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Audi's new SQ7 TDI promises to kill off turbo lag (pictures)

Featuring a first-of-its-kind electric compressor, the new SQ7 relies on new tech to solve the age-old problem that comes with nearly every turbocharger.

Andrew Krok
Cars are Andrew's jam, as is strawberry. After spending years as a regular ol' car fanatic, he started working his way through the echelons of the automotive industry, starting out as social-media director of a small European-focused garage outside of Chicago. From there, he moved to the editorial side, penning several written features in Total 911 Magazine before becoming a full-time auto writer, first for a local Chicago outlet and then for CNET Cars.
Andrew Krok
2017 Audi SQ7 TDI
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Want a three-row crossover with more than 600 pound-feet of torque that can achieve 31.8 mpg on the Euro cycle? The SQ7 is the car for you.

2017 Audi SQ7 TDI
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Its 4.0-liter, eight-cylinder diesel engine puts out 435 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque.

2017 Audi SQ7 TDI
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The car is also packing a trick electric compressor that relies on battery power to compress intake air before the turbochargers have a chance to spool up.

2017 Audi SQ7 TDI
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The result is immediate power delivery as soon as the accelerator is pressed.

2017 Audi SQ7 TDI
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The engine comes mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and permanent all-wheel drive.

2017 Audi SQ7 TDI
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The V-8's turbochargers work in tandem, with one delivering boost at lower engine loads and the other stepping in when the motor's revs start to rise.

2017 Audi SQ7 TDI
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The whole point of this science experiment is to deliver both power and efficiency without sacrifice.

2017 Audi SQ7 TDI
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Also coming along for the ride is four-wheel steering, optional carbon-ceramic brakes, a sport differential, electronically controlled sway bars and electric power steering.

2017 Audi SQ7 TDI
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In terms of its styling, it's very close to the standard Q7, albeit with a more muscular appearance.

2017 Audi SQ7 TDI
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Its headlights feature 30 individual LEDs that can "turn on the brights" only on certain parts of the road, enhancing vision without blinding oncoming drivers. (This tech isn't legal in the US, sadly.)

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And what is a performance-oriented Audi without a honkin' set of tailpipes?

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Inside, traditional S trimmings abound, from the sport seats to the LED-lit doorsills.

2017 Audi SQ7 TDI
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Audi's Virtual Cockpit tech returns, as well, replacing the traditional gauge face with a 12.3-inch, high-definition screen.

2017 Audi SQ7 TDI
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You can also outfit your SQ7 with a massive amount of active and passive safety systems, including full-speed adaptive cruise control.

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The SQ7 will go on sale in Europe this spring, at a starting price of €89,900 (directly converted, about $98,965).

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