8 brings notable mechanical upgrades and sportier styling cues while remaining slightly less extreme than the RS Q8. Along with enhanced performance, the model is expected to feature several design and interior refinements that distinguish it from the regular Q8. Here's a closer look at what the SUV is likely to offer.
Audi SQ8: Powertrain
At the heart of the SQ8 sits a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine that produces 507 hp and 770 Nm of torque. Interestingly, this is the same powerplant found in the more hardcore RS Q8, although tuned differently for this variant.
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Power will be sent to all four wheels through an 8-speed automatic gearbox, working alongside Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system to deliver improved traction and driving dynamics.
Audi SQ8: Design
Visually, the SQ8 adopts a coupe-style SUV silhouette, giving it a sportier stance than many conventional luxury SUVs. The front fascia features Audi's signature single-frame grille with a honeycomb mesh pattern, complemented by darker trim elements that emphasize the vehicle's performance-oriented identity.
Slim LED headlamps and a sculpted bumper with large air intakes further enhance the aggressive appearance. Along the sides, the sloping roofline merges with a prominent shoulder line, while S-specific alloy wheels and dark accents add to the athletic profile.
At the rear, the SUV sports a full-width light bar connecting the tail lamps. A diffuser-inspired bumper design, quad exhaust outlets, and a roof-mounted spoiler round off the sporty look.
Audi SQ8: Interior & Features
Inside the cabin, the SQ8 follows Audi's familiar driver-focused digital layout. It gets a flat-bottom leather-wrapped steering wheel featuring S badging and paddle shifters for manual gear control.
The centre console comes with a gloss black finish and electronic gear selector, while ambient lighting enhances the premium atmosphere. Sport seats upholstered in leather and Alcantara with contrast stitching and S logos are expected to provide improved lateral support compared to the regular Q8.
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Rear seating arrangements are likely to remain similar to the standard SUV, offering generous space and comfort for passengers.
The SQ8 is expected to come equipped with a dual 12.3-inch screen setup-one serving as the digital instrument cluster and the other handling infotainment duties. The system will support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with connected car technology.
Other notable features are expected to include a Bang & Olufsen premium audio system, multi-zone climate control, panoramic sunroof, powered front seats with heating, ventilation and massage functions, and S-specific graphics for the instrument display.
Audi SQ8: Safety Features
On the safety front, the SQ8 will likely offer multiple airbags, ABS, electronic stability control, traction control, a tyre pressure monitoring system, park assist, front and rear parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera.
The SUV is also expected to include advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking.
Audi SQ8: Bookings
Audi has already opened bookings for the upcoming SQ8 performance SUV in India. Customers can reserve the vehicle with an initial payment of Rs 5,00,000 through the Audi India website or the myAudi Connect application.