2021 Audi SQ7 TDI – A sporty, high-tech diesel-powered

If you’re a fan of high-performance diesel cars, we’re here to tell you there are few cars that can top the 2021 Audi SQ7 TDI. The sporty, eye-catching SUV recently landed on South African shores along with the SQ8 TDI. Audi has added various S-specific elements, such as the chrome trim on the tailgate and the S-specific bumper with four tailpipes to make it a true sporty version of the Q7. 

Under the bonnet of the 2021 Audi SQ7 is a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 diesel engine churning out 310kW and exceptional 900Nm of torque. This enormous power goes to all four wheels through an eight-speed Tiptronic gearbox. The automaker says the new SQ7 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and tops out at 250 km/h. The fuel economy figures for the SQ7 stand at 8.7l/100km. The SQ8 is a little thirstier of the two, delivering 8.3l/100km.

If you’re not familiar with Audi's all-wheel-drive system, you should know that the SQ7 TDI employs the automaker's universal Quattro drivetrain with a mechanical centre differential. The system has the capability to offer a typical 40:60 front-to-rear torque split. But in some situations, it can deliver up to 70% to the front axle and 85% to the rear axle. 

The 2021 Audi SQ7 TDI has an adaptive air suspension sport system that enables you to adjust the ride height by up to 90mm. With this suspension, you can go 15mm lower to the road than the company's standard air suspension. It makes the SQ7 a perfect companion for those off-road adventures. For better manoeuvrability at slow speeds and more stability at quick sprints, you can go for the all-wheel steer. 

The 2021 Audi SQ7 TDI comes equipped with 21-inch Audi Sport wheels with an option to move to 22-inch wheels. The 400mm discs on the front axle and 350mm discs at the rear perform the braking job. 

Undoubtedly, Audi offers some of the best interior features you could get in a luxury car. The new SQ7 is no different. You would enjoy the electronically managed and heated sports seats covered in posh “Valcona” leather, a 30-colour ambient lighting system, a panoramic glass sunroof, stainless steel foot pedals, and Audi virtual cockpit with S-specific elements. The automaker has also fitted its flagship MMI touch response control system incorporating two big touchscreens (10.1-inch and 8.6-inch correspondingly) in the centre of the instrument panel.

The 2021 Audi SQ7 has already hit dealerships, however, only a handful of these performance SUVs are available. The Audi SQ7 TDI starts at R1,679,500, while the Audi SQ8 TDI costs R1,848,500. Both vehicles come with a five-year Audi Freeway Plan. (Prices correct at time of publication.)

If you’re as passionate about cars as we are, you’ll love reading the MotorHappy blog where every month we review at least two of the latest cars available in South Africa.