New Audi RS Q8 launched with up to 640 hp

Given the proximity of the top SUVs that share the MLB Evo platform – the Urus, the Bentayga, the Cayenne, the Q8 – it can be difficult to create some daylight between them, both on paper and in the minds of buyers . . But in the wake of the increasingly hybridized Urus and Cayenne (which now deliver as much as 800 hp), Audi has introduced the latest RS versions of its own flagship, including the new RS Q8 Performance, which earns the distinction of being ‘the most powerful’ are. series-produced combustion model in the history of Audi Sport GmbH.’

The word ‘combustion’ is clearly crucial here: unlike its siblings, the RS Q8 sticks with the twin-turbocharged V8 as its powerplant. The standard version gets the same 600 hp and 590 Nm of torque as before (which, to be fair, we found to be more than ample considering the resulting 3.8-second 0-62 mph performance), but with the Cayenne GT Turbo now moving on from its non-electrified flagship status in Europe, the performance version inherits the 640 hp output that was previously exclusive to Porsche. This means an RS Q8 that can sprint to 62 mph in 3.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 174 mph.

It also gets 600Nm of torque and, thanks to a new exhaust system, “a sportier, more evocative sound”. Full-time all-wheel drive is, of course, standard (thanks to a mechanical centre differential that can send up to 85 per cent of that torque rearwards, but has a 40:60 split as standard), as is an eight-speed tiptronic transmission and adaptive air suspension. The latter gets RS-specific settings, though it’s the active anti-roll stabilisation you’re most likely to notice; it’s powered by a 48-volt lithium-ion battery. As before, all-wheel steering is standard, so expect the same erratic ability when turning in.

Very few cosmetic changes have been made – think new air intakes and a different honeycomb structure in the singleframe grille – but the familiar RS-style ‘you’re in my way’ vibe is certainly intact. Definitely the introduction of HD Matrix LED headlights won’t hurt it, nor will the choice of five daytime running lights that have been added (fun fact: one is a checkered flag design available exclusively for the RS Q8). There are also some new paint finishes – Sakhir Gold, Ascari Blue and Chili Red – and the performance derivative is identified by the use of matte carbon (instead of black) in the exterior trim details.

Both versions get 22-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels as standard, although the trim gets the option of 23-inch forged wheels that reduce unsprung mass by around 5kg per corner. In addition, the range topper comes with RS ceramic brakes with 440mm brake discs at the front, while the regular RS gets a slightly smaller composite version of 420mm. Inside it’s still the same as before – which is to say very nice – although there are some new, confetti-like design packages to sink your teeth into and some more Alcantara and Dinamica microfiber in places you’re likely to touch, at least not the steering wheel.

“Both the new RS Q8 SUV Performance and the RS Q8 SUV embody sportiness and elegance. The top model of the Q8 series combines a passion for performance, prestige and suitability for everyday use to create an exciting experience,” said Rolf Michl, Managing Director of Audi Sport. The car already did that to a fairly commendable degree, although the introduction of a swanky 640bhp version is probably intended to ensnare buyers who might otherwise have found the innovation too modest for its own good. We will know next month what that means for prices, but the first deliveries are already scheduled for September.