cars news 10: Audi SQ7 TDI Debuts with Electric Compressor, 435 HP

Audi has unveiled a performance variant of its Q7 SUV, the diesel-powered SQ7 TDI. Following in the footsteps of the SQ5 and RS Q3, the SQ7 is Audi’s largest performance crossover and features the world’s first electric powered compressor, the automaker says. The electric compressor, placed in the air path downstream of the intercooler and close to the engine, has a wheel that spins at up to 70,000 rpm to provide immediate boost.

Powering the Audi SQ7 TDI is a 4.0-liter diesel V-8 with three turbochargers including one that’s electrically powered. The two conventional exhaust-gas turbochargers work sequentially while the electric turbo assists at lower engine speeds for improved off-the-line acceleration. In total, the engine produces 435 hp and a staggering 664 lb-ft of torque from 1,000 to 3,250 rpm. Handling shifting duties is the familiar eight-speed automatic transmission that’s found on most of Audi’s large models including the A6, A7, and A8. Quattro all-wheel drive is standard on the SQ7 TDI and features a self-locking center differential.

Other go fast goodies available on the Audi SQ7 include a Driving Dynamics package that comes with a sport differential, all-wheel steering, and an electromechanical active roll stabilization system. The car also features adjustable air springs, shock absorbers, and roll force distribution for improved handling and stability. Body roll stabilization uses a compact electric motor with a three-stage planetary gearbox to keep the car’s body motion in check. Additionally, the front and rear stabilizers are independently adjustable while the rear wheels can turn in up to five degrees to improve low speed maneuverability.

Like the standard Q7, the Audi SQ7 relies on the use of aluminum to keep its curb weight down. The car’s exterior design makes it known as a member of the Audi S lineup. It features a large radiator grille with silver surrounds and silver side mirror covers. LED headlights are standard, but in Europe, buyers can opt for Audi’s Matrix LED headlights. Each headlight divides its high beam into 30 individual LEDs paired with three reflectors.

Inside, the SQ7’s cabin can be specified with seating for five or seven. Unique touches include a choice between two types of sport seats, a second row that slides and folds, gray-faced instrument clusters with white needles, and customizable ambient interior lighting. Audi’s Virtual Cockpit with a 12.3-inch TFT display and MMI infotainment system with touch controls are available along with a Wi-Fi hotspot and smartphone interface that’s compatible with iOS and Android. A 23-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium audio system with 1,920 watts is also available. Also look for Audi’s full range of driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection.

The Audi SQ7 TDI will go on sale in Europe this spring, but it’s unlikely to make its way to the U.S. very soon especially with the Volkswagen Group still embroiled in the diesel emissions scandal.

Source: Audi