Audi Unleashes Two High-Performance Q8 Beasts: RS Q8 and RS Q8 performance
Audi is pushing the boundaries of the Q8 lineup with not just one, but two new top dogs: the RS Q8 and the even more powerful RS Q8 performance.
Unmatched Power:
The RS Q8 boasts a staggering 600 horsepower, while the RS Q8 performance elevates the game to a monstrous 640 horsepower, making it the most powerful gasoline-powered production car Audi Sport has ever built.
Thrilling Performance, Everyday Comfort:
Both models deliver exceptional driving dynamics thanks to an optimized center differential, ensuring a smooth and exciting ride. This impressive performance doesn’t compromise on everyday practicality – you can enjoy the thrill on the open road and navigate daily commutes with ease.
Striking Design:
The RS Q8 and RS Q8 performance take design cues from the recently updated Q8, with a hint of added aggression. New customization options allow you to personalize your high-performance SUV to match your style.
Pricing and Availability:
The all-new Audi RS Q8 and RS Q8 performance are set to launch in June 2024, with starting prices at €141,900 and €155,700 respectively.
Unmistakably Audi Sport:
The exterior design screams high performance. A new front fascia with bold air intakes and a distinctive honeycomb grille sets the stage. The RS Q8 performance stands out with a matte gray blade detail, while the standard RS Q8 features a high-gloss black finish. Both models showcase a reimagined singleframe grille with three-dimensional honeycomb elements. The rear continues the theme of dominance, with twin oval exhaust pipes flanking a split diffuser.
This revised text condenses the original information while emphasizing key points like power, performance, design, and availability. It also uses more engaging language to highlight the exciting nature of these vehicles.
Two Engine Options, Power on Demand:
The RS Q8 lineup offers two exhilarating engine choices:
- The RS Q8: This powerhouse boasts a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 churning out 600 horsepower and 800 Nm of torque. It rockets from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 3.8 seconds, with an optional top speed of 305 km/h.
- The RS Q8 performance: Take performance to the next level with a monstrous 640 horsepower and 850 Nm of torque. This engine claims the title of Audi Sport GmbH’s most powerful combustion engine ever, propelling the car from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds and offering an optional top speed of 305 km/h.
Enhanced Sound and Performance:
- The RS Q8 performance features a newly developed lightweight exhaust system that not only boosts power but also delivers a sportier, more exciting sound. An optional RS sport exhaust system further amplifies the aural experience.
Gripping Handling and Unwavering Stability:
- Both models come standard with permanent quattro all-wheel drive and a lightning-fast eight-speed Tiptronic transmission for optimal power delivery and control.
- A self-locking center differential intelligently distributes power between the front and rear axles, ensuring precise handling and confident cornering.
- Standard adaptive air suspension with controlled damping provides a perfect balance of sportiness and comfort, specifically tuned for the RS models.
Advanced Technology for Superior Performance (Optional):
- Electromechanical active roll stabilization (eAWS) minimizes body roll during cornering, enhancing agility and stability.
- The dynamic package plus unlocks even greater performance with features like eAWS, a quattro sport differential, and RS ceramic brakes (standard on the RS Q8 performance).
- All-wheel steering allows the rear wheels to adjust in response to driving conditions, further improving agility at high speeds and maneuverability at low speeds.
The RS Q8 offers extensive customization options, particularly in its exterior and interior features. For the exterior, customers can choose from a wide array of new paint finishes, including metallic options like Sakhir Gold, Ascari Blue, and Chili Red, alongside bespoke choices through Audi exclusive.
Differentiating between the RS Q8 and RS Q8 performance models are distinct exterior elements. The RS Q8 features black exterior mirrors, front spoiler elements, and trim, while the RS Q8 performance showcases matte gray mirrors and spoiler elements, complemented by high-gloss black accents. Audi Sport GmbH provides an additional package for the RS Q8 performance, offering these features in matte carbon or high-gloss black.
Enhancing its appearance further, optional 23-inch light-alloy wheels with a 6-Y spoke design and various finishes are available, providing a unique look compared to the standard 22-inch wheels. These wheels not only improve aesthetics but also contribute to better handling and responsiveness, especially when paired with high-performance Pirelli P Zero tires.
Inside, customizable RS design packages in red, gray, or exclusive blue (available only for the RS Q8 performance) offer personalized accents such as contrasting stitching on the steering wheel, seats, and interior trims. The interior is further enriched with materials like Alcantara and Dinamica microfiber, showcasing Audi’s commitment to luxury and performance.
Exclusive to the RS Q8 performance model are advanced features such as an entrance LED projecting “RS performance,” a dynamic shift light indicator in the Audi virtual cockpit, and Launch Control for optimized acceleration.
At its debut, the RS Q8 performance has claimed the coveted title of the fastest SUV to conquer the Nürburgring’s challenging Nordschleife. Behind the wheel, racing and development driver Frank Stippler blazed through the 20.832-kilometer track in the Eifel in an astonishing 7 minutes and 36.698 seconds. This achievement surpasses the previous fastest SUV by over two seconds, as well as outpaces its predecessor, the RS Q8, by nearly six seconds after receiving significant upgrades.
Enhancements include a power boost to 640 horsepower and 850 Nm of torque, complemented by top-tier chassis components such as adaptive air suspension sport with controlled damping, RS-tuned electromechanical active roll stabilization (eAWS), all-wheel steering, and the quattro sport differential. These advancements played a pivotal role in achieving the record lap time.
“The RS Q8 performance’s new Nordschleife record is a testament not only to the flawless synergy between its V8 engine and suspension systems but also to the relentless pursuit of performance excellence by the Audi Sport GmbH team. Furthermore, it remains exceptionally practical for everyday use,” remarked Rolf Michl, Managing Director of Audi Sport GmbH.
Available for order starting June 27, 2024, the RS Q8 begins at a base price of 141,900 euros, while the RS Q8 performance, Audi Sport GmbH’s ultimate SUV, starts at 155,700 euros.
