Kamal Ghorui
Audi India is all set to launch the new Audi SQ8 performance SUV in the Indian market. The Audi SQ8 is positioned between the standard Q8 and the range-topping RS Q8 in the company’s flagship SUV portfolio. It offers a mix of daily usability and performance, bridging the gap between the comfort-oriented Q8 and the more powerful RS Q8. With the introduction of the SQ8, the Q8 range in India will expand to three variants – the standard Q8, the performance-focused SQ8 and the range-topping RS Q8. Ahead of its launch, let’s take a look at the top five things you need to know. Audi SQ8: DesignThe Audi SQ8 builds on the coupe-SUV shape of the standard Q8, adding sport-oriented design changes. At the front, it features a large single-frame grille with a honeycomb pattern and darkened elements. LED headlamps with distinct daytime running light signatures sit on either side, while the revised bumper includes larger air intakes and sharper detailing.
From the side, the SUV retains the sloping roofline and wide stance of the Q8. It rides on large S-specific alloy wheels, with SQ8 badging on the front fenders. A strong shoulder line connects the front and rear, and select variants feature dark exterior trim, including mirror caps and window surrounds. At the rear, the SQ8 gets a full-width LED light bar and a contoured tailgate. The bumper integrates a diffuser-style element, and the quad exhaust outlets – two on each side serve as a key visual identifier. A roof-mounted spoiler completes the design.Audi SQ8: Interior The Audi SQ8 retains the cabin layout of the standard Q8 but adds sport-focused elements. The dashboard features a dual touchscreen setup integrated into the centre console, with the upper display managing infotainment and the lower screen handling climate and vehicle functions. Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster provides configurable displays, including performance-oriented views.
The SUV is equipped with a flat-bottom, leather-wrapped steering wheel with S badging and paddle shifters. The centre console has a gloss-black finish and an electronic gear selector. Ambient lighting and premium materials are used across the cabin. Sport seats with leather and Alcantara upholstery, contrast stitching and S logos come as standard, offering greater lateral support than those in the Q8. Rear seat space remains unchanged from the standard model.
Audi SQ8: Features, Safety Features-wise, the SQ8 gets twin 12.3-inch screens – one for the instrument cluster and infotainment system, B&O music system, steering wheel with S-line badging, S-spec graphics in the instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, connected car tech, multi-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, powered front seats with heating, ventilation and massage functions and more. Safety features include multiple airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), traction control, park assist, a 360-degree camera, front/rear parking sensors, tyre pressure monitoring system and ISOFIX. It’s also expected to get ADAS features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, and more.
Audi SQ8: PowertrainThe Audi SQ8 is powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, shared with the RS Q8, though in a lower state of tune. In the SQ8, the engine produces 507hp and 770Nm, compared to 640hp and 850Nm in the RS Q8. The standard Q8, by contrast, uses a 3.0-litre turbo-petrol engine generating 340hp and 500Nm. The SQ8 is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels. The SUV can accelerate from 0 to 100kph in 4.1 seconds (claimed).Audi SQ8: Launch dateThe new Audi SQ8 will be launched in the Indian market on March 17, 2026. It will be bought in India via the CBU route, and prices are expected to be upwards of Rs 1.6 crores (expected, ex-showroom). When launched, it competes with Mercedes-AMG GLE coupe, BMW X5 M60i, Porsche Cayenne and Maserati Grecale.
