Performance Oriented Audi SQ8 e-tron and SQ8 Sportback e-tron join fully electric Audi e-tron range for the Malaysian market - Prices start at RM519K onwards

 

PHS Automotive Malaysia (PHSAM), the authorised distributors of Audi for Malaysia have announced the addition of two new models to its fully electric Audi e-tron range. These are the 2024 SQ8 e-tron and SQ8 Sportback e-tron, the Sportback being the fastback, or "coupe" variant of Audi's luxury full sized crossover/SUV range . The two new high-performance variants in the Q8 e-tron range are priced from RM519,990.00 for the SQ8 e-tron, and from RM529,990.00 for the SQ8 Sportback e-tron.

Denyu Bostandzhiev, Managing Director of PHSAM said, “The e-tron is Audi’s first fully electric vehicle (EV) model, with the Q8 e-tron as the flagship, With the new SQ8 e-tron in both the classic SUV and sharper Sportback designs, we now offer high-performance variants of the Q8 e-tron for those who want an even more exhilarating drive with dynamic and efficient Audi technology.”

The Q8 e-tron and e-tron GT family was launched in Malaysia last year in June, to positive response. It does seem that PHSAM's move to focus on bringing in the higher specified models into Malaysia is a good move. This was confirmed by Mr Bostandzhiev at the launch event (small talk during lunch after the unveiling) and this should go on prior to the introduction of Audi's locally assembled programme which is in the pipeline for the near future where will will see cars (both EV and fossil fuel variants) in the competitive entry level premium segment at around RM250,000- 300,000.

Note the differences between the Sporthack below and the 'normal' SQ8 above....if a S model can be normal, that is.

“In addition to Audi’s signature electric quattro all-wheel drive system, these two new models are fitted with three motors - the first EV model in Malaysia to have a 3-motor drivetrain, signalling Audi’s advancement in automotive technology,” added Mr. Bostandzhiev.

The overall design of the SQ8 in SUV and Sportback emphasises the higher performance of an Audi “S” model. The bumpers are more aggressively styled while widened, the aero-optimised wheel arch panels give these variants a sportier and more aggressive style overall. The rear features  an aerodynamic diffuser, has LED lamps which provide a distinct visual signature at night. But all the more sportier syling still allows rhe SQ8 e-tron optimised aerodynamics to push the drag coefficient (Cd) down to between 0.24 and 0.27 (depending on bodystyle).

The signature styling cue in all new Audi, the Singleframe grille (with projector lighting) sits between Digital Matrix LED headlamps. These advanced lighting units have around 1.3 million micromirrors that can be individually angled up to 5,000 times a second. Depending on the setting, the LED light and its coverage can be constantly varied for optimised illumination while taking into consideration other road-users, i.e less glare for the incoming vehicles.

While the proportions of the SQ8 e-tron models are similar to those of the regular Q8 e-tron,  the more sports-oriented bodywork and aesthetics make it look slightly different. The SQ8 e-tron models are 2 mm lower and 40 mm wider. The 2928 mm wheelbase is similar, so interior comfort,  especially the rear legroom and boot volume is generous. Although, note the Sportback has a sloping rear hatch area versus the regular hatchback of the non-Sportback e-tron.

The SQ8 e-tron offers up to 569 litres of storage space while the Sportback unravels 528 litres in the boot. Other notable features on the exterior are red-painted brake calipers, exterior mirror housings in carbonfibre, black roof rails and a black appearance plus package. Fitted as standard are Audi Sport 22-inch alloy wheels in the 5-arm ‘Interferenz’ style, finished in Titanium Gray and diamond-turned.

Three electric motors for excellent performance figures

This is the first mass-produced Audi model with three motors. The SQ8 e-tron has three asynchronous motors, two of which are on the rear axle and powering each wheel separately while the front axle is driven by an electric motor with a peak output of 124 kW (1 kW = 1.36 PS). On the rear axle, the two electric motors both with 98 kW of peak output that separately power a rear wheel. In boost mode, the front motor produces up to 157 kW, and the two rear motors up to 138 kW each. This would add up to 433 kW but the total system output is limited to 370 kW by the 114 kWh battery pack. In simpler terms, these motors make the SQ8 e-tron fast.

Besides sportscar acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h, the 3-motor setup allows for better handling on winding roads. This is because the two rear motors are not connected and power each wheel independently, computed precise and varied torque levels can be sent to each wheel.

When not required for hard driving, only a fraction of the available output is used. The electric motors at the rear are used more to drive the vehicle in normal daily conditions. When more output is used, the torque shifts to both axles so the SQ8 e-tron can offer the legendary quattro characteristics, enhanced by electric torque vectoring.

Quick and efficient charging - Something extremely important in our opinion as we'd like to spend less time plugging in and more fun driving.

The electrical system in the SQ8 e-tron can handle charging supplies of up to 170 kW at DC charging points (where available) for shorter charging period. Charging duration with a DC high-speed charging point can be as short as 31 minutes from 10% to 80% (SoC). WLTP range is up to 471 kms for the SQ8 e-tron Sportback and 458 kms for the SQ8 e-tron.

