New Audi RS Q8 launched with up to 640hp

Flagship performance variant is the most powerful series-produced combustion model in the history of Audi Sport...

Given the proximity of the top-tier SUVs that share the MLB Evo platform - the Urus, the Bentayga, the Cayenne, the Q8 - it can be hard to eke out some daylight between them, as much on paper as in the minds of buyers. But in the wake of the increasingly hybridised Urus and Cayenne (which now output as much as 800hp), Audi has introduced the latest RS versions of its own flagship, including the new RS Q8 performance, which earns the distinction of being ‘the most powerful series-produced combustion model in the history of Audi Sport GmbH.’

The word ‘combustion’ there is obviously key: unlike its siblings, the RS Q8 sticks with the twin-turbocharged V8 as its power source. The standard version gets the same 600hp and 590lb ft as before (which, in fairness, we thought ample given the 3.8-second-to-62mph performance that results) but with the Cayenne GT Turbo vacating its non-electrified flagship status in Europe, the performance version inherits the 640hp output that was previously exclusive to Porsche. This means an RS Q8 that can get to 62mph in 3.6 seconds and onto a top speed of 174mph.

It also gets 627lb ft of torque and thanks to a new exhaust system, ‘a sportier, more evocative sound’. Permanent all-wheel drive is obviously standard (courtesy of mechanical centre differential that can send up to 85 per cent of that torque to the rear, but defaults to 40:60) as is the eight-speed tiptronic transmission and adaptive air suspension. The latter gets RS-specific settings, although it’s likely to be the active anti-roll stabilisation that you’re likely notice, it powered by a 48-volt lithium-ion battery. As before, all-wheel steering is standard, so expect the same freakish ability when turning in, too.

There’s a very light dusting of cosmetic changes - think new air intakes and a different honeycomb structure in the singleframe grille - but the familiar, RS-style ‘you’re in my way’ vibe is certainly intact. Absolutely the introduction of HD Matrix LED headlights will do it no harm, nor the choice of five daytime running light signatures which have been added (fun fact: one is a checkered flag design exclusively available to the RS Q8). There are also some new paint finishes - Sakhir Gold, Ascari Blue, and Chili Red - and the performance derivative is identified by its use of matt carbon (rather than black) in the exterior trim details.

As standard, both versions get 22-inch, 10-spoke alloys, though the performance gets the option of forged 23-inch wheels that reduce unsprung mass by around 5kg per corner. Additionally, the range-topper comes with RS ceramic brakes with 440mm front discs, while the regular RS gets a slightly smaller 420mm composite version. Inside, it’s much as it was before - i.e. very nice - although there are some new, confetti-grade design packages to sink your teeth into and what seems like 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 the RS Q8 SUV 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,” noted Rolf Michl, Managing Director of Audi Sport. The car was already doing that to a fairly laudable degree, although the introduction of a boastful 640hp version is probably intended to snare buyers who might have otherwise thought the refresh too modest for its own good. We’ll find out what that means for prices next month, but first deliveries are already penciled in for September.