Audi Brings 2020 Audi SQ7, SQ8 SUVs to US Market
With a humongous 48 percent share of the US market in 2018, America sure loves its SUVs, and Audi is only happy to oblige the preference. As such, the German luxury car brand is bringing both the SQ7 and its bigger sibling SQ8 to American shores. Thanks to the US’ more lax emissions laws, the SUVs will be a lot more powerful than their European counterparts.
Equipped with a 4.0-liter TFSI V8 engine, both SUVs can do 500 hp, accelerate from 0 to 100 kmh in 4.4 secs, and attain a top speed of 250 kmh. Featuring the highly regarded Q design language, the 2020 Audi SQ7 and SQ8 deliver performance and practicality in the premium package that the brand is known for.
Comparatively, the Euro-spec models offer a 4.0-liter TDI diesel V8 power mill that packs a no-less mighty 429 hp. This unit is an acceleration time that’s 0.5 secs slower than the US version, albeit top speed is the same, thanks to an electronic limiter.
As for aesthetic differences between the incoming and outgoing model, the 2020 SQ7 and SQ8 are differentiated with Alu-optic or Black-optic design elements, including air intake blades, side sill blades, standard silver mirror caps and quad exhaust outlets. SQ7 models carry a new octagonal Singleframe grille and will come with 20- or 21-inch wheel designs. The SQ8 will also feature an Alu-optic grille surround and will have standard 21- and available 22-inch wheel designs.
With that said, everything else about the two SUVs are practically the same as the one you’ll find on the other side of the world.
Cornering capabilities are enhanced by the optional Quattro sport differential. From the standard 40:60 torque split, the Quattro boosts rear axle power to 80 percent, with the added ability to transfer torque from side-to-side at the rear wheels to aid in handling.
Among the bevy of helpful driver aid technologies is the standard all-wheel steering that can turn the rear wheels in the opposite direction of the front wheels to aid low-speed maneuverability and handling, as well as stability at higher speeds. Buyers can also opt for the electromechanical active roll stabilization feature, which can stiffen the front and rear stabilizer bars when dynamic driving takes precedence over cruising.
Both models are set to arrive at US Audi dealerships sometime in the middle of 2020. Audi will furnish pricing, available packages, and other sales information as the on-sale date nears.
