AUDI is pushing the boundaries of diesel performance with a new system which turns its Q7 large SUV into a high powered monster.

By combining turbo charging with an electronic compressor the power from the V8 BiTDI engine has been increased to 435ps to make the car the most powerful diesel SUV on the market.

The model will be badged the SQ7 and with 900Nm of torque it has a 0 to 60 acceleration time of 4.8 seconds with its top speed restricted to 155mph.

Despite the sports car figures, the SQ7 has an official fuel return of 38.2mpg with emissions of 194g/km which is not far removed from the 3.0-litre diesel Q7.

Audi says that the new system eliminates turbo lag under acceleration and it is also fitting the SQ7 with a new electromechanical stability system to keep the body in check.

In Audi's performance SUV range the SQ7 follows on from the introduction of the SQ5 which uses a V6 diesel.

The new technology on the larger 4.0-litre diesel in the SQ7 enables the boost from the engine's twin turbo set up to kick-in immediately giving instant response.

"The new technology solution of the electric powered compressor in the SQ7 TDI is a world first in the competitive environment," said DrStefanKnirsch, Audi's technical development director.

The SQ7 will also be available with optional all-wheel steering and with a sports differential fitted to the quattro all-wheel-drive system.

LED headlamps are standard and the car features extra body kit including a redesigned grille and rear diffuser to denote its S performance status.

Prices and a release date for the SQ7 have still to be announced.