Audi’s high-performance RS Q8 SUV has made landfall in Australia. And it really is a high-performance beast.

Powered by a 4.0-litre TFSI V8 with twin turbochargers that produces 441kW of power and 800Nm of torque, the RS Q8 can sprint to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and on to 200 km/h in 13.7 seconds before reaching a limited top speed of 250 km/h.

The RS Q8 is equipped with a quick-shifting eight-speed tiptronic transmission, directing power to the road via Audi’s quattro permanent all-wheel drive. Under normal driving conditions, torque is distributed 40:60, front to rear respectively. However, up to 85 per cent of engine torque can be directed to the rear wheels. The quattro sport differential can provide further adjustment, directing almost all of the rear axle’s torque to either wheel.

During deceleration and braking, the RS Q8 can draw on the 48-volt mild-hybrid (MHEV) system and recover up to 12kW of power while coasting or under light throttle. The start/stop system also draws on the 48V electrical system and functions at speeds up to 22km/h, saving up to 0.8 litres of fuel per 100km. Additionally, cylinder-on-demand (CoD) technology can shut down four cylinders under light throttle load.

The standard braking system comprises of steel brakes, with red 10-piston calipers clamping 420mm front discs, with 370mm at the rear. The optional RS ceramic braking system saves 34kg in unsprung weight and comprises 440mm front discs and a choice of colours for the calipers (grey, red or blue).

The RS Q8 also benefits from dynamic all-wheel steering as standard. The rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the front wheels at low speeds, reducing the turning circle by up to one metre, while turning the same direction as the front wheels at speed. There’s also RS-specific adaptive air suspension that can adjust both the ride height by up to 90mm, and the balance between suppleness and firmness depending on the driving conditions.

The RS Q8 also features an electromechanical active roll stabilisation system that reduces the body movements on uneven roads when driving in a straight line and, when cornering, reduces the tendency of the car to lean into the bend.

23-inch alloy wheels feature as standard, alongside a range of other features, including Anti-theft wheel bolts w/ loose wheel detection, Electric tailgate, Power-assisted door closure, Privacy glass, and Panoramic glass sunroof.

There are plenty of luxurious features in the RS Q8 cabin and with up to 1,755 litres with the backrests folded down, plenty of luggage capacity too. The cabin is upholstered in Valcona leather with honeycomb stitching and standard equipment highlights include four-zone climate control air conditioning; multi-function, 3-spoke ‘RS’ leather steering wheel; electric sunblind for rear side windows and manual sunblind for rear window; and an air quality package.

There’s a 10.1-inch and an 8.6-inch (lower) touch screen – controlled via Audi’s Multi-Media Interface (MMI) touch response system – plus Audi virtual cockpit and Audi Smartphone Interface with approved app integration (Android auto, wireless Apple CarPlay). Additional features include the Bang & Olufsen 3D Sound System, wireless charging for mobile phones, Audi music interface with 2 rear USB outlets and Audi connect plus for a range of infotainment, security and assistance services.

The full suite of available Audi driver assistance systems are fitted to the RS Q8 as standard, including Adaptive cruise assist with Stop&Go and traffic jam assist, front and rear parking sensors, Audi pre-sense front and rear, active lane assist and side assist with cross traffic assist, collision avoidance and turn assist and 360-degree cameras with kerb view. Additionally, there’s tyre pressure monitoring, an alarm and head-up display.

Equipment option packages include a Sensory package, two exterior styling packages, the RS design package and the RS Dynamic package plus (with ceramic brakes and raised 305 km/h speed limit). A selection of eight exterior colours and three interior trims are available.

Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (November 2020)

26 November 2020