Limited-edition Audi SQ7 and SQ8 – How many sold in South Africa

Earlier in 2021, Audi made the diesel-powered SQ7 and SQ8 available in South Africa as part of a “limited, once-off TDI engine launch opportunity”.

The SQ7 TDI Quattro – at a starting price of R1,679,500 – went on to sell out, while the SQ8 TDI Quattro – at a starting price of R1,848,500 – still has a few units on offer.

“There were around 90 units for sale at launch,” Audi South Africa told TopAuto.

It also provided feedback on the SQ8’s availability in the country.

“The reason why they still appear on our website is because there are still a few SQ8 units up for sale.”

While this might be the case, interested buyers are out of luck if they want a personalised SQ8 TDI.

“Customers would have to buy the TDI units that are in stock and wouldn’t be able to order according to their desired specification,” said the company.

“Audi SA is still evaluating the opportunity of introducing an Audi SQ7/SQ8 TFSI engine in the future.”

Audi SQ8 TDI specs

The Audi SQ8 TDI features the most powerful diesel engine currently available in South Africa, with this monstrous 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged unit generating 310kW and 900Nm.

The substantial power is fed to all wheels via an eight-speed tiptronic gearbox, allowing the large SUV to sprint to 100km/h in 4.8 seconds.

A top speed of 250km/h is also on the cards, while claimed combined fuel consumption is 8.3l/100km.

During regular driving, the purely mechanical centre differential distributes torque to the front axle and rear axle at a ratio of 40:60.

“If traction decreases at one axle, it directs most of the torque to the other axle – up to 70% to the front or up to 85% to the rear axle.”

The SQ8 TDI then sits on adaptive air suspension as standard – which can adjust body height by 90mm – with rear-wheel-steering up to an angle of 5 degrees making the SUV easy to maneuver in tight spaces – while simultaneously making it more stable during high-speed direction changes.

Inside, the premium SUV offers a myriad of cutting-edge features – including a 10.1-inch digital instrument cluster, an 8.1-inch infotainment display, a panoramic sunroof, four-zone climate control, Matrix LED lights, and adaptive cruise control.

Each purchase of an Audi SQ8 TDI Quattro includes a 5-year/100,000km Audi Freeway Plan.