Audi SQ7 updated for 2019

This is the facelifted 2019 Audi SQ7 TDI, a high-performance version of Audi’s flagship SUV. It uses the same combination of mild-hybrid tech and V8 diesel power as the Audi SQ8 for a total power output of 429bhp. It’s due to arrive in the UK at the end of September, with prices starting from around £76,400.

The SQ7 has been updated to bring it into line with the latest Audi look. As usual, it has tweaked styling over the standard model with sportier front and rear bumpers, chunkier side-skirts, a quad exhaust setup and 20-inch alloy wheels. Audi’s Matrix LED headlights and soft-close powered doors are available as optional extras.

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The interior gets several upgrades over the standard Q7 too, with Alcantara trimmed sports seats, aluminium interior trim and stainless steel pedals. Optional upgrades include carbon fibre interior trim, a premium Bang & Olufsen stereo system and four-zone automatic air conditioning.

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The SQ7 also gets Audi’s 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit digital dial cluster and an 8.3-inch infotainment system that has Amazon Alexa, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Power comes from a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 diesel engine that produces 429bhp. The SQ7 also has a 48-volt mild-hybrid setup, which consists of a lithium-ion battery pack and a small electric motor. It powers an electric compressor that forces air into the engine while the turbochargers start working, reducing turbo lag to make the engine more responsive.

Using this system alone, the SQ7 can be driven at speeds of up to 14mph while recovering up to 8kW of energy under deceleration and braking.

The SQ7 can sprint from 0-62mph in 4.8 seconds before reaching an electronically limited 155mph. It’s also more efficient than before thanks to a claimed fuel economy figure of 37mpg and emissions of around 200g/km of CO2.

Power goes to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox and a sport differential. The differential can shuffle the engine’s power between the rear wheels, which Audi says helps reduce understeer during quick cornering.

Other changes over the standard Q7 include larger brakes to cope with the extra power, and sports air suspension. Optional upgrades include Audi’s all-wheel steering, an active electromechanical roll stabilisation system and carbon ceramic brake discs.

According to Audi, its all-wheel steering system makes the SQ7 easier to manoeuvre. At low speeds the rear wheels turn by five degrees in the opposite direction to the front wheels to reduce the car’s turning circle. At higher speeds, both the front and rear wheels turn in the same direction, improving handling and stability.

Do you want to know more about the Audi Q7? Why not read our full review or check out the review of the Audi SQ8.