Audi introduced the SQ7 and
SQ8 last year, and now the company has confirmed they’re coming to America.
While the European models have a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 diesel engine that
produces 429 hp and 900 Nm, the US-spec
crossovers are getting a more powerful petrol V8. It’s also a twin-turbo
4.0-liter unit, but it develops 500 hp and 769 Nm of torque.
The engine is connected is an
eight-speed automatic transmission which sends power to a standard quattro
all-wheel drive system. This setup enables both models to accelerate from 0-96 km/h in 4.3 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 250
km/h.
Speaking of performance, the
crossovers have an all-wheel steering system that can turn the rear wheels in
the opposite direction of the front wheels. This helps to improve low-speed
maneuverability and handling, as well as stability at higher speeds.
An assortment of options will
be available including an electromechanical active roll stabilization system
which can stiffen the front and rear stabilizer bars. Customers can also opt
for a quattro sport differential which can send up to 80% of the power to the
rear wheels.
On the styling front, the
crossovers largely echo their European counterparts. As a result have silver
mirror caps, a four-tailpipe sports exhaust system and Alu-optic or Black-optic
styling details. The SQ7 will feature 20- and 21-inch alloy wheels, while the
SQ8 adopts larger 21- and 22-inchers.
Audi didn’t say much about the
interior, but confirmed the models will have front sport seats with
cross-stitched leather that is unique to the performance variants. The seats
will also feature heating and ventilation. There’s no word on pricing at this point,
but full details will be announced closer to their launch this spring.
