Kamal Ghorui
Bookings for the new Audi SQ8 have officially opened in India ahead of its launch scheduled for March 17. Interested customers can reserve the performance SUV by paying a token amount of Rs 5 lakh through the official website of Audi India or via the myAudi Connect app. The company will reveal the final price of the model on the day of the launch.The SQ8 sits between the standard Audi Q8 and the more extreme Audi RS Q8 in Audi’s flagship SUV line-up. With its arrival, the Q8 range in India will expand to three models.
Audi SQ8: All you need to know
In terms of design, the SQ8 builds on the coupe-style silhouette of the regular Q8 but adds sportier styling cues. At the front, it features Audi’s signature Singleframe grille with a honeycomb pattern and darkened elements, along with a sharper bumper design and larger air intakes. The SUV also gets distinctive LED lighting elements and a wide stance. At the rear, the SQ8 features a full-width LED light bar, sculpted tailgate and quad exhaust outlets, which help distinguish it from the standard Q8.
Inside, the cabin largely mirrors the layout of the Q8 but introduces sport-focused details. The SUV gets Audi’s 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a dual touchscreen setup integrated into the centre console for infotainment and vehicle functions. Other highlights include a flat-bottom steering wheel with S badging, ambient lighting and sport seats with leather and Alcantara upholstery.Under the hood, the SQ8 is powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine producing 507 hp and 770 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that sends power to all four wheels through Audi’s quattro system. Audi claims the SUV can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in about 4.0 seconds.When launched, the SQ8 will arrive in India via the CBU route and is expected to compete with models such as the Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe, BMW X5 M60i, Porsche Cayenne and Maserati Grecale.
