Johannesburg – Audi South Africa has introduced the RS Q8 performance, completing the updated Q8 range with a new benchmark in high-performance SUVs. Boasting a staggering 471kW of power, the RS Q8 performance is officially the most powerful series-produced combustion model in the history of Audi Sport GmbH. This formidable SUV also lays claim to the production SUV lap record at the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife, clocking an impressive 7:36.698 minutes.
Commanding Presence: Exterior Design
The RS Q8 performance asserts its dominance with an unmistakable Audi Sport GmbH design. A redesigned front apron with striking air intakes and a bold honeycomb grille structure emphasises its aggressive stance. Matte grey accents highlight the vehicle’s sporting credentials, while a reworked rear diffuser and signature oval RS tailpipes complete the performance aesthetic. The RS Q8 performance is available in a selection of striking colours, including Sakhir Gold, Ascari Blue, and Chili Red, with further customisation offered via Audi exclusive paint finishes.
Unrivalled Power: V8 Performance at Its Peak
At the heart of the RS Q8 performance lies a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, delivering an astonishing 471kW and 850Nm of torque. This enables the SUV to sprint from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.6 seconds. A newly developed, lighter exhaust system enhances power output while producing an exhilarating exhaust note, further amplified by the optional RS sport exhaust system with gloss black tailpipes.
Precision Handling: Quattro and Advanced Suspension
Equipped with Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed tiptronic transmission, the RS Q8 performance offers unparalleled traction and agility. A self-locking centre differential optimally distributes torque between the front and rear axles, ensuring precise cornering and maximum control.
The RS Q8 performance features adaptive air suspension sport with controlled damping as standard, providing an ideal balance between comfort and dynamic handling. Optional electromechanical active roll stabilisation (eAWS) significantly reduces body roll during spirited driving, while all-wheel steering enhances both high-speed stability and low-speed manoeuvrability.
For those seeking ultimate performance, the optional dynamic package plus increases the top speed to 305km/h and includes RS ceramic brakes for superior stopping power.
Next-Generation Lighting and Interior Excellence
Advanced Matrix LED headlights, featuring five digital daytime running light signatures, set the RS Q8 performance apart. Exclusive to this model is a checkered flag light signature, a nod to its motorsport pedigree. OLED rear lights, with a proximity indication feature, further enhance safety and visibility.
Inside, the RS Q8 performance exudes luxury and sportiness, with high-quality materials and intricate detailing. Customers can choose from RS design packages in red, grey, or Ocean Blue, which add bespoke stitching to the centre console, floor mats, and steering wheel. The optional 23-inch lightweight alloy wheels, available in multiple finishes, not only enhance the SUV’s stance but also optimise brake cooling and reduce unsprung mass.
Record-Breaking Performance: Nürburgring Champion
The RS Q8 performance has cemented its place in history as the fastest production SUV to lap the Nürburgring Nordschleife. Racing and development driver Frank Stippler achieved an impressive lap time of 7:36.698 minutes, surpassing the previous record-holder in the SUV category and shaving almost six seconds off the RS Q8’s prior best.
“The RS Q8 performance owes its new lap record not only to the perfect synergy between its V8 engine and suspension components but also to the unwavering dedication of Audi Sport GmbH to absolute performance,” says Rolf Michl, Managing Director of Audi Sport GmbH.
The Full Q8 Range Now Available
With the launch of the RS Q8 performance, Audi South Africa now offers a comprehensive lineup within the updated Q8 range. Pricing is as follows:
- Q8 45 TDI quattro Tiptronic Platinum Edition – R1,968,700
- Q8 45 TDI quattro Tiptronic Black Edition – R2,015,400
- Q8 55 TFSI quattro Tiptronic Platinum Edition – R2,011,700
- Q8 55 TFSI quattro Tiptronic Black Edition – R2,058,400
- SQ8 TFSI quattro Tiptronic – R2,640,500
- SQ8 TFSI quattro Tiptronic Black Edition – R2,675,500
- RS Q8 performance quattro Tiptronic – R3,266,100
Each model in the Q8 range comes standard with Audi’s 5-year/100,000km Freeway Plan, ensuring peace of mind ownership.
With its breathtaking power, cutting-edge technology, and record-breaking performance, the RS Q8 performance is the ultimate expression of Audi Sport GmbH’s engineering prowess. Whether carving through corners or cruising in supreme comfort, this high-performance SUV redefines what is possible in the luxury performance segment.