The charging socket can also accept a standard mode 3 charging cable for AC charging with a Wallbox at home or a public charging station. With AC charging, the time will be between 9.15 hours to around 11.30 hours, depending on the power supply. There is also an on-board charger that allows for charging at up to 22 kW from an AC outlet (where available).

For convenience, the SQ8 e-tron has an additional charging socket on the other side of the vehicle. This will make it easier to connect in certain locations where the charging station may be situated by the roadside. The driver can control the charging schedule from within the vehicle via the Audi Multi Media Interface (Audi MMI).

In 90% of all braking situations, the SQ8 e-tron will not use its disc brakes. With an intelligent regeneration concept, the SQ8 e-tron system recuperates via the electric motors alone, without needing the conventional brakes which then work as generators, converting kinetic energy into electrical energy that is stored in the battery.

One important factor to note is that it was also mentioned during lunch was that authorised Audi sold under PHSAM come under a more tropicalised or wet weather climate specification. This means that these SQ8 models have more weatherproofing in terms of their battery and drivetrain to withstand the elements (think better protection to flash floods etc). Quite a small feature but one that should make these officially sold Audi better to use in our hot, wet, humid climate.

MEB Evo platform

The MEB Evo electronic chassis platform of the SQ8 e-tron has adaptive sport air suspension with controlled damping for both the front and rear wheels. With precise and constant adaptation to varying road conditions, comfort and stability are maintained at their best at all times.

The ride height also adjusts automatically over a wide range of 76 mm. On the highway, the body can be lowered by 26 mm for enhanced stability and aerodynamic efficiency. When driving on rougher terrain (with Offroad mode selected), the ground clearance can be increased by 35 mm to 50 mm.

Despite being an SUV, the SQ8 e-tron has a low centre of gravity comparable even to a sedan. This is helped by the placement of the battery system in the floor between the axles, which also creates an axle load distribution that is almost the optimal 50:50.

Sporty, luxury-class interior space

The SQ8 e-tron has a cabin which is like that of the brand’s luxury-class models. In keeping with the sportier image of the model, front sports seats are Valcona leather with the “S” badge embossed.

Combination of leather in areas such as the upper part of dashboard and lower interior elements with decorative inserts in carbon and aluminium look present the image of luxury as well as high tech. This is further enhanced by the Ambient Lighting Package plus and LED entrance lights at the front and rear doors. Materials inside feel premium and nice to the touch with switchgear also nice to feel and use.

The 4-zone climate control system ensures distribution of cool and refreshing air to all corners of the cabin. Also included in the system is an air ionizer with aromatization which the occupants can adjust in several stages for the best air quality.

The Audi Virtual Cockpit has a strong driver bias, with the instrument panel integrated into the wraparound dashboard and a sleek display standing visually free in space. A Head-Up Display is standard for enhanced driving safety. Besides the two MMI touch response displays angled in the driver’s direction, there are also Glossy Black operating buttons with haptic feedback.

A smartphone interface allows integration of most iOS and Android smartphones with the Audi MMI to control features such as navigation, music and selected apps. It is complete, although a larger center screen on the dashboard than what you see could be something that is desired.

The Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System with 3D allows music to be experienced exactly as recorded, with a spatial dimension of height as well. The system has a highly efficient amplifier driving 16 loudspeakers with 705 watts.

The Interior of the SQ8 e-tron also demonstrates Audi’s commitment to sustainability with the use of many eco-friendly materials. Many of the safety-relevant components used – for example, the plastic covers of seat belt buckles - have been produced in part from mixed automotive plastic waste.

Top-notch safety features

In line with the brand philosophy, the body of the SQ8 e-tron has a mixed steel/aluminium hybrid construction which moderates the weight of the electric vehicle of this size with a powerful battery pack. In fact, the battery pack and body form a strong hybrid structure with 45% greater torsional stiffness than a conventional combustion SUV. This construction pays off in better handling as well as reduced noise levels.

The SQ8 e-tron has a range of advanced passive and active safety systems which include adaptive cruise control,lane departure warning, swerve assist and turn assist, and front and rear cross traffic assist. Take note of the camera based side mirrors on the sides of the car, which add a touch of high technology to rear view mirrors.

Other standard safety features include front side and rear SRS airbag systems, child safety package with ISOFIX child seat anchors and top tether, and a direct tyre pressure monitoring system. For ease of parking, the SQ8 e-tron has a Park Assist package with park assist plus helps locate an available bay and then manoeuvres the vehicle in without any steering input by the driver.

Colour choices and warranty

The SQ8 e-tron is available with a wide range of exterior colour choices such as Magnet Gray, Ultra Blue, Chronos Gray, Mythos Black, Plasma Blue, Daytona Gray and Glacier White.

Both SQ8 e-tron variants can be purchased with the optional Audi Assurance Package (AAP) which extends the vehicle warranty period to 5 years, with free scheduled maintenance for the first 3 years and complimentary roadside assistance for the first 5 years. The battery system is covered by a separate warranty of 8 years or 160,000 km. As with all warranties, terms and conditions apply.

For more information on the SQ8 e-tron and other models in the e-tron range, visit the nearest Audi showroom or www.audi.com.my.