- The Audi RS Q8 Performance will be available at dealerships shortly, with prices starting from AUD$255,800 plus on-road costs.
- Recently previewed at the 2025 Australian Grand Prix F1 event
- The twin-turbo V8 receives an increase in power output to 631 horsepower and torque of 850 Newton-meters.
The RS Q8 is not your typical everyday vehicle. Audi as not only is it their most powerful car ever, but it is also a record holder for SUVs lap times at the Nürburgring Nordschleife With a striking lap time of 7:36.698 minutes, for a manufacturer that previously featured a V10 supercar in their lineup, having a large SUV as their most potent vehicle demonstrates how the realm of high-performance cars has expanded across various chassis types.
Inspired by the standard RSQ8, thePerformance version adds an additional 40 horsepower To achieve a massive total horsepower of 631 hp, the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine is combined with a 48V mild-hybrid system. Even the The torque value has increased to 850 Nm. , which means it will accelerate to 100 km/h in merely 3.6 seconds Of course, the Quattro system ensures control over all this power, with an 8-speed automatic transmission being standard equipment. Additionally, the RS Q8 Performance features include all-wheel steering, a mechanical self-locking center differential to reduce understeering, along with adaptive air suspension sports and active roll stabilization.
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In terms of design, the RS Q8 Performance exudes a determined presence thanks to numerous performance-oriented features such as a set of 23-inch alloy wheels featuring a distinctive 5-Y-spoke pattern with a high-gloss finish. These are complemented by massive 440mm carbon-ceramic front brakes equipped with bright red calipers and an upgraded lightweight exhaust setup. Additionally, there’s now reduced sound insulation so you can relish the symphony of the V8 engine through the twin matte-black oval exhaust outlets even better.
In other areas, the grille has undergone modifications alongside HD Matrix headlamps and OLED taillights featuring customizable lighting patterns.
Take a look inside, where you'll find RS sport seats equipped with heating and ventilation features. The interior boasts Nappa leather upholstery throughout, adorned with honeycomb stitch detailing, complemented by brushed aluminum inlays. As expected, the vehicle comes well-equipped with a comprehensive range of amenities. 17-speAKER bANG & oLUFSEN 3d AUDIO SETUP , featuring a panoramic sunroof, four USB ports shared between the front and rear seats, soft-close doors, a four-zone climate control system, and an electric tailgate as standard equipment. Nonetheless, fundamentally, it still stands as a spacious SUV offering generous space towards the rear along with a capacious storage area.
Starting at AUD$255,800 before on-road fees, the RS Q8 Performance comes with an additional price tag of approximately AUD$30,000 compared to the standard RS Q8. However, we feel this premium is justified solely due to its enhanced performance and the prestige associated with owning 'the most potent gasoline-powered Audi' currently available.
