Brawny 2020 Audi SQ7 Comes Out Of Hiding As Well

Yesterday we brought you the first spy shots of the facelifted 2020 Audi Q7, which we will now follow up with a bunch of pics showing the SQ7 flagship.

The diesel-powered performance SUV is making its spy photo debut carrying predictable updates. As with the regular Q7, it sports new headlights with a different shape than before. To distinguish it from the lesser model, Audi has given the SQ7 a unique DRL signature that also integrates the dynamic turn signal function.

The SQ7 prototype also boasts a new grille and a more aggressive front bumper design featuring larger air intakes. The camouflage foil applied to the sides suggests Audi will update the side skirts and fenders as well.

At the rear, the most noticeable change is the switch from squared quad exhausts to round tailpipes. That’s in line with the look of newer S-badged models from Audi’s stable. The rear bumper also appears to go through a makeover, but the taillights are still the old ones. However, they’re likely to be replaced by updated units as testing moves on.

For now, we have no information regarding any engine tweaks. The truth is the SQ7 hardly needs them, since its 4.0-liter V8 bi-turbo diesel unit already delivers 435 PS (429 hp) and 900 Nm (664 lb-ft) of torque. Linked to an eight-speed auto and quattro AWD, the V8 propels the big SUV from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 4.8 seconds, and on to a limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

It does all that with no interruptions, thanks to a 48-volt mild hybrid system feeding an electric compressor that virtually eliminates turbo lag. To top it all off, the SQ7’s combined fuel economy is NEDC-estimated at 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 mpg US).