2020 Audi SQ7 and SQ8 SUVs pack 500hp V8s

Audi has unveiled a pair of new SUVs that will be coming to the States. The 2020 Audi SQ7 is the first performance variant of the newly updated three-row SUV to be sold in the States. The SQ8 will slot between the Audi Q8 and the RS Q8. Both the SQ7 and SQ8 SUVs share the same 4.0-liter, twin-turbo V8 engine that makes 500hp and 568 lb-ft of torque.

The power goes to all four wheels via an eight-speed Tiptronic transmission and standard Quattro all-wheel drive. Both of the S models can reach 60 mph from a standstill in 4.3 seconds and have a top speed of 155 mph. The Quattro system splits torque 40:60 front-to-rear and can send up to 80% of the power to the rear axle.

The vehicles have rear-wheel steering to help low-speed maneuverability and stability at high speeds. Both SUVs also have available electromechanical active roll stabilization that can stiffen the front and rear stabilizer bars when dynamic driving is required.

Audi fits the SQ7 and SQ8 with Alu-optic or Black-optic design elements, including air intake blades, side sill blades, standard silver mirror caps, and quad exhaust outlets. The SQ7 has an octagonal Singleframe grille and will offer 20 or 21-inch wheels. The SQ8 will have an Alu-optic grille surround and standard 21 or available 22-inch wheels.

Audi says that the SUVs will land in showrooms in late spring 2020. It will announce final pricing and packaging closer to the on-sale date of the vehicles. You can bet high-end SUVs with 500 hp will be expensive rides.