2025 Audi RS Q8 & RS Q8 Performance breaks cover

Kenneth John Published: June 25, 2024, 12:29 PM IST

Last week Audi updated the e-tron GT and also confirmed that the Q6 e-tron will be coming to India later in 2024. As for the petrolheads, Audi has now updated the RS Q8 for the upcoming model year and the biggest upgrade comes in the form of a new top-of-the-line Performance variant that produces 40PS more than the standard RS Q8.

Audi RS Q8 & RS Q8 Performance: Powertrain

The RS Q8's 4.0-litre, twin-turbo V8 engine produces 600PS and 800Nm of torque, but the Performance variant increases that to 640PS and 850Nm of torque, which is transmitted to all four wheels via the 8-speed Tiptronic gearbox and permanent Quattro all-wheel drive.

The additional horsepower comes from a less restricted exhaust system. Audi now provides an alternate RS exhaust with a stronger sound and glossy black tips. Audi claims that the basic RS Q8 will go from 0 to 100 kmph in 3.8 seconds, while the Performance variant will take 3.6 seconds. The highest speed is limited to 250 kmph, however, it may be increased to 280 kmph or 304 kmph as an option.

Audi RS Q8 & RS Q8 Performance: Suspension and Brakes

Both RS Q8s are equipped with an adjustable air suspension system that offers an amazing 3.5 inches of ride height adjustment. Additionally, rear-wheel steering is standard, which improves stability on the highway and increases mobility at low speeds. There are also active electrical anti-roll stabilizers that counteract body roll.

The stopping power comes from large front discs measuring 420mm with ten-piston callipers and rear discs measuring 370mm. Nevertheless, 23-inch Y-spoke light-alloy wheels and front and rear carbon ceramic discs are also available as options for the performance edition. Both variants are equipped with 22-inch ten-spike light alloy wheels as standard.

Audi RS Q8 & RS Q8 Performance: Exterior and Interior

The Audi RS Q8 has a redesigned front end with a new bumper that has larger air intakes. In addition to the Performance upgrades, the slightly more subdued RS Q8 and the Performance variant receive new Matrix LED lighting, paint schemes, and wheel styles.

The inside of the RS Q8 has been improved with new trim choices, which include new dash elements. Additionally, the infotainment system has been modified to allow third-party apps like Spotify and Amazon Music. Additionally, Audi introduced a shift indication for when the vehicle's gearbox is in manual mode, as well as updated some of the driver-assist visuals that are displayed in the digital gauge cluster.