Audi announces top-spec SQ8 pricing

AUDI Australia has announced pricing and specification for its all-new SQ8 high-performance coupe-style SUV, which is set to touch down in local showrooms in April priced from $165,500 plus on-road costs.

Its sticker price places it as the flagship of the Audi SUV range, $3400 north of the equivalent Q7, but more affordable than the limited-run SQ7 Black Edition at $174,900.

When it arrives, it will do battle with the likes of the BMW X6 M50i ($155,900), Porsche Cayenne S Coupe ($166,200) and the Mercedes-AMG GLE53 Coupe, which is set to touch down later in the year.

The headline act for the SQ8 is its powertrain, sharing the same triple-turbo 4.0-litre turbo-diesel V8 found in the SQ7, Bentley Bentayga diesel and Volkswagen Touareg 310TDI, the latter of which is currently under consideration for Australia.

Peak power stands at 320kW, while a momentous 900Nm of torque is developed from 1250-3250rpm, with power being sent to all four corners via an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Launching from standstill to 100km/h in the big SQ8 takes just 4.8 seconds, while combined fuel consumption is rated at 7.8 litres per 100km – aided by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system – and CO2 emissions at 205 grams per km.

Ride comfort is ensured with the use of adaptive air suspension, while the dynamic abilities of the SQ8 are ensured with the fitment of electromechanical active roll stabilisation and rear-axle steering.

The SQ8 features a number of styling enhancements over the Q8 55 TFSI/TDI, including standard S body styling with front and rear bumpers, grille, side sills and tailgate spoiler; 22-inch alloys, LED matrix headlights with dynamic rear indicators, red brake callipers, aluminium look exterior mirrors, privacy glass, power assisted doors and metallic paint.

Inside, standard kit includes S sports front seats, Valcona leather upholstery with diamond pattern stitching, three-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel, four-zone climate control air conditioning, colour interior ambient lighting, control buttons in black glass with haptic feedback, extended aluminium look for the centre console buttons, electric steering wheel adjustment, dual multimedia touchscreens measuring 10.1 inches (top) and 8.6 inches (bottom) with Android Auto and wireless Apple CarPlay, and Audi’s virtual cockpit digital instrument cluster.

Active safety systems include autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, traffic-jam assist, lane-keep assist, rear cross-traffic alert, intersection assist, exit warning and surround-view cameras.

Audi Australia managing director Paul Sansom said the SQ8 had generated strong local interest since its reveal.

“The very first SQ8 TDI takes its place as our new SUV flagship with a formidable on-road presence,” he said.

“It packages striking design, truly innovative technology and incredible dynamics into the ultimate performance SUV.

“With the well-known Australian affinity for performance vehicles across all segments, it's no surprise we've had such strong interest in this vehicle ahead of its arrival.”

2020 Audi Q8 pricing*

*Excludes on-road costs