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Introduction to the Audi SQ7 TDI
Audi has unveiled an updated top-of-the-range version of the SQ7, incorporating a set of impressive innovations that make this already outstanding performance SUV even better. The update comes just in time to compete with premium rivals such as the Range Rover Sport and Porsche. The Audi SQ7 TDI’s performance is superb, thanks to features like the electric-powered compressor, roll stabilization, all-wheel steering, and the sport differential. The SQ7 TDI is defined by its modern design with S-specific detailing, extensive equipment, and a 435 metric horsepower V8 diesel engine. The interior boasts sport seats, MMI navigation plus with touch operation, and the Audi virtual cockpit including a performance view as standard. The 4.0 TDI engine, equipped with an electrically powered compressor, provides ample power at any time.
Performance and Engine Specifications
The Audi SQ7 TDI impresses with its new diesel power, featuring a biturbo V8 engine with an electric-powered compressor. The 4.0 TDI engine delivers 320 kW (435 metric horsepower) and a torque of 900 Nm (663.8 lb-ft) between 1,250 and 3,250 rpm. This large SUV can sprint from zero to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in just 4.8 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h (155.3 mph) if required. Despite its impressive performance, the SQ7 TDI uses only between 7.6 and 7.4 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (30.9 – 31.8 US mpg), which translates to CO2 emissions of 200 to 194 grams per kilometer. The 48-volt system powers an electric-powered compressor (EPC) that assists the two turbochargers whenever the load demand is high and the available exhaust gas energy is still low. The EPC supplies the extra oxygen needed for combustion, resulting in more torque being available instantly—particularly when accelerating from low speeds or when starting off.
Handling and Suspension
The SQ7 TDI features a quickly shifting eight-speed gearbox and the Quattro permanent all-wheel drive system, which transfers all the torque onto the road. The sport air suspension and progressive steering, whose ratio becomes increasingly direct as the steering angle increases, contribute to excellent driving ability. All-wheel steering makes the large SUV even easier to handle in corners and during quick direction changes. At low speeds, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to increase agility, while at high speeds, they steer in the same direction to make the car more stable.
Advanced Suspension Package
The optional advanced suspension package includes active roll stabilization. This system reduces the sprung mass vibrations on uneven roads and uses optimum roll compensation to reduce the roll angle in corners. The sport differential enables even more dynamic handling; in fast corners, it actively distributes power between the rear wheels. This action effectively “presses” the Audi SQ7 TDI into the curve to eliminate any understeer. In the case of oversteer, the sport differential stabilizes the large SUV by shifting drive torque to the wheel on the inside of the curve.
Exterior Design
The Audi SQ7 TDI inherits the current design of the Q models with added S-specific features. It differs from the base model with its twin slats in the Singleframe, exterior mirror housings in an aluminum look, and four characteristic exhaust tailpipes with round, chrome trims. The blade in the bumper has a three-dimensional shape, and the underbody protection at the rear looks even sturdier. Some attachments are painted in matte silver, and a black styling package is available as an option. The color Daytona gray, pearl effect, as well as numerous customized paint finishes from the Audi exclusive program, are available as special features.
Wheels and Brakes
The SQ7 TDI is equipped with 20-inch cast-aluminum wheels in a 5-spoke turbine design with 285/45 tires as standard. Due to the high engine power, brake discs measuring 400 millimeters (15.7 inches) in diameter are fitted to the front, with 370 millimeter (14.6 inches) discs at the rear. The black brake calipers—optionally available in red—feature an S logo at the front. A 20-inch brake system with discs made of carbon fiber ceramics, which are particularly abrasion-resistant, is available upon request. These discs have a diameter of 420 millimeters (16.5 inches) at the front and 370 millimeters (14.6 inches) at the rear. The calipers are painted in anthracite gray.
Interior and Equipment
The interior of the new Audi SQ7 TDI mixes dark leather/Alcantara with matte brushed aluminum or optionally carbon, which underscores the sporty look. The optional contour/ambient lighting package illuminates the elementary design lines and surfaces in multiple adjustable colors. In addition to the sport seats, the series production scope also includes illuminated door sill trims with aluminum inlays featuring the S logo at the front. The pedals, footrest, and loading sill protector are made of stainless steel. Optional S sport seats plus are available with integrated head restraints, S embossing in the backrest, pneumatic lumbar support adjustment, and upholstery in Valcona leather featuring a rhombus pattern. The color spectrum ranges from black and rotor gray to Arras red, which is offered exclusively for the S model. The center armrest is also designed to match this look. Climate control and a massage function can also be added to the S sport seats plus.
Connectivity and Displays
MMI navigation plus, which includes touch screen operation, delivers top-of-the-line connectivity. It includes LTE, a Wi-Fi hotspot, voice control, and the Audi connect portfolio. The Audi connect portfolio includes traffic information online, navigation with Google Earth, hybrid radio, as well as the cloud-based Amazon voice service Alexa, which is integrated into the MMI operating system. The traffic light information service is another new addition. It connects the vehicle with the central computer that controls traffic lights and provides the driver with information in the fully digital instrument cluster and the optional head-up display. This service contributes to an efficient driving style and facilitates a steady flow of traffic. All displays are shown with an S-specific display in the Audi virtual cockpit. There is also a performance view, which places the particularly sporty rev counter in the center.
Additional Convenience Features
The extensive offer is complemented by numerous convenience equipment options, including four-zone automatic air conditioning, a power-assist function to close the doors quietly, the Bang & Olufsen 3D Advanced Sound System, and the air quality package with fragrancing and an ionizer. Audi offers HD matrix LED headlights including laser light as an alternative to matrix LED headlights with dynamic turn signals. The adaptive cruise assist, which supports the driver with longitudinal and lateral guidance, is among a variety of driver assistance systems that are available upon request.
Key Takeaways
- The Audi SQ7 TDI features a 4.0 TDI engine delivering 435 metric horsepower and 900 Nm of torque, enabling a 0-100 km/h sprint in 4.8 seconds.
- Advanced features such as an electric-powered compressor, all-wheel steering, and a sport differential contribute to its superb performance and handling.
- The exterior design includes S-specific features such as twin slats in the Singleframe, aluminum-look mirror housings, and four round, chrome-trimmed exhaust tailpipes.
- Standard equipment includes 20-inch cast-aluminum wheels, a sport air suspension, and a progressive steering system.
- The interior offers a sporty yet luxurious environment with options for S sport seats plus, MMI navigation plus, and an Audi virtual cockpit with a performance view.
- Additional features include a 48-volt system, active roll stabilization, and a variety of driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise assist.
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