The Audi SQ8 (4M, facelift 2023) represents the performance-oriented variant of Audi’s large luxury SUV, the Q8. Introduced in September 2023, this iteration builds upon the mid-cycle refresh of the 4M Q8 platform, offering a substantial increase in power and a refined driving experience. Positioned as the flagship performance SUV in Audi’s lineup below the RS Q8, the SQ8 caters to buyers seeking a blend of luxury, practicality, and exhilarating performance. It primarily competes with high-performance SUVs from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche within the North American and European markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | SQ8 |
| Generation | SQ8 (4M, facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | 4.0 TFSI V8 (507 Hp) quattro tiptronic |
| Start of production | September, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 12-12.8 l/100 km (19.6 – 18.4 US mpg, 23.5 – 22.1 UK mpg, 8.3 – 7.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 272-291 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6e |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.4 kg/Hp, 226.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.9 kg/Nm, 343.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 507 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 126.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 770 Nm @ 2000-4000 rpm (567.92 lb.-ft. @ 2000-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | DWR |
| Engine displacement | 3996 cm3 (243.85 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 9.5 l (10.04 US qt | 8.36 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.9 l (15.74 US qt | 13.11 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2240 kg (4938.35 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2960 kg (6525.68 lbs.) |
| Max load | 720 kg (1587.33 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 605 l (21.37 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1755 l (61.98 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 85 l (22.45 US gal | 18.7 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3500 kg (7716.18 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 140 kg (308.65 lbs.) |
| Length | 5004 mm (197.01 in.) |
| Width | 1995 mm (78.54 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2190 mm (86.22 in.) |
| Height | 1708 mm (67.24 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2998 mm (118.03 in.) |
| Front track | 1684 mm (66.3 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1693 mm (66.65 in.) |
| Front overhang | 985 mm (38.78 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1021 mm (40.2 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.35 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.3 m (43.64 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 21.8° |
| Departure angle | 26.2° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 22.8° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2023 SQ8 is Audi’s 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, designated the DWR code. This engine produces 507 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and a robust 770 Nm (567.92 lb-ft) of torque available from 2,000 to 4,000 rpm. The engine utilizes a direct injection fuel system and employs a sophisticated engine management system to optimize performance and efficiency. The twin-turbochargers, positioned within the V of the engine, minimize turbo lag and provide a broad torque curve. The engine also features cylinder deactivation technology, allowing it to operate on four cylinders under light load conditions to improve fuel economy. Power is transmitted to all four wheels via Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission. The tiptronic transmission offers both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles.
Driving Characteristics
The SQ8’s 4.0 TFSI V8 and tiptronic transmission deliver impressive acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint is achieved in approximately 3.9 seconds, and the vehicle is electronically limited to a top speed of 155.34 mph. The eight-speed tiptronic transmission is well-tuned, providing smooth and responsive shifts. While not as overtly sporty as the RS Q8, the SQ8 offers a compelling balance between performance and comfort. The quattro all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions. Compared to the standard Q8’s engine options, the SQ8 offers a significantly more powerful and engaging driving experience. The higher output engine and sport-tuned suspension contribute to a more dynamic feel.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The SQ8 comes standard with a high level of equipment, including Audi’s virtual cockpit digital instrument cluster, a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic sunroof. Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras include a Bang & Olufsen sound system, massaging front seats, and a head-up display. Interior trim options typically include carbon fiber, wood, and aluminum accents. The SQ8’s interior is characterized by its high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail.
Chassis & Braking
The SQ8 features an independent multi-link suspension at both the front and rear axles. The suspension is specifically tuned for performance, offering a firmer ride than the standard Q8. Standard brakes consist of ventilated discs at all four corners. Larger, more powerful brakes are available as an option. The SQ8’s steering is precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback to the driver. The vehicle’s chassis is designed to provide a stable and controlled driving experience, even at high speeds.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2023 Audi SQ8 has been generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praise its powerful engine, comfortable ride, and luxurious interior. Fuel economy is a common criticism, with the SQ8 achieving approximately 19.6 – 18.4 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to its rivals, such as the BMW X5 M Sport and the Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 53, the SQ8 offers a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and value. The SQ8’s quattro all-wheel-drive system is often cited as a key advantage in inclement weather conditions.
Legacy
The 4.0 TFSI V8 engine has proven to be a reliable and durable powerplant in other Audi models. While long-term reliability data for the 2023 SQ8 is still emerging, the engine’s established track record suggests that it should provide years of dependable service. The SQ8’s blend of performance, luxury, and technology positions it as a desirable vehicle in the used car market. As with any high-performance vehicle, regular maintenance and adherence to recommended service intervals are crucial for ensuring long-term reliability.
