Audi SQ8 Slotted for 17 March India Launch: Bridging the Gap Between Q8 and RS Q8

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The launch date of the Audi SQ8, a key addition to Audi's flagship SUV family, has been announced by Audi India. The long-awaited SUV is set for launch on 17 March 2026. It sits perfectly between the standard Q8 and the high-power RS Q8.

This SUV is built for drivers who want V8 performance without the extreme price of the RS version. Also, it is arriving as a Completely Built Unit (CBU). This means the car is imported fully assembled, highlighting its premium status.

Filling the Gap: V8 Power for Daily Driving


Audi SQ8 is designed to be the ‘Goldilocks’ of the lineup. It is much more powerful than the 340 hp V6 engine found in the base Q8. However, it is also easier to drive every day than the track-focused RS Q8. The SQ8 uses the same 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine as its top model, but it has been tuned to offer a smoother experience.

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According to a report from Hindustan Times, "The SQ8 derives its power from a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine.” It also added that the SUV is “tuned for 507 bhp and 770 Nm of torque." This massive engine helps the SUV go from 0 to 100 kmph in just 4.1 seconds.
Audi also includes quattro all-wheel drive as a standard feature to keep the car stable. It also integrates adaptive air suspension and rear-wheel steering. These features help the large SUV feel nimble and easy to handle on busy Indian roads.

What is Audi SQ8’s True Value Proposition and Competitive Edge?


The SQ8 enters a crowded market against the Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 and the BMW X5 M60i. However, Audi has a unique advantage currently. The company recently decided to keep making internal combustion engines (ICE) for at least another ten years.

According to CarWale, the estimated price of Audi SQ8 sits between Rs. 1.50 crore and Rs. 2.00 crore, which is roughly Rs. 60-80 lakhs cheaper than the RS Q8. Even so, it still matches nearly 80% of the performance offered by RS Q8. Furthermore, Audi is offering a 10-year extended warranty and 15-year roadside assistance.

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SQ8's launch proves that the V8 engine still has a future in India. This model will likely attract customers who might have previously settled for the basic Q8. Since fast-charging stations are still rare in rural areas, this powerful petrol SUV remains the best choice for long-distance travel.