AUTO | Audi SQ8 blends luxury with brutal V8 performance

Audi SQ8 occupies an interesting space in Audi’s global SUV portfolio. Positioned between the standard Q8 and the fire-breathing RS Q8, the SQ8 aims to deliver a balanced blend of luxury, usability and serious performance without being excessively dramatic. It is not as visually aggressive as the RS model, nor is it as comfort-focused as the regular Q8. Instead, Audi has created a high-performance SUV that quietly goes about its business while packing enough punch to surprise almost anything on the road. Priced at Rs 1.78 crore (ex-showroom), the SQ8 is targeted at buyers who appreciate discreet performance. It is designed for someone who wants V8 power and premium luxury, but without the loud styling and attention-seeking personality often associated with performance SUVs.

Exteriors

The SQ8 carries a clean yet muscular design language that differentiates it subtly from the standard Q8. Unlike the RS Q8, which can feel restrained despite its performance credentials, the SQ8 strikes a more cohesive visual balance. Finished in shades like Ascari Blue, the SUV immediately stands out with its sporty detailing and brushed silver accents spread across the grille, bumpers, window surrounds and side skirts. The alloy wheels feature a sophisticated dual-tone finish that complements the SUV’s premium character without appearing overstyled. At the rear, the sleek LED light bar avoids the now-common fully connected layout, giving the SQ8 a distinct identity. The quad exhaust setup further hints at the SUV’s performance capabilities. Frameless doors add a premium coupe-like touch, while the soft-close functionality enhances the luxury experience. Interiors

Audi has introduced unique cabin elements that clearly separate it from the regular Q8, including the striking Arras Red interior theme and subtle Quattro branding integrated into the dashboard design. The flat-bottom steering wheel feels chunky and well-finished, while knurled metallic inserts around the cabin elevate the sense of craftsmanship. Nappa leather surfaces on frequently touched areas improve overall comfort, although some upper dashboard materials do not entirely match expectations at this price point. The front seats offer extensive adjustability along with ventilation, heating, massage functions and memory settings. Adjustable under-thigh support and a configurable armrest make long-distance driving particularly relaxing. Rear seat comfort is equally impressive. There is generous headroom and legroom, while the sliding and reclining second-row seats allow occupants to prioritise either comfort or luggage space. Even with three passengers seated at the back, the cabin rarely feels cramped. The boot offers enough space for multiple large suitcases, and the 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats increase versatility further. Storage spaces across the cabin are generous, including large bottle holders, wireless charging space, cooled glovebox storage and multiple USB-C charging ports.

Tech and features

Audi has equipped the SQ8 with a feature-rich cabin that combines luxury and usability. The SUV gets a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system paired with Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital driver display and a neatly integrated head-up display. The infotainment system controls everything from ambient lighting and drive modes to suspension height, TPMS data and massage seat settings. Matrix LED headlamps with selectable digital light signatures are a standout feature, allowing owners to customise the DRL appearance. Other notable features include four-zone climate control, panoramic sunroof, powered rear window blinds, a 360-degree camera, connected car technology and premium audio functionality. However, the biggest omission remains the absence of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In a luxury SUV priced well above Rs 1.5 crore, this feels outdated and slightly disappointing compared to newer rivals.

Engine and specifications

Powering the SQ8 is a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine shared with the RS Q8. In the SQ8, the motor produces 500bhp and 770Nm, which is significantly lower than the RS version but substantially higher than the standard Q8. The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system as standard. Despite weighing well over two tonnes, the SQ8 delivers relentless acceleration and effortless high-speed cruising ability. Turbo lag is marginally noticeable during aggressive throttle inputs, but once the boost arrives, the SUV surges forward with remarkable urgency. This beast can do a 0 to 100kmph dash in just 4.1 seconds.

Drive and suspension

The SQ8’s greatest strength lies in its dual personality. In Comfort mode, it behaves like a refined luxury, switch to Dynamic mode, however, and the SUV transforms into an entirely different machine. The air suspension setup deserves particular praise. The steering feels precise, the chassis remains composed and the Quattro AWD system delivers tremendous grip through corners. Ride height adjustability further enhances practicality, especially during rough-road driving or while loading luggage into the boot. Audi has also done an excellent job with cabin insulation, keeping outside noise extremely well controlled even at higher speeds.

Safety

The SQ8 comes equipped with a comprehensive safety package that includes eight airbags, ABS with EBD, TPMS, Park Assist and a 360-degree camera system. However, the ADAS suite feels limited for a modern flagship SUV. Lane Keep Assist is currently the only major driver assistance feature available, which places the SQ8 behind several rivals offering more advanced autonomous safety technologies.

Verdict

The Audi SQ8 succeeds in carving its own identity within Audi’s performance SUV lineup. It combines the luxury and practicality of the Q8 with enough V8-powered excitement to satisfy enthusiasts, all while maintaining a subtle and sophisticated personality. For buyers seeking a luxury SUV that can comfortably handle daily commutes while effortlessly transforming into a high-speed performance machine on demand, the SQ8 emerges as an impressively rounded package.