Audi SQ7 2020 Car Review

Its interior features, which include sport seats, MMI navigation plus, touch operation, and the Audi virtual cockpit (including performance view) all come as standard, while the impressive 4.0 TDI V8 engine provides powerful propulsion with an electrically powered compressor (EPC).

The recipe behind the power

A 48-volt electrical subsystem feeds the compressor that assists the two turbochargers whenever the load demand from the accelerator is high, and the available energy in the exhaust gas is still low. As a result, the tremendous torque is available instantaneously, at any time, when accelerating from low speeds, and in particular from a standing start. Depending on the situation, the mild hybrid system, which also uses the 48V system, can switch off the engine while driving, which puts the car into “sailing mode” and ultimately reduces fuel consumption.

A quick-shifting eight-speed tiptronic transmission and the Quattro permanent all-wheel drive put the immense power of the 4.0 TDI down onto the road. The standard sport air suspension and progressive steering, of which the ratio becomes increasingly direct as the steering angle increases, creates excellent driving dynamics and a thrilling user experience.

Standing out from the crowd

The Audi SQ7 features the current design of the Q models with added S-specific details. It stands apart from the base model with its single-frame, octagonal-design front grill with vertical double slats, exterior aluminium-look mirror housings, and a quad exhaust tailpipes system – synonymous with performance Audis - with round, chrome trims. The blade in the rear bumper has a three-dimensional shape, and the underbody protection at the rear looks even sturdier.

For an additional $13,000, a Performance package can also be added to the spec, giving you racy red brake callipers, active roll stabilization suspension and sports differential to further intensify the driving experience.

A world-class cabin

You control the MMI Navigation plus with MMI touch response, via two large colour displays in the centre console. The touchscreen feels even more premium thanks to tangible and audible feedback at every button press.

For longer trips, the Audi SQ7 offers you a variety of features. For example, you can use the point-of-interest search to find notable buildings and services in your area, real-time traffic information will help you to avoid the next traffic jam, and the inclusion of Google Earth™ navigation feels familiar when heading to your destination

It wasn’t until I looked back at the previous (2017) model, that I realised just how much the Audi SQ7 has progressed. Both the interior and exterior enhancements have helped take the Audi SQ7 into the next level of style and functionality, the likes of which we saw last year when the Audi e-tron EV was released.

 Safety systems

• ABS brake system with EBD
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
• Driver/passenger airbags, side, front, rear, and curtain airbag systems
• Adaptive cruise control with swerve assist, turn assist and emergency assist
• Audi Pre Sense Front/Rear with Collision Avoidance and Turn Assists
• Audi Pre Sense Rear
• Audi Lane Change Assistant with exit warning system and rear cross traffic alert
• Electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), Electronic differential lock (EDL)
• Traction Control (ASR)