Audi SQ7 and Audi SQ8 with V8 TFSI engine

Audi introduces the SQ7 and SQ8 models with new TFSI engines. Thus, the brand with four rings on the logo corresponds to the global trend of high-performance sports gasoline engines in the SUV segment.

Audi SQ7 and SQ8

The Audi SQ7 and SQ8 feature a range of high-tech suspension components as well as new communication and driver assistance systems.

The new engine versions will hit the European market in autumn 2020.

Huge power: 4.0 TFSI

Thanks to the enormous output of the 4.0 TFSI petrol engine of 373 kW (507 hp) and 770 Nm of torque, the Audi SQ7 and SQ8 accelerate like top sports cars. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 4.1 seconds, and from 80 to 120 km/h in 3.8 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. Depending on the equipment selected, the SQ7 consumes between 12.0 and 12.1 liters of petrol per 100 km, which equates to between 276 and 278 grams of CO2 per kilometer*. The SQ8 consumes the same amount of gasoline per 100 km, but has slightly lower CO2 emissions: 275 - 276 g/km*.

The V8 biturbo drive is technically very advanced. The Cylinder on Demand (COD) system temporarily disables four of the eight cylinders during leisurely driving, reducing fuel consumption. Two twin-scroll turbochargers reduce back pressure and optimize gas exchange, which significantly improves combustion chamber filling. The turbochargers are located between the cylinder banks spaced 90 degrees apart. This arrangement results in short gas paths and spontaneous reactions even at low rotational speeds. The sound of the eight-cylinder engine is modulated by special dampers in the exhaust system. Active engine mounts minimize the transmission of vibrations to the vehicle body by generating phase-changing counter pulses with the help of oscillating coils. They are superimposed on engine vibrations and eliminate them to a large extent.

Very sporty: powertrain and suspension

The enormous power of the 4.0 TFSI engine is transferred to the road via an eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive. Two sports suspension components are standard on both the SQ7 and SQ8: adaptive sports air suspension with damping control and all-wheel steering. When driving slowly, this system turns the rear wheels of the vehicle 5 degrees in the opposite direction of the front wheels, which significantly reduces the turning radius and provides greater maneuverability. At speeds above 60 km/h, the rear wheels steer slightly in the same direction as the front wheels, contributing to high-speed stability and dynamic direction changes.

The Advanced Suspension Technology Package includes another extremely important and effective component: Electromechanical Active Stability Control (eAWS). How the system works: A compact electric motor with a three-speed planetary gear on both the front and rear axles separates the two halves of the stabilizer. When driving in a straight line, they are separated from each other, which reduces body movement, especially on uneven surfaces, and improves driving comfort. However, during sporty driving and dynamic cornering, the stabilizer tubes constantly rotate in opposite directions. In this way, the lateral tilt of the vehicle is significantly reduced and the tendency to understeer is greatly reduced. The package also includes a sports differential that distributes torque between the wheels on the rear axle during dynamic cornering according to current needs. After that, the machine becomes more maneuverable and accurate.

The EFP Chassis Electronic Platform is the central controller that connects most chassis components and systems. Its work is perceived by drivers as a feeling of maximum precision in driving. With Audi drive select, drivers can choose from seven driving profiles: Comfort, Automatic, Dynamic, Economy, All-Terrain, Off-Road and Individual.

The Audi SQ7 is fitted with 20-inch wheels as standard, with 22-inch wheels available as an option. The Audi SQ8 has 21-inch wheels as standard, with 22- and 23-inch wheels available as options. Both models on the front axle have brake discs with a diameter of 400 mm. Their black calipers are adorned with sporty S badges. Audi also offers very strong and durable carbon fiber ceramic brake discs for both the front and rear axles. In this case, the callipers are painted anthracite grey. The rich technical packages of both models are complemented by new solutions for infotainment, connectivity and driver assistance systems. They make driving and parking easier and make driving even more enjoyable.

The Audi SQ7 and Audi SQ8 with the new 4.0 TFSI engine will hit European markets this autumn.

* Data on combustion and CO2 emissions refer to the German market.

Photo: Audi