2020 Audi SQ7 And SQ8 Coming To America With A 500 HP Twin-Turbo V8

Audi introduced the SQ7 and SQ8 last year, and now the company has confirmed they’re coming to America.

While the European models have a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 diesel engine that produces 429 hp (320 kW / 435 PS) and 664 lb-ft (900 Nm), the US-spec crossovers are getting a more powerful petrol V8. It’s also a twin-turbo 4.0-liter unit, but it develops 500 hp (373 kW / 507 PS) and 568 lb-ft (769 Nm) of torque.

The engine is connected is an eight-speed automatic transmission which sends power to a standard quattro all-wheel drive system. This setup enables both models to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 4.3 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).

Also Read: 2020 Audi SQ8 Shows Diesels Are Alive And Well

Speaking of performance, the crossovers have an all-wheel steering system that can turn the rear wheels in the opposite direction of the front wheels. This helps to improve low-speed maneuverability and handling, as well as stability at higher speeds.

An assortment of options will be available including an electromechanical active roll stabilization system which can stiffen the front and rear stabilizer bars. Customers can also opt for a quattro sport differential which can send up to 80% of the power to the rear wheels.

On the styling front, the crossovers largely echo their European counterparts. As a result have silver mirror caps, a four-tailpipe sports exhaust system and Alu-optic or Black-optic styling details. The SQ7 will feature 20- and 21-inch alloy wheels, while the SQ8 adopts larger 21- and 22-inchers.

Audi didn’t say much about the interior, but confirmed the models will have front sport seats with cross-stitched leather that is unique to the performance variants. The seats will also feature heating and ventilation.

There’s no word on pricing at this point, but full details will be announced closer to their launch this spring.

Note: European models shown