Audi Showcases RS Q8 Outwitting R8 Supercar, Audi’s Powerful 2025 ICE Car

Jun 25, 2024 05:16 AM EDT

AUDI R8 AUDI SPORTS CAR FAST RED — (Photo : PIXABAY/BookBabe)

Audi's RS Q8 is making a comeback in the U.S. The 2025 RS Q8 model promises to return its twin-turbo-charged 4.0-liter tuned to 591 hp or 630 hp. Audi, owned by The Volkswagen Group, unleashed its updated RS Q8 on Monday.

2024: Audi RS Q8 Mid-Cycle Update

Audi's latest announcement unveiled the refreshed RS Q8 to the public, confirming its upcoming release as a 2025 model in the United States. Additionally, the lineup will feature an exciting addition, the introduction of the new RS Q8 Performance flagship variant.

Notable updates were given to this 2025 Audi model. As to the report by Road & Track, Audi has concluded its improvements to the Q8 series with the most recent RS Q8 facelift. The new RS Q8 Performance variant is the range's most notable addition.

The same 4.0-liter V-8 twin-turbo engine that powered the original RS Q8 and RS Q8 Performance versions is now available with two different power levels. The Performance version of the RS Q8 sets a new bar for Audi's production engines with its astounding 631 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque.

While the normal model sports an astonishing 591 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, the performance model has a modified exhaust system that lowers back pressure and enhances its sporty sound profile.

Customers have the option to outfit their RS Q8 with the RS performance exhaust system, which has beautiful black exhaust tips and increases the sound output for an even more thrilling experience.

The updated RS Q8 was revealed to the public in Audi's most recent announcement, indicating that it will go on sale in the US in 2025. With the launch of the new RS Q8 Performance flagship model, the lineup will also see an interesting addition.

Power, Price, Other Features

Enhancements were also noticeable on its cabin and exterior. Autocar recently delved into the enhancements made to the Audi RS Q8, with a particular focus on the Performance model. Noteworthy is the adoption of the self-locking central differential, a feature shared with the RS Q8, aimed at reducing understeer and enhancing cornering precision and agility.

Standard across the RS lineup are adaptive air suspension and a launch control system, ensuring optimal performance capabilities. The introduction of the Performance variant is part of an extensive update for the RS Q8.

Visually, both the new RS Q8 Performance and the RS Q8 showcase a striking resemblance, distinguishing themselves from the Q8 through muscular body styling, a redesigned honeycomb grille, and updated front and rear aesthetics. Equipped with matrix LED headlights and customizable OLED rear lights, these models exude a distinct presence on the road.

Distinctive elements such as a prominent rear diffuser, imposing oval tailpipes, exclusive matte gold 22-inch alloy wheels, and bold RS badging further differentiate them from standard SUVs.

Inside the cabin, Audi has elevated the driving experience by enhancing the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster to include a gearchange indicator for precise shifts in manual mode. Key interior functions can be managed through the intuitive split infotainment (10.1-inch) and climate control (8.6-inch) screens, mirroring the setup found in the Q8.

Autocar reported that in Germany, the RS Q8 is priced starting at €141,900 (£119,900), while the RS Q8 Performance begins at €155,700 (£131,600). The UK pricing details are anticipated to be revealed in the upcoming weeks.

MotorAuthority shed light on the interior enhancements of the RS Q8, highlighting the introduction of new trim options and dash accents for added customization.

The updated infotainment system now supports third-party apps like Spotify and Amazon Music, offering a seamless digital experience. Details regarding availability and pricing for the U.S. market are set to be disclosed at a later stage.