Audi unveils new super SUV.

SQ8 comes with 429bhp 4.0 litre diesel V8.

Audi has revealed its flagship SUV, the SQ8. The range-topping, performance version of the Q8 abandons the petrol engine traditionally favoured by fast Audis.

Instead, power comes by way of a 4.0 litre, twin-turbo V8 diesel engine with mild hybrid technology. It generates 429bhp and a massive 900NM of torque.

That translates into a 0-62mph time of 4.8 seconds and a top speed electronically limited to 155mph. Power is sent to all four wheels via an eightspeed automatic gearbox.

The two turbochargers serve different purposes, with a small turbo active at lower speeds to give a faster response and a bigger one kicking in above 2,200rpm to deliver the more blistering aspect of the Audi’s performance.

The 48V mild hybrid system can generate up to 11bhp under braking, and allows the SQ8 to coast without the engine active for up to 40 seconds at speeds between 34 and 100mph – helping save fuel.

As standard, the SQ8 comes with adaptive air suspension, which can adjust the ride height by up to 90mm. There’s also something called electromechanical active roll stabilisation, which uses an electric motor to reduce body movement.

As is the case with German car makers, there’s no end of extra money you can spend on options and extras.

Buyers can specify all-wheel steering, 22in wheels (it comes with 21in as standard) and an advanced suspension package that can vary the power between the wheels during cornering.

Inside, there are twin touchscreens and Audi’s Virtual Cockpit system, which replaces traditional dials with a screen behind the steering wheel. Seats are upholstered in leather and alcantara.

The SQ8 will go on sale in the UK in a few months’ time. Audi hasn’t released prices for the new model yet but expect a hefty increase over the current top of the range Q8, which already costs more than £80,000.

With a 4.0 litre, twinturbo V8 diesel engine, the Audi SQ8 will be no slouch.