Audi SQ8 India Launch Confirmed For March 17
By Arjun Nair
Updated February 18, 2026
Audi India will launch the SQ8 on March 17, as per multiple media reports.
This new performance variant of the flagship Q8 SUV will sit between the standard Q8 and the top-end RS Q8 in the brand’s lineup.
The SQ8 gets several sporty design elements to set it apart from the standard model. It features a single-frame grille with a silver surround, a bolder front bumper with silver inserts, and silver-finished mirrors.
Connected LED taillights, four exhaust tips, and 22-inch alloy wheels complete the aggressive look.
Power comes from the RS Q8’s 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine, but it has been detuned to make 507 hp and 770 Nm of torque.
It is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system. The SUV can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds.
Also Read - BMW Leads Luxury Car Segment In January 2026
For comparison, the regular Q8 uses a 3.0-litre turbo V6 that makes 340 hp and 500 Nm, while the RS Q8 pushes the same V8 family to 640 hp and 850 Nm.
| Model | Engine | Power | Torque | 0-100 km/h | Approx. Price (ex-showroom) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Q8 | 3.0-litre V6 turbo | 340 hp | 500 Nm | 5.6 s | ₹1.13 crore |
| SQ8 | 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo | 507 hp | 770 Nm | 4.1 s | ₹1.90 crore (expected) |
| RS Q8 | 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo | 640 hp | 850 Nm | 3.6 s | ₹2.34 crore |
The SQ8’s cabin is premium and driver-focused, featuring an all-black theme with leather seats and special S badges.
Drivers get a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, while the dashboard holds two touchscreens - one for infotainment and another for climate control and other settings.
Additional tech includes a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system.
The Audi SQ8 is expected to be priced at around ₹1.90 crore (ex-showroom). This would position it between the standard Q8, which starts near ₹1.10 crore, and the RS Q8 Performance, which exceeds ₹2.30 crore.
Also See - Upcoming Cars in India
The SQ8 will appeal to customers who want some serious performance and presence but don’t want to go all the way up to the RS Q8.
It will compete with rivals such as the Porsche Cayenne Coupe.
Image Source: Audi USA
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