The performance version of the Q8, Audi's recently launched SQ8, is something AutoAdvisor was rather keen to experience. We're great fans of the regular Q8 model, especially when fitted with the creamy-smooth V6 TDI.
Equipped with a turbodiesel V8 (boasting 310 kW and 900 Nm of torque), we pointed the big brute towards Durban to test out its family carrying and cruising capabilities.
STYLING
Style is subjective, but we're yet to find anyone who doesn't like the looks of Audi's svelte SQ8. And that's no mean feat - while the BMW X6 and GLE-Coupe have enjoyed relative success, their styling is rather divisive, with some calling both ugly. Audi's take on a coupe SUV is rather more successful, we think. The SQ8 we tested came with some added aesthetic enhancements. Coated in Navarra Blue Metallic (a R4 620 option) it looked not only classy, but distinctive too. The 22-inch 5-Y spoke alloy, at R40 000, is pricey - but it looks great. Along with the other usual 'S' trimmings, red brake calipers add just a touch of aggression.
INTERIOR
Perhaps the highlight of the car, Audi's SQ8 features what is undoubtedly one of the best cabins in the business. Minimalist, elegant and modern, the facia is welcoming and contemporary - without being cold. Open the pillar-less door and you're greeted by swathes of leather, aluminium trim and plush carpeting. Despite the slick roofline, there's plenty of interior space. In the rear, two adults will fit with ease, the plush seating enveloping them in comfort. Two USB ports are there to keep devices charged on a long trip. What's more, rear passengers were treated to separate climate controls and heated seats (a R6 270 option) - a boon on those cold winter mornings.
Up front, the optional seat ventilation and massage function (R24 260) heightens the already tall levels of luxury, while providing supreme comfort on the long road. Being a large car, manoeuvring such a large car can prove to be a cumbersome affair in tight spaces - not so in the SQ8. The brilliant 360-degree parking cameras make parking (or exiting a tight bay) an absolute breeze, with clear and concise guidance assisting you out of tricky situations.
As befitting a luxury SUV, the sound system fitted to our test unit was superb. Crisp and clear, at R81 390, the optional Bang and Olufsen Advanced Sound System with 3D sound is pricey, though. The boot is simply massive, offering up a generous 605 litres of luggage space. Fold the seats down and you have a vast 1 755 litres of utility space at your disposal.
ENGINE AND PERFORMANCE
The engine is an absolute masterpiece. From start-up to acceleration, it's rather bewildering to think that the SQ8 is powered by a diesel engine. It's so smooth, and sound so fantastic, that it had some of us scratching our heads after a brief drive. On the long road however, it simply excels - the 4.0-litre, turbodiesel V8 is an absolute masterpiece. With 310 kW and a monstrous 900 Nm of torque on tap, it can shift its near two-tonne weight to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds. Despite that (and the 250 km/h top speed) it can easily return 8.3 L/100 km.
It sounds good too, with a throaty V8 growl emanating from the four exhaust pipes. Overall, the engine is absolutely sublime - it's smooth, the fuel consumption is fantastic and what's more, it's great fun. It seems you can have your cake and eat it, too.
Despite the 22-inch alloy wheels, the ride quality (courtesy of air suspension) is superb. It does get caught out by sharp ridges and larger potholes, but overall it rides brilliantly. If, however, you prefer your SQ8 to roll down the road with a softer edge, we'd recommend selecting a smaller (and cheaper) alloy wheel.
VERDICT
I think it's clear that we were rather taken by this turbodiesel delight from Audi. It's marvellous, quite simply. The 900 Nm V8 powerplant (and incredible styling) lends the big bruiser from Ingoldstadt plenty of charisma. Priced at just under R1.9 million, it's certainly not cheap. But as a package, we're struggling to think of anything in this segment that offers this much style, value for money, economy and performance for a similar price. Its closest rival, the BMW X6 M50d, is not only less powerful but more expensive, too. For what it's worth, we think the Audi is better looking as well. It's a phenomenal car, the SQ8 TDI - if you can afford it, we say go for it.
Also worth a look: the Audi Rs3 and the Out with the Old, In with the New: Audi A5 Replaces A4 in So.
FAQ
Q: What does the Audi SQ8 TDI Quattro cost in South Africa?
The Audi SQ8 TDI Quattro starts at around R1,850,000 in South Africa, though this can climb significantly with options like the R40,000 22-inch wheels and R24,260 massage seats that can push the total well over R2,000,000.
Q: Is the Audi SQ8 TDI Quattro worth buying?
The SQ8 TDI is worth buying if you want the best combination of luxury, performance and practicality in a large SUV, with its 310 kW V8 diesel delivering incredible torque while still being family-friendly for long trips to Durban.
Q: How powerful is the Audi SQ8 TDI engine?
The SQ8 TDI packs a turbodiesel V8 engine producing 310 kW and a massive 900 Nm of torque, making it one of the most powerful diesel SUVs you can buy in South Africa.
Q: Does the Audi SQ8 have good interior space despite the coupe roofline?
Despite its sleek coupe styling, the SQ8 offers plenty of interior space with comfortable seating for two adults in the rear, pillarless doors for easy access, and luxury touches like heated rear seats and separate climate controls.
Q: What are the best Audi SQ8 colour and wheel options?
The Navarra Blue Metallic paint (R4,620) combined with the 22-inch 5-Y spoke alloys (R40,000) creates the most striking look, though the wheel option alone costs as much as a decent hatchback.
Should You Buy It?
Yes, the Audi SQ8 TDI Quattro is absolutely worth buying if you have around R2,000,000 to spend on the ultimate family performance SUV in South Africa. This is the best high-performance diesel SUV under R2,500,000 in SA, combining a thunderous 310 kW V8 with genuine family practicality and one of the most beautiful interiors in the business. While the options can get expensive quickly, the base SQ8 at R1,850,000 already comes loaded with luxury and that monster torque figure of 900 Nm makes it perfect for both school runs and weekend getaways to the coast. Just budget extra for those gorgeous 22-inch wheels because the standard ones won't do this stunner justice.
