New Audi RS Q8 with up to 640 hp launched

Given the close proximity of the top SUVs that share the MLB Evo platform – Urus, Bentayga, Cayenne, Q8 – it can be difficult to carve out a lead between them, both on paper and in the minds of buyers. But in the wake of the increasingly hybridized Urus and Cayenne (now producing up to 800 hp), Audi has unveiled the latest RS versions of its own flagship, including the new RS Q8 Performance, which earns the reputation as “the most powerful series-produced combustion model in the history of Audi Sport GmbH.”

The word “combustion” is obviously key here: Unlike its siblings, the RS Q8 sticks with the twin-turbocharged V8 as its power source. The standard version has the same 600 hp and 590 lb-ft as before (which, in fairness, we thought was plenty given the resulting 3.8-second sprint to 62 mph performance), but with the Cayenne GT Turbo abandoning its status as a non-electrified flagship in Europe, the Performance version inherits the 640 hp output previously reserved for Porsche. This means an RS Q8 that can accelerate to 62 mph in 3.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 174 mph.

It also has 850Nm of torque and “a sportier, more evocative sound thanks to a new exhaust system.” Permanent four-wheel drive is standard, of course (thanks to a mechanical center differential that can send up to 85 percent of torque to the rear, but defaults to 40:60), as is the eight-speed Tiptronic transmission and adaptive air suspension. The latter has RS-specific settings, although you’ll probably notice the active roll stabilization, powered by a 48-volt lithium-ion battery. As before, four-wheel steering is standard, so expect the same incredible ability when turning.

There are few cosmetic changes – think new air intakes and a different honeycomb structure in the Singleframe grille – but the familiar RS-esque ‘you’re in my way’ vibe has certainly been retained. The introduction of HD Matrix LED headlights certainly won’t hurt it, nor will the choice of five daytime running light signatures that have been added (fun fact: one of them is a checkered flag design exclusive to the RS Q8). There are also some new paint finishes – Sakhir Gold, Ascari Blue and Chili Red – and the performance derivative can be recognised by the use of matte carbon (instead of black) in the exterior panel details.

Both versions come with 22-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels as standard, with the Performance spec getting optional 23-inch forged wheels that reduce unsprung mass by around 5kg per corner. In addition, the range-topping model gets RS ceramic brakes with 440mm discs up front, while the regular RS gets a slightly smaller 420mm composite version. Inside, everything is the same as before – very nice, that is – although there are some new confetti-quality design packages to sink your teeth into, and a bit more Alcantara and Dinamica microfibre in places you’re likely to touch, not least the steering wheel.

“Both the new RS Q8 SUV Performance and RS Q8 SUV embody sportiness and elegance. The top model in the Q8 range combines passion for performance, prestige and everyday usability into an exciting experience,” said Rolf Michl, Managing Director of Audi Sport. The car already did this to a fairly commendable extent, although the introduction of a boastful 640-hp version is likely intended to lure buyers who would otherwise have considered the refresh too modest. We’ll find out what that means for pricing next month, but first deliveries are already planned for September.