Audi India Opens Bookings for SQ8 SUV Ahead of March 17 Launch

Audi India has opened bookings for the SQ8, a performance variant of its Q8 SUV, with an official launch scheduled for March 17, 2026. The announcement positions the SQ8 as one of the higher-specification vehicles in Audi's current India lineup.

The SQ8 is powered by a 4.0-litre V8 TFSI petrol engine producing 373 kW and 770 Nm of torque. The company states the vehicle accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds, with a top speed of 250 km/h. Turbocharged V8 engines remain relatively uncommon among vehicles offered in India's luxury SUV segment, where most competitors rely on six-cylinder units.

On the mechanical side, the SUV comes with Audi's quattro permanent all-wheel drive system, featuring a self-locking centre differential, adaptive air suspension, and all-wheel steering. The all-wheel steering system, which adjusts the rear wheel angle at varying speeds, is typically associated with improved maneuverability at lower speeds and stability at higher speeds.

The SQ8 sits within Audi's Q range as a higher-performance version of the standard Q8. Across Audi's lineup, the "S" designation is applied to models tuned for higher performance relative to their base versions, typically with more powerful engines, revised suspension, and exterior differentiation. The Q8 competes in a segment that includes equivalent models from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche, all of which offer performance sub-variants in international markets.

India's luxury car market has recorded growing demand for performance-oriented SUVs in recent years, with buyers showing willingness to pay a premium for higher-specification variants. Audi's decision to limit availability indicates the company intends to position the SQ8 as a low-volume product rather than a mainstream offering within its India portfolio.

Balbir Singh Dhillon, Brand Director at Audi India, said the company expected the SQ8 to appeal to buyers seeking more than a standard luxury SUV. He cited the response to the existing Q8 range in India as a factor in the decision to bring the SQ8 to the market, and noted that availability would be limited.

Audi India is part of the Audi Group, which also owns Bentley, Lamborghini, and Ducati. The group operates 21 production locations across 12 countries and is present in more than 100 markets. In 2024, it delivered 1.7 million Audi vehicles globally, alongside over 10,000 Bentley and Lamborghini units each. The group reported revenue of €69.9 billion and an operating profit of €6.3 billion in its 2023 fiscal year, with a workforce of more than 87,000 people.

Bookings are open with an initial payment of ₹5,00,000, through the company's website and mobile application.