New Audi SQ8 TDI Spied Uncamouflaged In Copenhagen

The secret to those 435 PS and 900 Nm (664 pound-feet) is an electric compressor, which helps the smaller and larger exhaust-gas turbochargers work their magic across the range. Peak torque is available from as low as 1,000 up to 3,250 rpm, which is outstanding for an engine that relies on compression ignition.

Following the SQ7, Audi plans to shoehorn the 4.0-liter V8 TDI into the SQ8 as the new flagship of the range. At least until the RS Q8 comes along, expected to boast the plug-in hybrid powertrain first seen on the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid.

Spied without any sort of camouflage by the carparazzi at pro-street.dk, this prototype was strolling together with a convoy of Audi test mules in Copenhagen. Over in the United States of America, Audi could leave the SQ8 TDI out of the lineup or replace the engine with the 3.0-liter TFSI V6.

If the four-ringed automaker doesn’t take inspiration from the Q8 Sport Concept, then we’re guessing the 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 in the S6 and S7 could be offered on the SQ8 in North America. Regardless of what will make it under the hood of the newcomer, an eight-speed automatic transmission will come standard.

Word has it Audi could even drop the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 from the Panamera Turbo in the SQ8, which sounds like the right thing to do if the RS Q8 gets plug-in hybrid assistance from the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid. In regard to timing, the 2019 Detroit Auto Show in January could be the venue where the SQ8 will make its world premiere.

The cheapest Q8 in the United States comes with 335 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque from the 3.0-liter V6 TFSI, starting at $67,400 for the Premium trim level with quattro all-wheel drive. The Premium Plus and Prestige level up to $71,400 and $76,550.