Audi has unveiled its most powerful gas car ever, the RS Q8 Performance, which also holds the title of the fastest SUV around the Nurburgring. This new addition to the Q8 lineup follows the updates to the Q8 and SQ8 models last fall, rounding out Audi’s range of high-performance vehicles.
Power and Performance
- Engine: Twin-turbo, 4.0-liter V-8
- Horsepower: 631 hp
- Torque: 627 lb-ft
- Acceleration: 0-62 mph in 3.6 seconds
- Top Speed: 190 mph
The RS Q8 Performance surpasses even the discontinued R8 with its naturally aspirated V-10 engine, making it Audi’s most powerful gas model to date. This immense power allows it to shave nearly six seconds off the Nurburgring lap time of the previous RS Q8, setting a new record of 7 minutes and 36.69 seconds, over two seconds faster than the Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT.
Comparison with Regular RS Q8
- Regular RS Q8 Horsepower: 591 hp
- Regular RS Q8 Torque: 590 lb-ft
- Acceleration: 0-62 mph in 3.8 seconds
- Top Speed: Electronically capped at 155 mph (upgradable to 174 mph or 190 mph)
The regular RS Q8, while slightly less powerful, still offers impressive performance and agility, ensuring it’s no slouch on the road.
Design and Features
The RS Q8 Performance inherits styling changes from the Q8 and SQ8 models, featuring:
Front Grille: Aggressive honeycomb pattern
Exhaust: Lighter with reduced back pressure and a deeper soundtrack
Headlights: Matrix LED with laser high-beam
Taillights: OLED with five customizable light signatures
Wheels: Optional 23-inch matte gold wheels with 295/35 tires
Brakes: Optional ceramic brakes with 440-mm front and 370-mm rear discs
Additional features include adaptive air suspension, electromechanical active roll stabilization, and rear-wheel steering. For those seeking ultimate performance and style, a striking Sakhir Gold paint job is available, alongside Ascari Blue and Chili Red.
Interior Comfort and Sustainability
The RS Q8 models come with:
Seats: Perforated sport seats with honeycomb stitching
Steering Wheel: Wrapped in Alcantara
Microfiber: Made from recycled bottles for the gear selector and other areas
These enhancements ensure both comfort and a nod towards sustainability.
Pricing and Availability
Germany: €141,900 for the regular RS Q8, €155,700 for the RS Q8 Performance
Europe: Order books opened on June 27
US pricing has not yet been announced, but enthusiasts can expect the RS Q8 Performance to command a premium given its enhanced features and capabilities.
Conclusion
The RS Q8 Performance stands as a testament to Audi’s engineering prowess, combining raw power with refined design and advanced technology. As the most powerful gas car Audi has ever produced, it offers an exhilarating driving experience and sets new benchmarks in the performance SUV segment.
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