Audi SQ8 bookings open

Audi has opened bookings for the upcoming Audi SQ8 in India ahead of its official launch on March 17. Interested customers can reserve the high-performance SUV by paying a booking amount of Rs 5 lakh.

- Booking can be done with a token amount of Rs 5 lakh
- Powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine that pushes 507 PS and 770 Nm
- Rivals the likes of the Mercedes?Benz AMG GLE 53 Coupe and the Porsche Cayenne GTS 

The SQ8 will be positioned between the standard Audi Q8 and the range-topping Audi RS Q8 in the company's SUV lineup, offering a blend of luxury and performance.

Powertrain

Under the hood, the SQ8 is powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine that produces 507hp and 770Nm of torque. The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and sends power to all four wheels through Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system. Compared with the regular Q8, the SQ8 delivers 167hp and 270Nm more.

The SUV also features a self-locking centre differential, adaptive air suspension, and rear-wheel steering. According to Audi, the SQ8 can accelerate from 0–100kph in 4.1 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 250kph.

Design

In terms of design, the SQ8 largely retains the look of the standard Q8 but includes a few sportier touches. These include 'S' badges on the tailgate, larger front air intakes, and exterior elements finished in either black or satin silver. The SUV is also expected to be offered with alloy wheels ranging from 21 to 23 inches.

Interiors

Inside, the SQ8's cabin will closely resemble that of other Q8 variants. It will feature a combination of Alcantara and leather upholstery along with twin 12.3-inch screens for the infotainment system and digital instrument cluster. The instrument display will also include unique 'S' performance graphics.

Other expected features include a panoramic sunroof, head-up display, and electrically adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions.

Pricing for the SQ8 is likely to fall between the Q8 and RS Q8. With the Q8 priced at around Rs 1.13 crore and the RS Q8 at Rs 2.33 crore (ex-showroom), the SQ8 could be introduced at roughly Rs 1.5 crore.

Once launched, the performance SUV will compete with rivals such as the Mercedes?Benz AMG GLE 53 Coupe and the Porsche Cayenne GTS in the luxury performance SUV segment.