New ‘Performance’ variant added to the Audi RS Q8 lineup

Key Highlights

• The Performance variant of the Audi RS Q8 is the most powerful ICE car from the automaker yet.
• The RS Q8 Performance is priced at EUR 155,700.
• Audi will launch the two SUVs in Europe on June 27, 2024.

Audi has added a new ‘Performance’ variant to the RS Q8 lineup. The Audi RS Q8 Performance will be the most powerful ICE offering from the automaker yet. Audi has also updated the standard RS Q8 and given it a mechanical boost. The exterior of the two variants takes design cues from the recently upgraded Q8. The SUV will be available to order from June 27, 2024. The standard variant is priced at EUR 141,900 (~ Rs 1.26 crore) while the Performance variant fetches EUR 155,700 (~ Rs 1.39 crore).

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Audi RS Q8 Performance: Most powerful Audi yet

The Audi RS Q8 and the RS Q8 Performance receive new front aprons with striking air intakes, a unique honeycomb grille, and a blade in high-gloss black (matte grey for the Performance variant). The two oval tailpipes also distinguish the RS models from the rest of the Q8 lineup. The SUVs rest on 22-inch matte gold alloy wheels. They receive exclusive ‘RS’ badging.

The new Performance variant in the Audi RS Q8 lineup is powered by a twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine that produces a maximum power output of 640hp and 850Nm of torque. It can go from 0-100 kmph in just 3.6 seconds. Meanwhile, the standard RS Q8 model produces a maximum power output of 600hp and 800Nm of torque. It can go from 0-100 kmph in 3.8 seconds with its top speed capped at 250 kmph.

Inside, the new Audi RS Q8 gets a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system and an 8.6-inch climate control screen. Audi is also offering Red, Grey, and Blue design packages for the SUV. The Blue package is exclusive to the Performance variant. The 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit in the Performance variant features a shift light indicator in manual mode.

Rolf Michl, Managing Director of Audi Sport GmbH, said, “Both the new RS Q8 performance1 and the RS Q82 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 exhilarating experience.”

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Conclusion

It remains to be seen whether the Performance variant of the Audi RS Q8 will be brought to India. Prices for the standard Q8 start at Rs 1.07 crore and go up to Rs 1.43 crore. Meanwhile, the RS Q8 is priced at Rs 2.22 crore. Audi Q8 rivals the Porsche Cayenne Coupe and Lexus RX.