Audi SQ8 Tipped To Get Both Gasoline And Diesel Engines

Audi finally has a premium mid-size SUV Coupe, the Q8, to rival the likes of the BMW X6 and Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, and it’s also planning some high-performance derivatives of it.

One of them is the SQ8, which is expected to launch in December. Autocar reports that the Ingolstadt-based car firm will release it with two powertrains, a gasoline and a diesel engine, depending on the market where it is sold.

After the Dieselgate scandal, don’t expect to see the oil burner in the United States, where customers prefer to have gasoline units in their performance rides anyway. It should use a 3.0-liter TFSI V6 engine, likely with an electric compressor and a classic turbocharger.

Also Read: Audi Q8 Vs. BMW X6 Vs. Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe: What’s Your Pick?

As for the diesel, this should be launched in Europe, probably with a 4.0-liter TDI V8 engine, making 435PS (429hp / 230kW) and 900Nm (664lb-ft) of torque. This recipe is already being used in the Audi SQ7, which needs 4.8sec for the 0-100km/h (0-62mph) sprint, and maxes out at 250km/h (155mph).

Our spy photographers recently caught an undisguised prototype of the upcoming Audi SQ8. The vehicle comes with more aggressively styled bumpers, quad exhaust pipes and a lowered suspension, alongside larger wheels.

Inside, the range-topping member, until the RS Q8 arrives, will benefit from sports seats, flat-bottom steering wheel and various trim updates.

Now that Audi has tapped into a new niche, they could expand their lineup furthermore, to the point where they might rival the Range Rover, with a possible Q9. The British magazine believes that such a ride “is under consideration”.

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