Audi: crowning glory for the top model series
SUV WITH RACING GENES Audi's Q series, which is successful in Switzerland, gets an eye-catching top model in some respects with the RS Q8. Outstanding driving performance goes down well in the crossover SUV field. 4-liter V8 biturbo gasoline engine with 600 hp. Reminiscent of a super sports car. But, as Audi Sport GmbH shows, it can also be the powertrain for a crossover SUV. The coupe-like [...]
4-liter V8 biturbo gasoline engine with 600 hp. This is reminiscent of a super sports car. But, as Audi Sport GmbH shows, it can also power a crossover SUV. With this engine and the additional designation RS, the coupé-like, dynamically shaped Q8 becomes a whirlwind in its segment.
Extreme dynamic stems 300 km/h
The 2390-kilogram vehicle can be catapulted from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds. Not only in this discipline, but also in terms of top speed, it has no need to hide from top sports cars: Instead of the standard 250 km/h, it even reaches 305 km/h with the RS dynamics package.
Of course, these are purely statistical values for Switzerland. However, they quickly position the new torque bull (800 Nm) where it belongs: in the top league of all-rounders with the generic term SUV.
Cylinder deactivation and hybrid system
To keep gasoline consumption in check, the engine operates with cylinder deactivation and a 48-volt hybrid system.
An 8-speed automatic distributes the enormous engine power to all four wheels via a sport differential, and the Drive Select driving dynamics system, air suspension, roll stabilization and - especially - the additional rear-wheel steering ensure exciting driving experiences with always sufficient safety reserves.
Individual reconciliations
In addition to the six fixed driving dynamics programs, two RS buttons on the steering wheel are available for individual tuning, as in the RS6 and RS7 models.
The Audi is also less modest when it comes to the wheels: 22-inchers are standard, 23-inchers are available as an option. A ceramic brake system can also be selected for an additional charge.
Comfort and assistance systems
The Audi Virtual Cockpit is essentially familiar, while typical RS features include the Alcantara-covered steering wheel, the head-up display and the shift flash indicator when the rev limit is reached.
The range of assistance systems is almost unmanageable, from adaptive driving assistants to ambient cameras.
Crisp sound from Bang & Olufsen
As a 5-meter SUV, the RS Q8 also has plenty of luggage space: 605 to 1755 liters are available, depending on the seat position. The Bang & Olufsen sound system ensures crisp sound.
Engine data, driving performance and RS equipment are an announcement. That also comes with a healthy price tag. The RS Q8 costs at least 159100 francs.
