The Audi SQ7 Is A 429bhp V8 Diesel SUV You’ll Hate Yourself For Wanting
The Geneva motor show press days are done with, but that doesn’t mean it’s all over for new cars this week. That’s evidenced by Audi revealing a new member of the S family at its Ingolstadt HQ today: the SQ7. And by the look of it, it’s a bit of a belter.
It’s powered by a 429bhp, 4.0-litre V8 diesel engine pumping out a substantial 663.8lb ft of twist, and thanks to the new Q7 being over 300kg lighter than the old one, this S version is properly fast. 0-62mph takes just 4.8 seconds, which is only a tenth off the Range Rover Sport SVR and - incredibly - a tenth quicker than a Porsche Cayman GTS. Not bad for a flipping massive SUV. The top speed, meanwhile, is electronically pegged at 155mph.
What’s particularly interesting about the SQ7’s speed is the way it goes about it. There are two conventional, exhaust gas-driven turbochargers, supplemented by an electric-driven ‘compressor’. The compressor - said to be the first ever fitted to a production car - sits just downstream of the intercooler, and is able to spin at up to 70,000rpm.
It’s used at low revs, and since it doesn’t have to wait for exhaust gasses to get it spinning, lag is no longer an issue. Or as Audi dramatically puts it: “with this technology, turbo lag is history”. The compressor is powered by a 48‑volt electrical subsystem.
The V8 sends its power to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox and a self-locking central differential. You also get an electronic anti-roll system, and all-wheel steering. If you’re really serious about driving, you can even option a set of carbon ceramic brake discs.
Despite all the poke on offer, the SQ7 still returns a decent 38.2mpg on the combined cycle, while puffing out 194g/km of Co2.
It’s not the most CT car, but I rather like the sound of this thing. Given that this is a big, obnoxious diesel SUV, is that wrong? Give me your support/hatred in the comments!
Growing up on a diet of World Rally Championship highlights and lengthy Gran Turismo 2 sessions, a life in cars was as good as inevitable for Matt.
Comments
This would make a mad sleeper/daily
I’d love an ugly Audi !
I’d love an SUV !
I’d love an overpriced Tiguan !
Hint: None of these sentences are true.
Oh… You mean that new V8 429 HP 155 MPH 7 Seater luxury Tiguan…
Diesel SUV makes more sense to me. It weighs a lot, so more torque is always welcome, so is fuel efficiency(in Europe at least).
We have a ‘15 grand Cherokee overland with the ecodiesel, I love it. Beautiful interior not often found on American vehicles, and awesome 4WD. But this audi grabs my attention.
OMG 900 Nm
Why would I want it? I’d just get an RS6 or RS4 or an M3 or M5 or…. and let the kids complain that they don’t have enough room ;)
wasn’t the “compressor to kill turbo lag” thing first shown on the new volvo S90 engine?
new S90 has an Antilag system but as i know its not a compressor
Why in the world would I want one? I god damn hate SUV’s. If I’m ever getting a SUV it needs to be a real one with a ladder chassis and somewhat decent offroad capabilities stock. Like a Land Cruiser, Discovery, Patrol or G-wagen. This is nothing but another mommymobile with a large engine stuffed in it.
I’d rather have a macan diesel.
Lovely, but still prefer the old Q7 with looks and V12 TDI over this one. Interior is amazing though.
Will there bie an RSQ7?
This one pretends to be one ;)
https://youtu.be/pTjdBRIhrDA