The performance SUV is only available with a 4.0 V8 TDI in Europe, but its U.S. counterpart comes gas-powered.
The new 4.0 V8 TFSI spec produces 507 horsepower (378 kilowatts) and up to 770 Newton-meters (568 pound-feet) of torque. For the sake of comparison, the diesel spec generates 435 hp (324 kW) along with 900 Nm (664 lb-ft) of torque. The Europe version of the SQ7 needs 4.8 seconds to hit 100 km/h (62 mph) from standstill, while the U.S. version only needs 4.3 s for its 0-60 mph run. This is still slower than the 4.1 s of the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, though, which has the same engine model boosted further to 550 hp (410 kW). An eight-speed transmission sends the momentum to all four wheels.
Compared to the Europe spec depicted here, the SQ7 for USA will boast orange reflectors in the headlights – but that is about it for design differences.
Inside, the newcomer features sports seats wrapped in Valcona leather (black, grey and red colors available), room for seven passengers, a 12.3-inch digital dash panel, dual entertainment displays measuring 10.1 and 8.6 inches across, and a 19-channel audio system. The top trim level introduces an RGB HUD, and you may pay extra to get traffic sign recognition and a Bang & Olufsen 3D Advanced audio with 23 speakers and 1,920 Watts total.
In the States, the Audi SQ7 will ship in Premium Plus ($84,800+) and Prestige ($90,400+) trims.