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The AudiAdvantage

Reviewers refer to it as the “new benchmark in the luxury SUV segment ” while others have labelled it “close to the per fect car ” but what is it

about the Audi SQ7 that has Australian car enthusiasts so enamoured?

34 www.un iquees tates.com.au Un ique Luxu r y 35

When it comes to technical precision and dynamic innovation, luxury vehicle maker Audi AG has always been in a league of its own.

The team behind the quattro, the first German large-scale production vehicle to feature permanent all-wheel drive through a centre differential, and the first car manufacturer to introduce aluminum space frames into car design, Audi has always led from the front.

And it appears the latest model to roll off its production line, the SQ7 TDI, is no exception.

It could be its power A high performance diesel SUV, the model ticks all the boxes when it comes to a single vehicle capable of being used for a multitude of purposes.

It blends proven technology with a unique state-of-the-art forced-induction system, affording it unparalleled off-the-line acceleration.

Boasting a 4.0-litre twin–turbo V8 diesel engine, the core of the SQ7 design lies with the introduction of a clever world-first electric compressor that all but eliminates turbo lag.

Where a regular turbocharger relies on exhaust pressure to make it work –using energy normally lost in the exhaust system to provide more power – the electric compressor simply requires electricity.

Once the driver accelerates an electronic signal is sent to the compressor that, capable of spinning up to 70,000 revolutions per minute begins pumping air into the traditional turbos.

This in turn feeds the air into the engine to get things moving before the regular turbos – now flush with exhaust pressure – take over.

In short this added functionality means the SQ7 engine is capable of 435 hp and nearly 700 lb-ft of torque, helping it to reach speeds of up to 100 km/h in an impressive 4.8 seconds and continue up to 250 km/h.

It may be its green credentialsBut it’s not just in acceleration where the SQ7 has proven best in class, it is also in efficiency with the vehicle consuming an average of just 7.2 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres.

It’s quiet too. The SQ7 also boasts innovative thermal management and sophisticated measures in its crankshaft and camshaft drive that help reduce friction.

Audi AG Technical Development Board of Management member Dr Stefan Knirsch says the combination of a NOx oxidating catalutic converter and a downstream SCR catalutic converter means it has a particularly efficient emissions control system.

“A sound actuator in the exhaust system amplifies the sonorous eight-cylinder sound. Drivers can choose how much attention they want to draw to themselves by using the Audi drive select system to vary the amount of sound.”

It could be its superb handling capabilitiesDr Knirsch says the front and rear stabiliser can be adjusted independently of each other giving drivers more control of the vehicle’s on road behaviour.

Compared with conventional hydraulically switched stabilisers, the 48-volt-based system offers major advantages over its competitors.

A compact electric motor with a three-stage planetary gearbox separates the two half of the stabiliser. On an uneven road surface, they are actively separated resulting in improved ride comfort. During sporty driving the tubes are interconnected and twisted against each other, significantly reducing the lead on the car, he says.

“It can develop more power, it works faster and it is activated even at low speeds. Because it requires no oil, the electromechnical active roll stabilisation is also maintenance-free and environmentally friendly.”

Boasting all-wheel steering, the SQ7’s rear wheels are capable of turning in by as much as five degrees, improving dynamics and stability and making parking a breeze.

Or its design-led exterior styling

Available in 12 different colours and measuring 5.07 metres from top to tail, it is hard to describe the SQ7 TDI as anything other than a beautiful beast. Boasting all the hallmarks of the Audi DNA – including a sculpted single frame radiator grille, distinctively highlighted wheels and flared quattro-style blisters - all lines on the car accentuate its width and the robustness of its offering.

Other distinguishing features unique to this model include its side air inlets, mirror housings, aluminum door inlays and its aesthetically pleasing exhaust system that diverges into in four rectangular tailpipes.

Its headlights have a pronounced three-dimensional appearance with a double-arrow signature. Each Matrix LED headlight divides its high beam into 30 individual light-emitting diodes paired with three reflectors. This means the control unit is capable of individually turning the diodes on or off and can dim them in 64 stages each depending on the situation.

“With the millions of different resultant beam patters, the high-end headlights superbly light up the road, without blinding other road users,” says Dr Knirsch.

“Traffic signs are illuminated with less power so that the driver is not blinded by glare.”

Or simply because it’s the epitome of coolThe SQ7 has captured the attention of Hollywood with Captain America – the main character in the latest instalment in the Marvel film series Captain America: Civil War catching a ride in the new Audi SQ7.

“Captain America has superpowers, his trademark is the indestructible Vibranium shield. The Audi SQ7 adds a new superpower to his arsenal, making this sporty SUV the perfect fit for him,” says Anthony Russo, who directed the movie along with his brother Joe Russo.

As if being the car of choice of superheroes is not enough, the SQ7 comes complete with plenty of high-end inclusions including Audi’s benchmark 12.3-inch virtual cockpit display with customisation and intuitive operation, and a power tailgate.

Capable of being both sporty and elegant, the SQ7 is available with a full leather interior,contrasting stitching and luxury velour floor mats.

In addition it offers a wide range of 24 driver assistance systems to help drivers travel safely and comfortably. Its predictive efficiency assistant provides additional information in the instrument cluster to help drivers safe fuel while standard Audi pre sense city – an anticipatory warning and emergency breaking function for avoid accidents and protecting pedestrians - gives drivers piece of mind when behind the wheel.

There’s also a stylish Bang & Olufsen sound system featuring 23 speakers, 11 channels and a 1920-Watt amplifier that can include two Audi tablets docked into the rear of the front seats for the drivers who enjoy being wired for sound.

All of which helps to explain why the release of the Audi SQ7 is so eagerly anticipated.

For more information on the new SQ7, please contact your local Audi Dealer:Audi Five Dock: 02 8753 2888

Audi Centre Mosman: 02 9939 1500Audi Sutherland: 02 8536 2888

Audi Centre Parramatta: 02 8842 8888