With the local arrival of the facelifted Audi Q7, SQ7 and RS Q8 Performance variants, the Ingolstadt-based brand has completed the revision of its Premium SUV line-up, including the Q8 and SQ8. We recently got to grips with a couple of the newcomers.
We have history, the Audi Q7 and I. It participated in my 1st-ever comparative test almost 2 decades ago. Naturally, it went up against the BMW X5, the very progenitor of the Premium SUV, where it came off victorious, albeit by the finest sliver. Today, in its 3rd iteration, the Audi Q7 continues to impress.
Furthermore, it has spawned a coupe-inspired twin (so, non-identical). Where the classic Q7 is a stately seven-seater, the Q8 trades manners for menace, hunkering down whilst simultaneously upping the kerbside presence, promising even more athletic performance.
In truth, the different models mostly have total parity in performance: the SQ7 is complemented by an equally powerful SQ8, while the base variants have matching powertrains too. It’s only the RS Q8 that benefits from total, unadulterated power as its unique selling point, but more about that later.
Where they differ besides the obvious profiles, is that the Q8 is 70 mm shorter than its conventional sibling. The cabin space is identical, so the coupe only sacrifices a bit of luggage capacity. Both have had their light clusters redesigned and the entire range benefits from new colours and wheel options.
Then, for bonus personalisation, Audi SA has created Platinum and Black Edition trim grades in both models, to further suit your style. At a glance, the Platinum adds 21-inch wheels, an S Line Interior and an adaptive air suspension, while Black adds black detailing, 22-inch alloys and rear security glass.
Aesthetically pleasing
Both the Audi Q7 and Q8 receive similar updates to their looks – most notably an elegant single-frame grille styled with L-shaped motifs. The B-pillar has now been endowed with a stylish, minimalistic depiction of the model name and for jewellery, the front end receives customisable digital headlamps.
The models’ rear ends also feature customisable OLEDs – and “hot” tailpipes, which is to say the tips are connected to the engine via the exhaust system (how retro) and not merely decorative bumper cutouts.
Speaking of the engine, in the base petrol variant (a turbodiesel version is in the pipeline) you can expect Audi’s prolific 55 TFSI variant, a hybridised 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 good for 250 kW and 500 Nm. The electric motor isn’t used for propulsion – instead, it aids and abets the 6-pot for better efficiency.
This is all sent to all 4 wheels (quattro) via an 8-speed auto transmission to endow the Q7 and Q8 with a zero to 100 kph sprint time of just 5.6 sec. The electronic governors will curb acceleration as soon as the 250-kph mark is reached, and there’s the (theoretical) fuel consumption of 9.9 L/100 km to consider.
Commendable stats, but I reckon if you’re looking for a large and potent Audi, the SQ7 is what you want.
The sweet spot
Now, this is more like it. Whereas the Q7 55 TFSI retails shy of R2m, the SQ7 can be had for R2 540 500. For that extra “half a bar”, you get to revel in a robust turbocharged V8 with 373 kW and 770 Nm.
Audi has made some attempts here to give the SQ7 (and, by extension, the SQ8) a few eco credentials, such as the ability to shut down 4 of its 8 cylinders when you’re not shunting about.
For our meander around Franschhoek, including jaunts up and down its infamous mountain pass, we mostly leaned on all 8 cylinders to enjoy the “down your spine” chills that come from an overzealous right foot and Hans Zimmer-like soundtrack.
Lock and load Dynamic mode, point and shoot at the nearest apex, then repeat until you’re sweaty.
How much does Audi Q7 and SQ7 cost in South Africa?
| Q7 55 TFSI quattro Tiptronic Platinum Edition | R1 958 000 |
| Q7 55 TFSI quattro Tiptronic Black Edition | R1 987 900 |
| SQ7 TFSI quattro Tiptronic | R2 540 500 |
| SQ7 TFSI quattro Tiptronic Black Edition | R2 574 500 |
Prices (March 2025) include a 5-year/100 000 km Audi Freeway (service and maintenance) Plan.
Find a new/used Audi Q7 listed for sale on Cars.co.za
Fina a new/used Audi SQ7 listed for sale on Cars.co.za
Okay, I’m ready to talk about the RS Q8
Once more, with feeling! If you’re ready for absolute power to corrupt you absolutely, then I think I can sell you an Audi. This one, the RS Q8 Performance, is blessed with no less than 471 kW and 850 Nm.
Ironically, it is technically also a mild hybrid. More importantly, it’s the marque’s most powerful production engine ever and carried the RS Q8 Performance to a crushing Nurburgring time of 7min36.6 sec.
At R3.3 million, it’s Audi’s apex Premium SUV, augmented with electromechanical stabilisation, a sports differential and RS ceramic stoppers (with blue callipers) peering behind those massive 24-inch alloys.
It is, by every definition an absolute weapon, so if its HD Matrix headlamps ever fill your rearview mirror, best move out its way. Oh, that’s not artillery fire, it’s a very active flap-endowed exhaust so, schnell!
How much does Audi Q8, SQ8 and RSQ8 cost in South Africa?
| Audi Q8 45TDI quattro Platinum Edition | R1 968 700 |
| Audi Q8 45TDI quattro Black Edition | R2 011 700 |
| Audi Q8 55TFSI quattro Platinum Edition | R2 015 400 |
| Audi Q8 55TFSI quattro Black Edition | R2 058 400 |
| Audi SQ8 TFSI quattro | R2 640 500 |
| Audi SQ8 TFSI quattro Black Edition | R2 675 500 |
| Audi RSQ8 quattro Performance | R3 266 100 |
Prices (March 2025) include a 5-year/100 000 km Audi Freeway (service and maintenance) Plan.
Find a new/used Audi Q8 listed for sale on Cars.co.za
Find a new/used Audi SQ8 listed for sale on Cars.co.za
Find a new/used Audi RS Q8 listed for sale on Cars.co.za
Summary
Before I forget, a more economical turbodiesel iteration of the Q7 is due to be released later this year… This 45 TDI model will certainly be the more sensible option and, with 183 kW and 600 Nm, it will hardly be a slouch. In truth, no matter which Premium SUV-flavoured Q model you settle on, you’ll encounter a Teutonic large luxury car rich in atmosphere with an engaging driving experience to match.
