New, slim Matrix LED headlamps make the front end of the SQ8 appear lower and wider, while the new grille features inset vertical elements and a silver frame, distinguishing it from other Q8 models. S-specific design features include a redesigned front spoiler and underride guard, larger air intakes, and a prominent diffuser at the rear. The rear light bar features OLED technology on the Vorsprung models. Inside, electrically adjustable front sport seats with S embossed logo in Valcona leather are standard.
Features
Like its Q8 stablemate, the SQ8 has Audi’s ultra-sharp Virtual Cockpit digital instrumentation, together with twin central touchscreens. The lower 8.6-inch touchscreen controls the climate settings, while the 10.2-inch upper touchscreen carries MMI Navigation Plus, along with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto smartphone integration. Haptic feedback helps to confirm when you’ve selected or changed a function. Black Edition features include keyless-go, head-up display, B&O premium sound system, four-zone automatic climate control and a three-spoke flat bottomed steering wheel. Choose the Vorsprung model and you’ll also enjoy a 360-degree camera system, electric sun blinds for the rear side windows, ventilation and massage function for the front seats, heating for all seats (except the centre rear) and a panoramic roof.
Performance & Technology
Audi’s petrol-fuelled twin turbo 4.0-litre V8 develops 507PS and 770Nm of torque, rocketing the SQ8 to 62 miles an hour in just 4.1 seconds from a standing start. That would be impressive enough for a sports car, but in a big SUV it’s laugh-out-loud amazing. Advanced engineering features include a ‘cylinder-on-demand system’ that saves fuel by deactivating cylinders 2, 3, 5, and 8 on part throttle, so smoothly that driver and passengers won’t notice the transition. Air suspension, all-wheel steering and quattro all-wheel drive are standard, while the Vorsprung model also boasts electromechanical active roll stabilization (eAWS) and a sport differential.
Safety
The SQ8, like the Q8, was awarded the full 5-star EuroNCAP safety rating. Active safety equipment includes low-speed automatic emergency braking (AEB), which first alerts you to potential frontal collisions with cars and pedestrians, and then applies the brakes if necessary. The Vorsprung specification adds high-speed AEB, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and traffic sign recognition.
