New Audi RS Q8 combines sports car pace with SUV space

The new Audi RS Q8, made its world debut at the 2019 LA Auto Show last week and is the first full-size Audi SUV to bear the RS badge.

As such, its pushes the boundaries of performance for a model of this type, a claim that it underscores by being the first production Audi SUV capable of a sub-four-second 0-62mph sprint.

The 600PS, twin-turbo V8 TFSI responsible for this incredible pace will be available to UK Audi Sport enthusiasts in the new RS Q8 from early 2020. The 4.0-liter engine produces 800 Nm (590.0 lb-ft) of torque between 2,200 and 4,500 rpm, to push the RS Q8 to 62mph from rest in just 3.8 seconds and on to 124mph in 13.7 seconds. An electronically governed top speed of 155mph swiftly follows. The V8 draws on a mild-hybrid system (MHEV) that uses a 48-volt main electrical.

The RS Q8 incorporates technologically advanced Audi features, and combines them with outstanding flexibility and maximum everyday usability. This includes RS-specific adaptive air suspension, all-wheel steering, sport differential and active roll stabilisation. Customers can also upgrade to Carbon Black and Vorsprung versions which unleash even more of the sporting potential.

New Audi RS Q8 combines sports car pace with SUV space 1

Special RS displays in the Audi virtual cockpit and MMI display provide information on such things as tyre pressure, torque, output, temperature, lap times and g-forces. The shift light display prompts the driver to upshift when the rev limit is reached.

Luxurious RS sport seats in Valcona leather with a honeycomb pattern and RS embossing are fitted as standard. Ventilation and a massage function are also added to the Vorsprung specification.

The RS Q8 comes standard with the top-of-the-line infotainment system, MMI navigation plus. It includes the Audi connect data transfer module with the LTE Advanced standard and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The navigation system learns the driver’s preferences from the routes driven and can therefore make intelligent suggestions.