Audi RS Q8 performance priced for Aus

NO NEED to look at the options box for the new Audi RS Q8 performance SUV as it arrives fully equipped with all the fruit in Audi’s basket.

Here “soon”, the intimidating new model lists at $255,800 plus on-road costs, placing it up against the likes of BMW’s X5 and X6 M Competition models at similar money and the more expensive Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 also in wagon and coupe variants; with Porsche’s Cayenne GTS 4.0 S Coupe possibly in the mix.

It’s Audi’s most powerful series production combustion engine model ever which “sets a new benchmark for large, luxury, performance SUVs”.

Attendees of the recent Australian Formula 1 GP may have caught a preview glimpse of the 2350kg, high powered AWD sledgehammer occupying pride of place at an Audi display.

Power comes from a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine producing a formidable 471kW – an increase of 30kW from the base model – and a robust 850Nm of torque, figures securing the RS Q8 performance top spot in the range and standing the model as Audi’s most powerful internal combustion engine vehicle ever created.

Despite the vehicle’s weight and “stature” it enables a 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds, an improvement over the outgoing RS Q8 of 0.2 seconds.

In concert with the potent powertrain, the new RS Q8 has the dynamics to facilitate a record setting 7:36.69 lap of the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit, quicker than the first Audi R8 V10 supercar.

Enhancing aural drama is strategically reduced sound-damping materials to heighten the vehicle’s evocative acoustics and deliver what Audi calls “a visceral driving experience that underlines the sporty character of this vehicle”.

It works in conjunction with a newly developed, lighter exhaust system that also increases the output of the RS Q8 performance.

Standard kit includes advanced infotainment systems, driver-focused technology, and premium interior elements.

Externally the new model features a new front apron with revised air intakes with a distinctive honeycomb structure and a blade in high gloss to make the model “pop” from the front when compared with its predecessor.

The large Singleframe grille features a reinterpreted three-dimensional honeycomb structure while the rear design is centred on two gloss black oval tailpipes – a distinguishing feature of an RS model.

The colour palette includes a range of new paint colours for the exterior including Sakhir Gold, Ascari Blue, and Chilli Red.

It rolls on 23-inch alloy wheels in a five Y-Spoke, gloss turned design paired with 440mm ceramic front brakes with red brake callipers – which Audi claims are some of the largest brakes ever fitted to a production SUV.

Further defining the RS Q8’s appearance are HD Matrix LED headlights with OLED lights framing the rear.

Owners can select between custom light signatures via the MMI, one of which is a chequered flag design exclusively available to the RS Q8.

For the first time, the RS Q8 performance also uses largely digitalised OLED rear lights featuring five digital light signatures.

They work in concert with the assistance systems and have a proximity indication feature for improved road safety, alerting the surrounding environment with different light indicators.

Complementing its race-car power, Audi says the RS Q8 offers “outstanding driving dynamics with equally impressive suitability for everyday use”.

Dynamics are aided by all-wheel steering and permanent quattro all-wheel drive through an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission calibrated with faster shifting times as standard.

There is a mechanical self-locking centre differential to distribute engine power to the front and rear axle at a ratio of 40:60 for “precise” cornering, less understeer, and more exact turn-in.

Further, the model rides on adaptive air suspension with controlled damping tuned specifically for the RS for a variable ride height of up to 90mm with additional benefits from electromechanical active roll stabilisation.

Driver assist features include 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.

Comfort and convenience features include sport front seats with heating and ventilation systems Nappa leather upholstery with honeycomb stitching and brushed aluminium inlays throughout the cabin.

There’s also four-zone climate control with an air quality package ioniser, a 17-speaker Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system, a panoramic sunroof, four USB ports between the front and rear seats, power-assisted door closure, and an electric tailgate as standard.

“The arrival of the Audi RS Q8 performance highlights Audi Sport’s unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of high-performance motoring,” said Audi Australia director Jeff Mannering.

“This vehicle combines exceptional performance and unrivalled craftsmanship to deliver an extraordinary driving experience that perfectly embodies our commitment to Vorsprung durch Technik.”

2025 Audi Q8 pricing*:

*Pricing excludes on-road costs.