Audi SQ7

The cabin of the Audi SQ7 is quite similar to the A8 sedan, albeit a few changes here and there. The flat-bottom steering wheel sits firm ahead of the Virtual Cockpit driver’s display from Audi. The dashboard has a touchscreen infotainment system, while there is another display in the centre console.

The seats are wrapped in the S embossed Valcona leather, and so is the steering wheel. The driver gets 4-way adjustable electric lumbar support. Moreover, even the third-row seat is extremely comfortable for the occupants.

The Audi SQ7 might look a lot similar to the standard Q series models on sale in a lot of countries around the world. However, it looks much more butch and muscular right from the onset. It is big and bulky and the wheelbase is pretty long. However, the rear end is slightly off-the-hook and portrays a different story. After all, the big tail light cluster does not have the combination split at the tailgate. The quad-exhaust pipes add a lot of sportiness.

The SUV rides on either of 20-inch, 21-inch or 22-inch alloy wheels, based on what the users specify. However, it does not get the laser LED front and OLED rear lights, even as an option, unlike the A8. There is a panoramic sunroof on offer and a dark tinted glass as well.

The Audi SQ7 has a very thumping engine, for sure. However, there is nothing that could take away the conversion of these figures into real road conditions. The TDI diesel is known for its effortless drive and can hit an acceleration figure of 0-100 kmph in just 4.9 seconds, thanks to the massive amount of torque on offer at a very low rev band of the tacho.

The S specific tuning of the steering wheel brings great handling to the drivers. The self-locking centre differential takes care of the torque distribution by sending down 60% of the available torque in normal driving conditions. However, this percentage can be changed to 85% as and when the road demands.

The Audi SQ7 keeps its image of being as SUV intact. It is powered by a TDI diesel engine that has a capacity of 4.0-litre (3,956 cc). This mill is capable of churning out a maximum power of 320 kW, along with a peak torque of 900 Nm, which kicks in at just 1,000 rpm.

The power is sent down to all the wheels via the Quattro all-wheel-drive system. An 8-speed Tiptronic automatic gearbox does the transmission duties.

The Audi SQ7 is one of the safest cars in the segment and does not miss out on a single safety feature. There are disc brakes for all the wheels (19-inch front and 18-inch rear) with red calipers. The anti-lock braking system, brake assist, and electronic brakeforce distribution are standard.

Inside the cabin, there is an optimum number of airbags given as standard, which is a great thing to have for all the occupants. The driver gets a lot of assistance in the form of Audi side assist, pre-sense for the front and rear, adaptive cruise control and traffic jam assist. There is also the hold assist and active lane assist added to the package.

The Audi SQ7 is just the SUV the Australian buyers are looking for. It has power, it has an elegant appearance, but without compromising on the comfort inside the cabin. However, due to the lack of a TFSI petrol, a lot of buyers would feel like missing out on the smoothness and elegance of a gas engine.