Audi SQ7 is big

CHRISTMAS HAS COME EARLY FOR OWNERS OF THE FIRST

TONY VERDON

Audi’s new SQ7 is the world’s most powerful SUV and, despite the $ 170,000- plus cost, New Zealanders have been queueing for them.

The first of 50 pre- ordered V8- powered SQ7s were being delivered to customers throughout the country this week.

With 320kW of power and a massive 900Nm of torque, the seven- seat SQ7 delivers instant sportster- like performance, with the luxury, comfort and convenience of a seven- seater SUV.

Most of the pre- ordered models were bought sight unseen, such was the pent- up demand for a luxury vehicle with exceptional power and towing capacity.

The top- of- the- range SUV delivers a smooth, comfortable ride, with handling characteristics that belie the vehicle’s size.

A test drive through secondary roads in the Waikato, over the Kaimai Ranges and back to Auckland through Waihi and the Karangahake Gorge, demonstrated the SQ7’ s agility.

A short slalom course and standing- start runs at the Meremere Drag Strip illustrated the brute force, instant acceleration and sophisticated handling characteristics.

The seven- seater is the first Audi production vehicle to offer an electric powered compressor and 48 volts electrical subsystem.

It has a 3.5 tonne towing capacity, and accelerates from 0 to 100km in just 4.9 seconds.

The SQ7 is priced from $ 175,900 plus on- road costs, and is loaded with 15 driver assistance systems and other driver aids.

“A number of our Audi customers were waiting for a V8 engine,” Audi New Zealand general manager Dean Sheed said.

“That shows the confidence in the brand, that they were prepared to commit to buying sight unseen.”

Sheed said Audi New Zealand was bullish about prospects for the SQ7, aiming to sell about 100 of the vehicles in the next 12 months.