Audi has confirmed pricing and specs for the new RS Q8 performance, the most powerful series-produced combustion engine model in the brand’s history. It arrives soon, with 471kW of power and 850Nm of torque, and a price tag of $255,800 plus on-roads.
Powered by a twin turbocharged 8-cylinder engine, it’s capable of mowing down 100km/h in 3.6 seconds – any wonder it set the SUV lap record (7:36.698 minutes) at the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit.
Complementing the enhanced performance, Audi has strategically reduced sound-damping materials, heightening the thrilling acoustics and delivering a visceral driving experience that underlines the sporty character of this vehicle.
In combination with a newly developed, lighter RS Sport exhaust system, it makes for quite a sportier, more evocative sound. Throw in the fact it will be offered in three new colours; Sakhir Gold, Ascari Blue, and Chilli Red, and there’s plenty to like about the new model.
A new front apron with striking air intakes, a distinctive honeycomb structure, and a blade in high gloss stand out on the RS Q8 performance. The rear design features two gloss black oval tailpipes.
Other exterior highlights include mammoth 23-inch alloy wheels in a 5-Y-Spoke, gloss turned design paired with 440mm ceramic front brakes with red brake calipers – some of the largest brakes ever fitted to a production SUV.
HD Matrix LED headlights grace the front face, with OLED lights framing the rear. Customers can select between custom light signatures via the infotainment screen, one of which is a checkered flag design.
In conjunction with driver assistance systems, the tail lights also have a proximity indication feature for improved road safety, alerting the surrounding environment with different light indicators.
Dynamically, the RS Q8 performance benefits from all-wheel steering, as well as permanent quattro all-wheel drive combined with an eight-speed Tiptronic transmission, mechanical self-locking centre differential, and a 40:60 front to rear power distribution.
The combination produces more precise cornering, less understeer, and more exact turn-in. Adaptive air suspension with controlled damping allows for a variable ride height up to 90mm, while electromechanical active roll stabilisation also features.
The RS Q8 performance also features adaptive cruise assist, surround view cameras with active lane assist, lane change warnings, rear cross traffic assist, hill decent control, emergency assist, and a direct tyre pressure monitoring system.
Inside, RS Sport front seats with heating and ventilation are standard, with Nappa leather upholstery featuring honeycomb stitching and brushed aluminium inlays found throughout the cabin.
Passengers can enjoy the ride with 4-zone climate control and an air quality package ioniser, a 17-speaker Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system, a panoramic sunroof, four USB ports between the front and rear, power-assisted doors and an electric tailgate.
It comes with a 5-year unlimited kilometre warranty. With its pending arrival, further details on the RS Q8 performance will be provided on the Audi Australia website soon. Alternatively, you can find out more from your local dealership.
