Audi SQ8 India Launch Confirmed for March 17: Price, Specs, and V8 Performance

Audi India has officially confirmed that the high-performance Audi SQ8 is scheduled to launch on March 17, 2026. This is designed for those who find the standard Q8 a bit too modest but aren’t quite ready for the raw, track-focused aggression of the RS Q8.

As one of the most anticipated upcoming cars in India, the SQ8 bridges the gap with a V8 engine, sophisticated quattro all-wheel drive, and a level of everyday usability that makes it a perfect flagship for the modern enthusiast. This performance-oriented SUV is likely at the top of your wishlist.

Audi SQ8

Feature	Details
Vehicle Name	Audi SQ8
Expected Launch Date	March 17, 2026
Expected Price Range	₹1.85 Crore – ₹1.95 Crore (Ex-Showroom)
Engine	4.0-Litre Twin-Turbo V8 Petrol
Power / Torque	507 hp / 770 Nm
Transmission	8-Speed Tiptronic Automatic
0–100 km/h	4.1 Seconds

Engine Specifications & Performance

At the heart of the Audi SQ8 lies a mechanical masterpiece: a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine. This is the same basic block found in the monstrous RS Q8, though it has been refined to offer a more balanced driving experience for the streets.

Power Output: It churns out a massive 507 hp.
Peak Torque: A mountain-moving 770 Nm of torque is available almost instantly.
Drivetrain: Power is sent to all four wheels via Audi’s legendary quattro permanent all-wheel-drive system.
Acceleration: It lunges from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds.

Design & Exterior

While it retains the iconic “SUV-Coupe” silhouette of the Q8 family, it receives several “S-specific” touches that scream performance.

Aggressive Grille: The Octagonal Singleframe grille features a unique honeycomb insert with a bold silver surround.
Sporty Accents: Silver-finished mirror housings and aggressive front/rear bumpers set it apart from the base model.
Wheels: It is expected to ride on 22-inch alloy wheels with red brake calipers peeking through.
Lighting: HD Matrix LED headlights with customizable light signatures come standard.
Exhaust: Functional quad exhaust tips at the rear provide a deep, throaty V8 rumble.

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Interior & Technology

Inside, the latest vehicle launch from Audi feels like a cockpit from the future. The cabin is wrapped in premium Valcona leather and Alcantara, with an all-black theme highlighted by contrast stitching.

Virtual Cockpit: A 12.3-inch digital driver’s display with exclusive “S” graphics.
Dual-Screen MMI: A 10.1-inch infotainment screen sits above an 8.6-inch display for climate and convenience controls.
Audio Excellence: A 3D Bang & Olufsen sound system that turns the cabin into a concert hall.
Comfort: S-embossed sport seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions.

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Safety Features

8 Airbags as standard.
Audi Pre-Sense: Front and rear collision warning systems.
360-Degree Camera: With 3D visualization for easy parking.
Lane Change Warning and Rear Cross-Traffic Assist.
Park Assist Plus: Helping the car steer into tight spots automatically.

Performance SUV Segment

As we look at the new car launches in 2026, the SQ8 faces stiff competition from other European titans.

Model	Expected Price (Ex-Showroom)	Engine	Power	Segment
Audi SQ8	₹1.90 Crore	4.0L V8	507 hp	Performance SUV
BMW X5 M60i	₹1.65 Crore	4.4L V8	530 hp	Performance SUV
Porsche Cayenne S	₹1.85 Crore	4.0L V8	474 hp	Luxury SUV
Mercedes-AMG GLE 53	₹1.70 Crore	3.0L L6	435 hp	AMG SUV

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Which car is launching this month?

While several cars are debuting, the Audi SQ8 is the headline-grabbing luxury launch scheduled for March 17, 2026.

What is the expected price of the Audi SQ8?

The Audi SQ8 is expected to be priced around ₹1.85 Crore to ₹1.95 Crore (ex-showroom). On-road prices could exceed ₹2.2 Crore.

Which is the best upcoming SUV for performance?

If you want a mix of V8 power and daily comfort, the Audi SQ8 is currently the best upcoming option. For those wanting pure track speed, the RS Q8 remains the pinnacle.

Does the SQ8 have a petrol or diesel engine?

In India, the Audi SQ8 will be powered exclusively by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine.

How fast is the Audi SQ8?

The SQ8 has a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited) and can hit 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds.

The Audi SQ8 launch on March 17, 2026, marks a significant moment for the brand in India. It offering the prestige and power of a V8 without the extreme price tag or stiff ride of the RS models. In the current 2026 lineup, the SQ8 offers better value than its rivals if you prioritize a sophisticated interior and the “Quattro” driving dynamics.

If you are in the market for a luxury SUV and have a budget near ₹2 Crore, wait for the SQ8. Its blend of a detuned RS engine and flagship luxury features makes it a more sensible, yet thrilling, daily driver than almost anything else in its segment.