The engine delivers 429hp and a mammoth 900Nm of torque between 1,250 and 3,250 rpm, credentials that enable it to propel the SQ8 like a sports car: acceleration from rest to 62mph requires just 4.8 seconds, soon after which the electronic propulsion limit kicks in at 155mph. The power of the V8 engine is emphasised by an engine cover specific to the S model series. Red applications flank the striking contours of the cylinder and visualise the air ducting.
In the eight cylinder heads, the intake side is on the outside and the hot exhaust side with the two turbochargers is in the inner “V.” As a result, the gas travel paths are short, working in favour of immediacy of response. The turbos are operated according to the principle of sequential turbocharging. Only one charger is active at low engine speeds; the second charger exerts its influence from around 2,200 rpm. The sonorous sound of the eight-cylinder engine is amplified by a sound actuator in the exhaust system, which drivers can adjust to their personal preferences via Audi drive select.
An electrically powered compressor (EPC) assists the turbochargers when starting off and when accelerating at a low engine speeds. It is located in a bypass behind the intercooler and is activated when the flap is closed. If the load requirement is high while the amount of energy available in the exhaust gas is low, the intake air flows into the EPC, where it is compressed a second time. It thereby ensures consistently strong power delivery and excellent overtaking capability.
The driving force behind the EPC is the 48-volt main on-board electrical system, which is also the backbone of the mild hybrid system (MHEV). A compact lithium-ion battery serves as its energy storage unit. The belt alternator starter (BAS), which is connected to the crankshaft, allows up to 8 kW of recuperation power to be generated during deceleration and can feed this energy into the battery.
Power transmission in the SQ8 TDI takes place via an eight-speed tiptronic transmission.
As standard, the SQ8 TDI is equipped with the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system, all-wheel-steering, Audi drive select dynamic handling system with seven modes and the adaptive air suspension sport with regulated damping. The air suspension changes the ride height as needed by as much as 90mm.
The SQ8 TDI features a taut, muscular surfaces and a coupé-like roof line with octagonal singleframe and S-specific details. Standard HD Matrix LED headlights illuminate the road,
With its three-metre wheelbase, the SQ8 TDI provides a generous amount of space. As is typical for an S model, the interior is primarily finished in black, with diamond stitched black Valcona leather upholstery, but the seats, the front centre armrest and the door armrests can be trimmed in rotor grey or Arras red as an option.
