AUDI has announced it will be bringing enhanced performance to its Q8 large coupe-SUV range, with the reveal of the twin-turbo-diesel V8 SQ8 that is set to touch down in Australia in the first half of 2020.

 

Having first landed in December with a pair of V6-powered offerings, the SQ8 ups the ante with the introduction of the oil-burning V8 that pumps out 320kW and a hefty 900Nm of torque from a low 1250-3250rpm.

 

Sending power to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission, all that grunt helps shift the SQ8 from standstill to 100km/h in 4.8 seconds and onto an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h.

 

The two turbochargers are aided by an electric-powered compressor that helps provide extra induction at low rpm, which is teamed to a 48-volt electrical mild-hybrid system that can reduce fuel consumption by up to 0.5 litres per 100km.

 

As befitting its performance status, the SQ8 scores adaptive air suspension that can change the ride height by up to 90mm, a locking centre differential and electromechanical active roll stabilisation, which helps keep the car flat through corners and aids handling.

 

Rear-wheel steering is available as an option, which helps improve the car’s turning circle at low speeds while aiding high-speed stability.

 

Some sporty touches have been applied to the SQ8’s exterior, including 21-inch wheels as standard (with optional 22-inch hoops), a double-louvred Singleframe grille, S-specific exhaust system, and matte silver underbody protection.

 

Inside, the leather sports seats are embossed with S logos and contrast stitching while featuring integrated head restraints and high side bolsters.

 

Massage function is available for the seats, while matte brushed aluminium trim comes as standard, with the choice of carbon or oak trim.

 

Handling infotainment and climate control duties are a pair of 10.1-inch screens, with an additional 12.3-inch screen for the digital instrument cluster which also shows a number of SQ8-specific performance readouts.

 

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 a surround-view monitor.

 

No local pricing has yet been revealed for the SQ8, however judging by the pricing structure of the mechanically related Q7 range, customers should expect to fork out around $180,000.

 

In its first full year on sale, Audi has recorded 172 sales of the Q8, placing it fourth in the upper-large SUV segment behind the Lexus LX (197), Range Rover (183) and BMW X7 (174).