Earlier this week Audi pulled the wraps off two sleek new models that are powered entirely by batteries. You can read about the RS E-Tron GT and E-Tron GT at this link. But the Four Rings isn’t ready to ditch the fuel that delivered multiple 24 Hours of Le Mans wins. Two new heavyweight turbodiesel SUVs dropped into the SA market today in the shape of the Audi SQ7 and SQ8 twins

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Bespoke appearance

Both the Audi SQ7 and SQ8 (which sit one step below the range-topping RS Q8) are set apart by model-specific styling cues. Double slats in the main grille, a three-dimensional blade in the bumper and side air inlets filled with a honeycomb mesh are some of the distinctions. Aluminium look side mirror caps, 21-inch Audi Sport alloys, and four tailpipes are other elements that set them apart. 

Read our driving review of the Audi Q8 55 TFSI at this link.

Powerhouses

The Audi SQ7 and SQ8 are both powered by turbocharged V8 diesel engines. These motors put out 310 kW of power and a stonking 900 N.m of torque. Those peak outputs make this engine Audi’s most powerful unit engine currently available. The twin-turbo twins can accelerate from rest to 100 km/h in 4,8 seconds. Top speed is limited to 250 km/h. Audi quotes the fuel consumption figures as below 9 litres/100 km, but let’s face it, if fuel economy is your prime concern you’d be shopping lower down the range.

Power is directed to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Torque is split 40:60 front to rear under normal driving conditions. When wheel slip is detected at either end up to 70 per cent can be sent forward or 85 to the rear axle. The powerplant and drivetrain characteristics can be influenced by the Audi drive select system. This allows the driver to choose from seven driving profiles: comfort, auto, dynamic, efficiency, allroad, offroad, and individual.

Under the skin

Both SQ7 and SQ8 TDI come with adaptive air suspension. This variable system allows 90 mm of ride height adjustment. Brake discs measuring a whopping 400 mm in diameter are fitted to the front wheels. The rear items are 350 mm across. Distinctive red brake calipers feature an S logo on the front wheels.

Limited edition

The Audi SQ7 and SQ8 TDI available for sale in South Africa in limited numbers. 90 units in total will make their way to our shores, 65 SQ8s and 25 SQ7s.

Audi SQ7 TDI quattro                                              R1 679 500

Audi SQ8 TDI quattro                                              R1 848 500