Audi SQ9: Can Its 591-HP Twin-Turbo V-8 Turn Luxury Into Speed?

V-8 power and handling

The SQ9 uses a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 rated at 591 horsepower. An eight-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive, an electronically controlled locking rear differential, and staggered tires are standard.

Its air-spring suspension adjusts ride height and roll stiffness, while rear-wheel steering can turn the rear wheels by up to five degrees. The driving impressions described strong thrust and an all-wheel-drive system that puts power to the ground effectively.

Performance and rivals

Estimated performance figures put the SQ9 at 3.7 seconds to 60 mph, 8.5 seconds to 100 mph, and 11.9 seconds for the quarter-mile. Estimated top speed ranges from 130 to 155 mph.

The BMW X7 M60i reached 60 mph in 3.8 seconds in testing, but the SQ9 has not yet been tested at the track. Both the SQ9 and Q9 have a 7,700-pound towing maximum, compared with 7,500 pounds for the BMW and 8,100 pounds for the Cadillac Escalade.

Cabin, screens and space

The SQ9’s cabin shares the Q9’s basic design but adds sport seats and carbon-fiber trim. Leather upholstery and five-zone automatic climate control are standard, as are two third-row seats.

Third-row legroom is limited when the second-row seats are fully back, though sliding them forward could make the rear seats more usable. The dashboard includes a 14.5-inch central touchscreen, an 11.9-inch digital gauge display, and a 12.3-inch passenger screen.

Standard connectivity includes Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Wi-Fi, and navigation. The standard Bang & Olufsen stereo has 16 speakers; an optional system has 22.

Price, fuel and safety

The SQ9 starts well above $100,000 and costs more than the V-6 Q9. Fuel-economy estimates from the EPA are not yet available; the estimate given is around 15 mpg combined.

Standard driver-assistance features include automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Trailer maneuvering assist is optional. Audi’s standard warranty includes three years of complimentary scheduled maintenance. Crash-test information is available from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.