Audi SQ8 Launched in India at ₹1.78 Crore
The new SQ8 features a potent 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine that produces 507hp and can sprint from 0-100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds.
Priced at ₹1.78 crore, the SQ8 sits comfortably between the standard Q8 and the hardcore RS Q8 Performance.
With this launch, Audi India has expanded its flagship SUV lineup by adding a model that is luxurious with strong V8 performance. This new SUV is placed between the regular Q8 and high-performance RS Q8 Performance, offering a perfect balance of luxury and performance.
The SQ8 will compete with other high-performance luxury SUVs such as the Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe, BMW X5 M60i and Porsche Cayenne in the Indian market.
| Model Variant | Ex-Showroom Price | Engine Type |
|---|---|---|
| Audi Q8 | ₹1.13 Crore | 3.0L V6 TFSI |
| Audi SQ8 | ₹1.78 Crore | 4.0L V8 TFSI |
| Audi RS Q8 Performance | ₹2.34 Crore | 4.0L V8 TFSI |
The Audi SQ8 is powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine that produces around 507 hp and 770 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system.
Performance figures are impressive for a large luxury SUV:
0-100 km/h in about 4.1 seconds
Electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h
These numbers place the SQ8 firmly in the performance SUV category while still maintaining everyday usability.
The SQ8 looks more sporty than the regular Q8 and gets several S-specific design elements that make it stand out. The front has Audi’s signature octagonal Singleframe grille with silver surrounds and large air intakes, giving the SUV a bold and aggressive look. It also comes with Matrix LED headlights and connected OLED tail-lights that have a unique lighting pattern.
The SUV comes with 21-inch alloy wheels as standard, but buyers can upgrade to 22-inch wheels for a stronger road presence. At the rear, the SQ8 gets a sporty diffuser and quad exhaust tips, which give it a powerful look and also hint at the V8 engine under the hood.
The SQ8 also offers multiple colour choices for buyers. It is available in eight exterior colours: Ascari Blue, Mythos Black, Daytona Grey, Glacier White, Chili Red, Waitomo Blue, Satellite Silver, and Sakhir Gold.
Inside, the SQ8 offers a luxury cabin with a sporty touch. The dashboard is packed with technology and features Audi’s triple-screen setup, which includes a 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit, a 10.1-inch infotainment screen, and an 8.6-inch display for climate control.
The SUV gets several premium and sporty features:
S-badge sport seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions
17-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system
Level-2 ADAS safety features with a 360-degree camera
The launch of the SQ8 shows Audi’s focus on expanding its performance-luxury lineup in India. The company is targeting buyers who want V8 performance and sporty styling without going all the way to the more expensive RS models.
With strong power, advanced technology and a premium price tag, the SQ8 becomes one of the most exclusive SUVs currently on sale in the country.
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