Audi SQ7.
Audi Singapore may have just the model for the family man or woman in need of a high-performance seven-seater: the SQ7.
The SQ7 isn’t just the range-topping model of the Q7 line-up. It also has the distinction of being the only V8-powered seven-seater SUV available in Singapore. Even rivals like the Jaguar F-Pace SVR and Maserati Levante Trofeo only have five seats.
Prices for the Audi SQ7 currently start from $500,951 with COE.
LOOKING TO INTIMIDATE
Giving the SQ7 its distinctive style are elements such as double slats in the Singleframe grille and a three-dimensional blade in the bumper. The side inlets feature a honeycomb grid. The quad-exhausts at the rear hint at the SUV’s performance.
As an S-model, the wing mirror housings are finished in aluminium, while other attachments come in matte silver. If this is too much bling, customers can specify the black styling package, which sees the frame and other components finished in black.
The SQ7 is equipped with 21-inch wheels as standard, with 285/40 series tyres. Buyers can specify 22-inch wheels with 285/35 series tyres if desired.
Large wheels allow for equally large brakes. The SQ7’s front and rear brake discs measure 400mm and 350mm respectively. Carbon-ceramic discs measuring 420mm (front) and 370mm (rear) with anthracite grey callipers, are available as an option.
SPORTY CABIN
The SQ7 features sports seats with integrated head restraints and pneumatically adjustable side bolsters. They are upholstered in Valcona leather with a rhombus pattern, and come in either Black, Rotor Gray or Arras Red.
The inlays come in matte brushed aluminium, but can optionally be made or carbon or grey, high-gloss oak veneer. Stainless steel is utilised for the pedals, footrest and loading sill protector.
On-board infotainment consists of the MMI touch response control system, which features 10.1-inch and 8.6-inch screens. A voice control system, activated by “Hey Audi”, helps enhance usability.
Virtual cockpit plus with S-specific views is standard in the SQ7. It lets the driver activate various screens, including an S-performance layout. The third-generation modular infotainment platform (MIB3), powers the control and infotainment concept.
Given the SQ7’s size, the standard park assist plus function can be helpful to drivers. The system manoeuvres the car in and out of the parallel or perpendicular parking space with a button press – it controls the accelerator, brake steering and gearbox when active.
V8 PUNCH
Beneath the SQ7’s big bonnet is a bi-turbo 4-litre V8 producing 500hp (373kW) and 770Nm, the latter available between 2000 and 4000rpm. In spite of its 2.2-tonne mass, the SUV does zero to 100km/h in 4.1 seconds.
To help lessen fuel consumption, the 3996cc V8 features cylinder on demand (COD), which deactivates four of the eight cylinders under light engine load conditions. The motor is paired to an 8-speed automatic.
Quattro all-wheel-drive is standard. During regular driving, the mechanical centre differential distributes torque between the front and rear axles at a ratio of 40:60. Up to 70% of the torque can be directed to the front, and up to 85% can be sent to the rear when needed.
When the optional advanced suspension package is specified, the sport differential replaces the stock one.
It can shift the torque between the rear wheels via two multi-plate clutches to ensure that the wheel with more grip receives greater torque, thereby enhancing handling. The advanced suspension package also includes electromechanical active roll stabilization (EAWS).
Buyers who want a sportier-looking SUV can also look forward to the SQ8, which is slated to reach Singapore later this year.
SPECIFICATIONS
Audi SQ7 4.0 (A)
ENGINE 3996cc, 32-valves, V8, twin-turbocharged
MAX POWER 500hp (373kW) at 5500rpm
MAX TORQUE 770Nm at 2000-4000rpm
POWER TO WEIGHT 220.8hp per tonne
GEARBOX 8-speed automatic with manual select
0-100KM/H 4.1 seconds
TOP SPEED 250km/h (governed)
CONSUMPTION 7.5km/L (combined)
PRICE INCL. COE From $500,951 (after $25k VES surcharge)
AGENT Premium Automobiles
