Audi SQ7 TDI unveiled, India launch by mid-2016

Audi AG has disclosed the specifications of the SQ7 TDI luxury SUV. The SQ7 TDI will be the top-end variant from the Q7 model series by Audi. Powering the SUV is a 4.0-litre V8 diesel engine which has been completely rebuilt with advancements in technology and performance with improved fuel management. The engine belts out 435PS of maximum power and an immense torque of 900Nm. All this power gets transmitted through an 8-speed automatic transmission which is further distributed to all four wheels by the Quattro system. The German manufacturer claims the SQ7 TDI to be the most powerful diesel SUV in the market.

The new engine features two turbochargers which have been placed between the cylinder banks. The turbo setup is designed to work on the concept of sequential charging where exhaust gasses flow only through one turbocharger for low and intermediate loads. The second turbo kicks-in when the engine is applied to high loads. This arrangement is accompanied by an electrically powered supercharger which further enhances the acceleration figures at low engine rpms.

Audi claims to be the first car manufacturer globally to implement the electric supercharger in a production vehicle. The electric supercharger which Audi calls ‘electric powered compressor’ (EPC) gets activated in less than a second before the first turbo generates boost. The EPC is capable of achieving 70,000 rpm when activated. Power is provided to the EPC from a lithium-ion battery pack which is located underneath the luggage compartment.

The manufacturer has also equipped the SQ7 TDI with Audi’s Valve lift system which also will be appearing for the first time in the SUV. The system manages the operation of both intake and exhaust valves for maximised breathing and controlling the flow or exhaust gases to the turbochargers.

The powerful and tech loaded Audi SQ7 TDI is scheduled to go on sale in the European market soon. The SQ7 will be launched in India by mid-2016 and will be seen competing against the likes of Mercedes GLS and the Volvo XC90 in the luxury SUV market.