Check out the Audi SQ7’s launch control in this new video.
A normal, average, mundane Audi Q7 comes with a 2.0-L turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine that puts down 252 hp and 272 lb-ft of torque. For a mid-sized crossover slash SUV, that’s fine, but nothing to write home about. Audi’s standard AWD is helpful, but not extraordinary.
But this isn’t the standard Q7. This is the Audi SQ7 TDI. Instead of a measly 2-liter engine, this bad boy comes with a 4.0-L turbodiesel engine that puts down 435 hp and 663 lb-ft of torque. From a complete standstill, it can go from zero to sixty-two miles per hour in just 4.8 seconds. Zero to 124 mph takes less than 20 seconds. Top speed is a limited 155 mph.
The SQ7 can accomplish these incredible numbers thanks to some incredible engineering. Launch control comes standard, which revs the engine and releases the brakes at the precise moment for maximum traction from all four wheels. Power is distributed 40% to the front and 60% to the back to ensure that every horse is applied to the pavement.
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An aluminum multi-link front and rear suspension combine with anti-roll bars and electronic stability control to ensure the SQ7 remains planted at all times. Adaptive air-struts read the ground and velocity of the car to ensure that the ride remains smooth and comfortable despite the intense acceleration.
The SQ7 also promises to be economical. On top of the gas savings from simply using diesel fuel, the SQ7’s engine will deactivate cylinders when full power is not needed, and will even cut the entire engine when at a standstill. The engine turns back on only when you press on the accelerator. And at high speeds the transmission will actually disengage and let the car coast, further lightening the load.
We can see in the above video that the SQ7 performs a smooth and unexciting launch until you realize just how fast the crossover is going in such a short period of time.