Audi SQ8 Performance SUV Set for India Launch on March 17, 2026
Audi India is poised to introduce the highly anticipated Audi SQ8 performance SUV to the Indian market on March 17, 2026. This new model strategically positions itself between the standard Q8 and the top-tier RS Q8 within Audi's flagship SUV lineup. The SQ8 is designed to offer a compelling blend of everyday practicality and high-performance capabilities, effectively bridging the gap between the comfort-focused Q8 and the more extreme, power-oriented RS Q8.
With this addition, the Q8 range in India will expand to encompass three distinct variants: the standard Q8, the performance-focused SQ8, and the range-topping RS Q8. Ahead of its official debut, here are the essential details about this new luxury performance vehicle.
Audi SQ8: Exterior Design and Styling
The Audi SQ8 builds upon the distinctive coupe-SUV silhouette of the standard Q8, incorporating several sport-oriented design enhancements. At the front, it features a prominent single-frame grille adorned with a honeycomb pattern and darkened elements. Flanking the grille are LED headlamps with unique daytime running light signatures, complemented by a revised bumper that includes larger air intakes and sharper detailing for a more aggressive appearance.
From the side profile, the SUV maintains the sleek sloping roofline and commanding wide stance characteristic of the Q8. It rides on large, exclusive S-specific alloy wheels and bears SQ8 badging on the front fenders. A strong shoulder line elegantly connects the front and rear sections, with select variants featuring dark exterior trim on elements like mirror caps and window surrounds.
The rear design is highlighted by a full-width LED light bar and a contoured tailgate. The bumper integrates a diffuser-style element, and the quad exhaust outlets—two on each side—serve as a key visual identifier of its performance pedigree. A roof-mounted spoiler completes the sporty and aerodynamic design.
Audi SQ8: Interior Layout and Features
Inside, the Audi SQ8 retains the fundamental cabin architecture of the standard Q8 but enriches it with sport-focused elements. The dashboard is dominated by a dual touchscreen setup seamlessly integrated into the centre console. The upper display manages the infotainment system, while the lower screen handles climate control and various vehicle functions.
Audi's advanced Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster provides fully configurable displays, including performance-oriented views. The SUV is equipped with a flat-bottom, leather-wrapped steering wheel featuring S badging and paddle shifters for enhanced driver engagement. The centre console boasts a gloss-black finish and houses an electronic gear selector.
Ambient lighting and premium materials are used throughout the cabin to elevate the luxury experience. Sport seats upholstered in a combination of leather and Alcantara come as standard, offering contrast stitching, S logos, and greater lateral support compared to those in the standard Q8. Rear seat space remains consistent with the base model, ensuring practicality is not compromised.
Audi SQ8: Advanced Features and Safety Systems
In terms of features, the SQ8 is generously equipped with twin 12.3-inch screens—one for the instrument cluster and another for the infotainment system. It includes a premium B&O music system, a steering wheel with S-line badging, S-specific graphics in the instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, advanced connected car technology, multi-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and powered front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions.
Safety is paramount, with the SQ8 offering multiple airbags, an anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), traction control, park assist, a 360-degree camera, front and rear parking sensors, a tyre pressure monitoring system, and ISOFIX child seat anchors. The model is also expected to incorporate Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking.
Audi SQ8: Powertrain and Performance Specifications
Under the hood, the Audi SQ8 is powered by a formidable 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, shared with the RS Q8 but in a lower state of tune. In the SQ8 configuration, this engine delivers an impressive 507 horsepower and 770 Newton-meters of torque. This contrasts with the 640 horsepower and 850 Newton-meters in the RS Q8, and the standard Q8's 3.0-litre turbo-petrol engine that produces 340 horsepower and 500 Newton-meters.
The SQ8 is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that channels power to all four wheels via Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system. This setup enables the SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in a claimed 4.1 seconds, underscoring its performance credentials.
Audi SQ8: Launch Details and Market Competition
The new Audi SQ8 is scheduled for launch in the Indian market on March 17, 2026. It will be imported via the Completely Built Unit (CBU) route, with prices expected to start upwards of Rs 1.6 crore (ex-showroom). Upon its arrival, the SQ8 will enter a competitive segment, vying against rivals such as the Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe, BMW X5 M60i, Porsche Cayenne, and Maserati Grecale, offering Indian luxury car enthusiasts a compelling new option in the high-performance SUV space.
