2020 launch confirmed for refreshed Audi SQ7

AUDI Australia has confirmed that the facelifted version of its thumping V8 diesel SQ7 will be launched locally in the first half of 2020, arriving close on the heels of the similarly revised Q7 range.

Changes to the flagship SUV will be mainly cosmetic, in line with new Q7 and recently unveiled SQ8 that will also touch down in Australia in the first half of 2020 in a busy period for the local branch of the Ingolstadt brand.

Rather than the horizontal grille slats of the current SQ7, the latest version gets six vertical chrome bars within the familiar single-frame grille.

The new-look headlights are now matrix LED headlamps with revised LED daytime running lights and dynamic indicators. The tail-lights also get an LED makeover in a rear end that also includes a revised rear bumper and diffuser.

The 21-inch cast aluminium wheels get a five-double V-spoke design.

Some of the biggest changes are to the interior where the SQ7 gets the SQ8’s fully digital cabin with the latest connectivity, including a Wi-Fi hotspot, voice control, traffic information in Google Maps sat-nav and cloud-based Amazon Alexa voice service.

The powertrain is carried over from the current SQ7 that was launched locally in December 2016. This includes the 4.0-litre turbo-diesel V8 that produces 320kW of power and 900Nm of torque – sufficient to power the two-tonne-plus large SUV from standstill to 100km/h in 4.8 seconds and on to a limited 250km/h.

One of the secrets of the deep well of torque from this engine is an electric compressor that helps to boost the engine at low revs, until the big twin turbochargers get up a head of steam.

Powered by a 48-volt electrical system, the compressor can spin to 70,000rpm in 250 milliseconds to provide greater low-speed torque.

This torque is put to the ground via an eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission and quattro all-wheel-drive system with active torque distribution.

Sports-tuned air suspension is standard, along with a progressive steering system that becomes increasingly direct as the steering angle increases.

This steering sharpness is enhanced by all-wheel steering that can turn the rear wheels up to five degrees in the opposite direction to increase agility at low speed, and then in the same direction as the front wheels at high speeds to improve stability.

The suspension includes electromechanical active roll stabilisation to improve ride and stability over bumps and corners.

Front brakes discs measure 400mm, while the rears are 370mm.

Pricing will be announced closer to launch, but as a guide, the current SQ7 retails for $161,900 plus on-road costs. A Black Edition version goes for $174,900.