Audi is underlining the already bold performance of the SQ7 and SQ8 SUVs by equipping them with a new TFSI high-tech biturbo V8 engine,
The new unit replaces the original eight-cylinder TDI, introduces more power and quickens the pair off the mark,.
Adaptive S-specific air suspension and all-wheel-steering add to the performance, which in the UK can also be combined in both models with the well-equipped Vorsprung specification.
Ample power: The 4.0 TFSI
With an output increased by 72PS to 507PS and a 770 Nm torque peak, the 4.0 TFSI petrol engine punches the SQ7 and SQ8 to 62mph from standstill in just 4.1 seconds, surges from 50 to 75mph in both in just 3.8 seconds and needs to be electronically restrained at 155mph.
Efficiency has also been prioritised as highly as outright pace, and one of the key contributors to this in the high-tech biturbo engine is its cylinder on demand (COD) system, which temporarily deactivates four cylinders under low to medium load, thus reducing fuel consumption.
Transmission and suspension: all-wheel-steering now standard
An eight-speed tiptronic transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive marshal the increased power of the 4.0 TFSI, and standard S-specific adaptive air suspension converts it into movement that is remarkably keen and agile.
It is helped by all-wheel-steering, previously reserved for Vorsprung versions of the SQ7 and SQ8, but is now standard across the range. At low speeds, it turns the rear wheels by as much as five degrees in the opposite direction, reducing the turning circle to improve manoeuvrability. At speeds of 37mph and above, they turn slightly in the same direction to boost stability during fast changes of direction.
Dynamic support systems
Two additional dynamic support systems are reserved for the SQ8 Vorsprung - electromechanical active roll stabilisation (eAWS) and the sport differential. The active roll stabilisation system has stabilisers that are individually actuated by electric motors and provide a high level of ride comfort and reduced roll during fast cornering. The sport differential shifts torque between the rear wheels as needed during fast cornering to increase handling adjustability.
In the UK, the various chassis systems exert their influence on 21-inch alloy wheels in the SQ7, within which the S badging stamped on the 400-millimetre black front brake discs can be clearly seen. SQ7 Vorsprung models upgrade to a 22-inch wheel, and this size is common to standard and Vorsprung versions of the SQ8.
