The new Audi SQ7 TDI impresses with its pure diesel power. Its 4.0 TDI, a V8 with twin turbocharging, produces 320 kW (435 metric hp) and offers 900 Nm (663.8 lb-ft) of torque between 1,250 and 3,250 rpm. The large SUV accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 4.8 seconds and reaches an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.3 mph). It consumes between 7.6 and 7.4 liters of fuel per 100 km (30.9 - 31.8 US mpg)*, which corresponds to CO2 emissions of 200 to 194 grams per kilometer (321.9 - 312.2 g/mi)*.
The two turbochargers of the 4.0 TDI follow the concept of sequential turbocharging; they are switched on as needed via the Audi valvelift system (AVS). At low engine speeds, only one turbocharger is active. As the engine speed increases, the AVS opens the second exhaust valve in the cylinder. This causes exhaust gas to flow to the second turbine, activating the other turbo.
The 48-volt electrical system of the new Audi SQ7 is designed as an electrical subsystem. It feeds an electric powered compressor (EPC) that assists the two turbochargers whenever the load demand from the accelerator is high while the available energy in the exhaust gas is still low. In this case, it supplies the fresh air, which is important for combustion. The result is brawny torque available instantly at any time – when accelerating from low speeds and particularly when starting off. The EPC is integrated into the intake air tract. A compact electric motor accelerates its compressor impeller to up to 70,000 revolutions per minute in 250 milliseconds. In the exhaust system, two actuators modulate a full eight-cylinder sound.
Audi SQ7 | 55 TDI quattro tiptronic |
Displacement in cc | 3,956 |
Max. power output in kW (metric hp) at rpm | 320 (435) at 3,750–4,750 |
Max. torque in Nm (lb-ft) at rpm | 900 (663.8) at 1,250–3,250 |
Top speed in km/h (mph) | 250 (155.3) |
Acceleration 0–100 km/h (62.1 mph) in s | 4.8 |
Fuel consumption (combined) in l/100 km*(US mpg) | 7.6 - 7.4 (30.9 - 31.8) |
Combined CO2 emissions in g/km*(g/mi) | 200 - 194 (321.9 - 312.2) |
Drive | quattro drive |
Transmission | Eight-speed tiptronic |
* Figures depend on the tire/wheel sets used and the number of seats
A powerful eight-speed tiptronic and the quattro permanent all-wheel drive put the immense power of the 4.0 TDI onto the road. The progressive steering whose ratio becomes increasingly direct as the steering angle increases, and the adaptive air suspension sport come standard. The advanced suspension package bundles three systems with the S model: In addition to the electromechanical active roll stabilization and the all-wheel steering, which is also available separately, the sport differential delivers even more dynamic handling. On fast corners, it actively distributes the power between the rear wheels. This way the Audi SQ7 TDI is literally pressed into the bend when steering or accelerating, eliminating any sign of understeer. In case of oversteer, the sport differential stabilizes the large SUV by shifting drive torque to the wheel on the inside of the curve.
Striking appearance: design and equipment
On the outside, the Audi SQ7 stands apart from the base model with its twin slats in the Singleframe, exterior mirror caps in aluminum look and the four S-specific exhaust tailpipes with round, chrome trims. The blade in the bumper has a three-dimensional shape, and the underbody protection at the rear looks even sturdier. Some attachments are painted in matt silver, and the black styling package is available as an option. The color Daytona gray, pearl effect as well as numerous customized paint finishes from the Audi exclusive program are available as a special feature.
The Audi SQ7 comes with 20-inch cast aluminum wheels in 5-spoke turbine design with 285/45 tires as standard. Due to the high engine power, brake discs measuring 400 millimeters (15.7 in) in diameter are fitted to the front, with 350 millimeter (13.8 in) discs at the rear. The black brake calipers – optionally also available in red – feature an S logo at the front. Upon request, Audi delivers a 20-inch brake system with discs made of carbon fiber ceramics, which are particularly abrasion-resistant. They have a diameter of 420 millimeters (16.5 in) at the front and 370 millimeters (14.6 in) at the rear. As compared to the cast iron brake discs of the standard 19-inch system, the ceramic discs are just over 9 kilograms (19.8 lb) lighter in total. In this case, the brake calipers are painted anthracite gray.
A dark leather/Alcantara combination dominates the interior of the Audi SQ7. The inlays are made of matt brushed aluminum or optionally carbon, which underscores the sporty look. The standard specification includes the sport seats as well as the MMI navigation plus including touch operation and the Audi virtual cockpit with S-specific display. There is also a performance view, which places the rev counter in the center as a rectangular graphic. Optional S sport seats plus are available with integrated head restraints, pneumatic lumbar support adjustment and upholstery in Valcona leather featuring rhombus pattern. The color spectrum ranges from black, rotor gray, to Arras red offered exclusively for the S model. The center armrest and the door trims are also finished in a matching color. In Germany, the Audi SQ7 TDI will be available from EUR 94,900.
Fuel consumption of the models listed
(Information on fuel consumption and CO2 emissions as well as efficiency classes in ranges depending on the tires and alloy wheel rims used and the number of seats)
Audi Q7 45 TDI quattro tiptronic:
Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 7.1 - 6.8 (33.1 - 34.6 US mpg);
Combined CO2 emissions in g/km (g/mi): 186 - 179 (299.3 - 288.1 g/mi)
Audi Q7 50 TDI quattro tiptronic:
Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 6.9 - 6.6 (34.1 - 35.6 US mpg);
Combined CO2 emissions in g/km (g/mi): 181 - 174 (291.3 - 280.0 g/mi)
Audi Q7 55 TFSI quattro tiptronic:
Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 9.1 - 8.7 (25.8 - 27.0 US mpg);
Combined CO2 emissions in g/km (g/mi): 208 - 199 (334.7 - 320.3 g/mi))
Audi SQ7 TDI:
Combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 7.6 - 7.4 (30.9 - 31.8 US mpg);
Combined CO2 emissions in g/km (g/mi): 200 - 194 (321.9 - 312.2 g/mi)
The specified fuel consumption and emission data have been determined according to the measurement procedures prescribed by law. Since September 1, 2017, certain new vehicles are already being type-approved according to the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP), a more realistic test procedure for measuring fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Starting on September 1, 2018, the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) will be replaced by the WLTP in stages. Owing to the more realistic test conditions, the fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions measured according to the WLTP will, in many cases, be higher than those measured according to the NEDC. For further information on the differences between the WLTP and NEDC, please visit www.audi.de/wltp.
We are currently still required by law to state the NEDC figures. In the case of new vehicles which have been type-approved according to the WLTP, the NEDC figures are derived from the WLTP data. It is possible to specify the WLTP figures voluntarily in addition until such time as this is required by law. In cases where the NEDC figures are specified as value ranges, these do not refer to a particular individual vehicle and do not constitute part of the sales offering. They are intended exclusively as a means of comparison between different vehicle types. Additional equipment and accessories (e.g. add-on parts, different tire formats, etc.) may change the relevant vehicle parameters, such as weight, rolling resistance and aerodynamics, and, in conjunction with weather and traffic conditions and individual driving style, may affect fuel consumption, electrical power consumption, CO₂ emissions and the performance figures for the vehicle.
Further information on official fuel consumption figures and the official specific CO2 emissions of new passenger cars can be found in the “Guide on the fuel economy, CO2 emissions and power consumption of all new passenger car models,” which is available free of charge at all sales dealerships and from DAT Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH, Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen, Germany (www.dat.de).
All terms marked in the text are explained in detail in the technology lexicon at www.audi-mediacenter.com/en/technology-lexicon.
The equipment, data and prices specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.