The Audi SQ8 is equipped with a 4.0-litre V8-cylinder TFSI petrol engine featuring twin-turbocharging and fully electronic management. It produces a maximum power output of 507 hp at 5500 rpm and peak torque of 770 Nm available between 2000 and 4000 rpm.

Power is transferred through a hydraulic torque converter with lock-up clutch to an 8-speed tiptronic automatic transmission.

Further enhancing traction, the permanent quattro (meaning power sent to all four wheels continuously) all-wheel-drive system includes a self-locking centre differential, enabling a claimed 0-100 km/h time of 4.1 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.

Official ARAI mileage figures have not been published yet (as the car has just launched).

Based on the engine specifications, the high-output 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine requires premium unleaded fuel, and efficiency will depend on driving conditions, load, and style.

The SQ8 cabin prioritizes luxury and functionality with high-quality materials including Valcona leather with S embossing (available in Arras red, Rotor gray, black, or black/red) and leather combinations in black with gray or red contrasting stitching.

Across the dashboard, the layout includes dual touch displays for the MMI system, a 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit plus, and an additional climate control screen. Connectivity covers wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and smartphone interface.

Comfort includes front seats that provide heating, ventilation, massage, electric adjustment, and memory settings. A panoramic glass sunroof, ambient lighting, multi-zone climate control, and Bang & Olufsen 3D premium audio system enhance the experience. Further back, rear seating offers good space for adults, with a sliding three-part bench and fold-down capability for flexible load space up to 1751 litres.

The SQ8 adopts a coupe-SUV silhouette with a sloping roofline, bold octagonal Singleframe grille featuring vertical inlays, and aggressive front bumper with large air intakes. Alongside the grille, HD Matrix LED headlights provide precise illumination, while digital OLED rear lights deliver dynamic light sequencing and a connected light bar.

Moving past the front, side profiles include S badging, chrome window trim, and wheel options from 21-inch to 23-inch Audi Sport designs. Further back, functional elements comprise a glass panoramic sunroof, roof spoiler, quad exhaust outlets, sport diffuser, and aerodynamic shaping for optimised performance.

To complete the exterior, ground clearance suits varied Indian road conditions, with available Audi exclusive custom paint finishes for personalisation.

The Audi SQ8 comes equipped with eight airbags as standard, along with essential basics like ABS with electronic brake-force distribution, electronic stability control, traction control, and a tyre pressure monitoring system. For easier parking and manoeuvring, it includes front and rear parking sensors, plus a full 360-degree camera view. Child safety gets attention through ISOFIX mounts for compatible seats.

On the active side, it offers Level 2 ADAS features, which includes adaptive cruise control to maintain safe distance and speed on highways, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic, and automatic emergency. HD Matrix LED headlights and digital OLED rear lights contribute to visibility.

No Bharat NCAP or Global NCAP crash test rating is available for this model as of launch.

The SQ8's closest direct competitors are the Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE 53, and Porsche Cayenne GTS.

Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 offers a smoother inline-6 mild-hybrid powertrain with potentially better refinement and a more upright body for extra rear headroom/boot space. The SQ8 leads with its V8 character and quattro system's grip in varied conditions.

Porsche Cayenne GTS provides sharper handling dynamics and optional air suspension tuning for track-like agility. The SQ8 holds its own with stronger low-end torque (770 Nm vs lower in some configs) and advanced OLED lighting or ADAS suite.