PHS Automotive Malaysia (PHSAM) the official distributor of Audi vehicles today launched two new models, adding to its fully electric (BEV) e-tron range – the Audi SQ8 e-tron and SQ8 Sportback e-tron.

The two new high-performance models are the first to feature a 3-motor EV drivetrain in Malaysia, and is priced at RM520,790 (OTR excluding AAP) for the SQ8 e-tron, and RM530,790 (OTR excluding AAP) for the SQ8 Sportback e-tron, inclusive of current Government import and excise tax exemptions, valid until 2025.

Also read: Audi e-tron Malaysian range driven - Could EVs have genuine soul engineered in them? Maybe

Denyu Bostandzhiev, Managing Director of PHSAM added “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.”

Based on the MEB Evo EV platform, the SQ8 e-tron models features three asynchronous motors, two of which are on the rear axle and powering each wheel independently. The front motor delivers 168 PS whilst each rear motor delivers 133 PS, which rises to 213 PS and 187 PS (each) respectively in Boost mode. Total system output is rated at 503 PS with a whopping 973 Nm of torque.

Also read: Audi Malaysia's e-tron range launched; e-tron GT from RM 601k, Q8 e-tron from RM 398k, Sportback from RM 404k

Equipped with torque vectoring, both rear motors can apply different torque levels to each wheel for greater stability on winding roads or offer legendary quattro AWD traction in unison with the front axle motor. 

In terms of performance, the SQ8 e-tron models complete the 0 to 100 km/h sprint in 4.5 seconds and have a top speed of 210 km/h.

The SQ8 e-tron models are powered by a 114 kWh battery which offers a maximum DC charging rate of 170 kW or up to 22 kW AC. WLTP range is up to 471 km for the SQ8 e-tron Sportback and 458 km for the SQ8 e-tron.

Audi also claim that the SQ8 e-tron will not use its disc brakes in 90 percent of driving situations courtesy of its intelligent regeneration concept.

The SQ8 e-tron models feature Audi’s adaptive sport air suspension with controlled damping for both the front and rear wheels. 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 or raised up by 50 mm from its default position for offroad driving.

Other notable features include the Digital Matrix LED headlamps, Audi Ambient Lighting Package, 4-zone climate control system, 16-speaker (705 W) Bang & Olufsen premium sound system and Audi Virtual Cockpit with two MMI touch response displays with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity.

In terms of safety, the SQ8 features 8-airbags a suite of ADAS features which include adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, swerve assist and turn assist, and front and rear cross traffic assist.

The SQ8 e-tron is available in 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 come with a standard 2-year/unlimited mileage warranty and 5-year roadside assistance which can be upgraded with the Audi Assurance Package (AAP) for an RM 13k premium. The AAP offers a 5-year/unlimited mileage warranty and 3-year/45,000 km free maintenance package.

The battery system is covered by a separate warranty of 8 years or 160,000 km.