The V8 has been tuned to produce similar power levels as the RS Q8.
The Audi SQ7 was the most powerful diesel SUV when it was first unveiled in March 2016. The TDI engine was kept with the midcycle facelift, but the gasoline engine has replaced it. It now has the same TFSI unit in Europe as its American counterpart. This is good news and bad news, depending on your side.
Some argue that a diesel engine with its high-end low-end torque and higher fuel economy is better suited for large and heavy vehicles, while others disagree. It’s a little odd that Audi has not done a full-fat RSQ7 (there is no RSQ5 either), since all hardware is already in the RSQ8. This SQ7 TFSI, which is an upgraded version of the flagship model, is not to be taken lightly.
This Sepang Blue example was shot by Motor1.com buddy in Warsaw, Poland. The twin-turbo V8 engine has been reworked to produce more power. Although the 4.0-liter unit is now capable of 590 pound-feet (880 Newton-meters), it still has 74 lb-ft (100 nm) less torque than the extinct SQ7 TDI diesel engine.
Horsepower has been increased by 10% to 550 hp, or 41 hp less than the RS Q8’s muscle. The luxobarge now reaches 62 mph (100 km/h), in just 3.7 seconds. This is impressive considering its size and weight. It could have been equipped with RS badges or dual oval exhausts to make it more like a tuner’s RS Q7. However, the angry exhaust note is very similar to what you’d expect from an Audi Sport-designed SUV.
The vehicle weighs in at 2,399 kg (5,291 lbs) and although it lacks the sharp handling of a true performance car, the acceleration off the line is comparable. The RS Q8 looks sleek and sporty, but the Q7 is more muscular and imposing. Therefore, we think it deserves the full-fledged RS treatment. Tuners can make you an informal one if your budget allows.