By Khulekani Dumisa

It looks like Audi South Africa is off to a busy start. Earlier this week, they announced the local availability of the RS4 Avant and RS5 range, and now they have confirmed the local availability of the of the V8 turbodiesel powered Audi SQ7 and SQ8.

Diesel power

This is not just any diesel V8 but the most powerful diesel engine in the Audi stable. It kicks out 310 kW of power and 900 Nm of torque. The twin-turbo V8 accelerates both models from 0-100 km/h in 4.8 seconds. The top speed is limited at 250 km/h. Depending on the equipment, the SQ7 TDI consumes around 8.7L/100 km in a combined cycle whereas the SQ8 TDI asks for 8.3L/100 km.

Looks

Both models come clad in S-specific details. The front features double slats in the singleframe grille and a distinctly three-dimensional blade in the bumper, while the side air inlets are filled with a honeycomb grid.

If the customer ordered the black styling package, the frame as well as other exterior parts (roof rails, trim strips on side windows, mirrors and front and rear bumpers) are finished in black paint. A panoramic glass is standard.

As standard, the Audi SQ7 and SQ8 are fitted with 21-inch Audi Sport wheels with an option to upgrade to 22-inch (for the SQ7) and up to 23-inch (for the SQ8). Brake discs measuring 400 millimetres in diameter are fitted to the front axle, with 350 millimetre discs on the rear axle. The red brake callipers feature an S logo on the front axle and are standard for both models.

Inside

The sport seats are upholstered in Valcona leather and come standard with a heating function in the front and memory function for both front seats. Their backrests feature S embossing and colour-coordinated contrasting stitching. The inlays are made of matt brushed aluminium. There also illuminated door sill trims with aluminium inlays with the S logo at the front. The pedals, the footrest, and the loading sill protector are made of stainless steel. As an option, Audi will install S sport seats plus with integrated head restraints.

A third seat row is available for the Audi SQ7.

In terms of infotainment, the MMI touch response control system integrates two large displays in the centre of the instrument panel. They have a 10.1-inch and 8.6-inch screen, and respond with haptic and acoustic feedback to all finger input. The two S models provide a natural language voice control system as a second control level. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.

The Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System with 3D sound is also available and integrates an amplifier that outputs 1,920 watts and actuates up to 23 speakers.

Pricing

The models are priced as follows (inclusive of all taxes) and comes standard with a five year Audi Freeway Plan:

Audi SQ7 TDI Quattro                              R 1,679,500

Audi SQ8 TDI Quattro                               R1,848,500

Audi SA says, the SQ7 and SQ8 TDI are officially available for sale in South Africa in limited numbers as part of a once-off launch opportunity.