Audi has rounded out the updated Audi Q8 model range with the RS Q8 performance, the new flagship of its SUV offering. 

Its increased output of 471kW makes the RS Q8 performance SUV the most powerful series-produced combustion model in the history of Audi Sport GmbH. Furthermore, the RS Q8 performance boasts outstanding driving dynamics, thanks to an optimised, self-locking centre differential while guaranteeing an equally impressive suitability for everyday use.

According to local dealers, the latest Audi Q8 can be ordered and delivery to Namibian customers be within four to five months. 

“The new RS Q8 performance embodies absolute sportiness and elegance. The top model combines a passion for performance, prestige, and suitability for everyday use to create an exhilarating experience,” said Sascha Sauer, head of Audi South Africa. The exterior
Audi Sport GmbH is intensifying focus on the dynamics of its high-performance SUV. 

A new front apron with striking air intakes, a distinctive honeycomb structure, and a blade in matte grey clearly identifies the RS Q8 as the top model in the series. The large single frame features a reinterpreted honeycomb structure where each individual cell is three-dimensional.

The rear section also plays a part in advancing the model’s position at the top of the range. The two oval tailpipes are the first distinguishing features of an RS model. Audi Sport GmbH has placed a diffuser between them, which is divided down the middle by a reflector.

Ready for anything

Thanks to the most powerful engine in Audi Sport GmbH’s history developing 471kW and 850Nm, the new RS Q8 performance is guaranteed to impress with a zero-to-100km/h acceleration time of just 3.6 seconds. 

By reducing back pressure, the newly developed, lighter exhaust system increases the output of the RS Q8 while creating a sportier, more evocative sound. 

Optionally, the exhaust system can be replaced with the RS sport exhaust system, which further intensifies the sound experience and stands out with glossy black tailpipes. 

Driving dynamics

 The RS Q8 performance comes as standard with permanent quattro all-wheel drive, which Audi Sport GmbH combines with an eight-speed tiptronic transmission with faster shifting times as standard. The wholly mechanical centre differential, with its compact and lightweight design, distributes engine power to the front and rear axle at a ratio of 40:60.

If slippage occurs, no more than 70% of the drive torque is applied to the front and up to 85% to the rear axle. This mode of operation results in more precise cornering, less understeer, and more exact turn-in.

Agility and stability

For an ideal balance of sportiness and comfort, the RS Q8 performance comes as standard with adaptive air suspension sport with controlled damping, which has been tuned specifically for the RS. The ride height varies by up to 90 millimeters.

As an option, this model offers electro-mechanical active roll stabilisation (eAWS), which significantly minimises lateral movements of the body. Both axles are connected by a compact electric motor between the two halves of the stabiliser.

When the RS Q8 is driving straight, the two halves are disconnected, which reduces body movements on uneven roads. When the car corners, the electric motors turn the stabilisers in the opposite direction of each other, which noticeably reduces lateral tilt.

The optional dynamic package plus for the RS Q8 performance delivers even greater performance, giving the car a top speed of 305 km/h. 

Additional components include electromechanical active roll stabilisation, the quattro sport differential, and the RS ceramic braking system (which is already standard on the RS Q8 performance). 

When changing lanes quickly, the rear wheels turn up to 1.5 degrees in the opposite direction of the front wheels. At lower speeds, they turn up to five degrees in the opposite direction of the front wheels. 

Top model

 Like the product upgrade for the Q8, the most powerful model in the series now also uses Matrix LED headlights and is distinguished via a darkened bezel. 

Any of the five digital daytime running light signatures add a striking look. Customers can select the signatures via the MMI, one of which is a checkered flag design exclusively available to the RS Q8 performance. 

For the first time, the RS Q8 uses largely digitalised OLED rear lights featuring five digital light signatures. In conjunction with the assistance systems, they have a proximity indication feature for greater road safety.

Equipment options

An extensive range of new paint finishes is available for the exterior, including three metallic options: Sakhir Gold, Ascari Blue, and Chili Red.