Audi has opened the order books for its most powerful SUV yet, the RS Q8, ahead of its launch this month. Interested buyers can book the Audi RS Q8 online on the carmaker’s website or at their local Audi dealership. The booking amount is set at Rs 15 lakhs.
- 4.0-litre, twin-turbo petrol engine makes 600hp and 800Nm
- 0-100kph time of 3.8sec
- Likely to cost upwards of Rs 2 crore
The RS Q8 is a Q8 dialled up to 11
The RS Q8 is powered by a 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine that produces 600hp and 800Nm. Power is channelled to all four wheels via an 8-speed automatic gearbox and Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system. It also gets a host of other mechanical upgrades to its brakes and suspension. Official figures put the RS Q8’s performance in supercar territory with a claimed 0-100kph time of 3.8sec and a limited top speed of 250kph (304kph with the optional dynamic package). The RS Q8 does uphold the claimed numbers by being the fastest SUV around the Nurburgring Nordschleife in Germany.
How do you identify an RS Q8?
Exterior changes over the standard Q8 include a revamped 'Singleframe' grille and a large front air intake. The performance SUV also features custom side sills, a bespoke downforce-generating RS roof spoiler, a rear diffuser and large quad exhausts. 22-inch wheels are standard, while 23-inchers are likely to be optional.
Inside, the RS Q8 features bespoke Audi Sport trim, badging and digital display settings. There’s also leather and Alcantara sports seats, and an RS leather-covered flat-bottom steering wheel that’s part of the package. Like the standard Q8, the RS Q8 will be fully customisable.
How much will it cost?
The Audi RS Q8 will be brought to India as a full import. This means the base price will be easily north of Rs 2 crore (estimated, ex-showroom) considering that the standard V6-powered Q8 costs Rs 1.33 crore (ex-showroom). When launched, the RS Q8 will be up against heavy hitters from within the larger VW family like the Lamborghini Urus and Porsche Cayenne Turbo Coupe.
What is next from Audi India?
Aside from the all-new RS Q8, Audi has lined-up a host of launches for the Indian market as it looks to fill-up its portfolio. The carmaker is set to launch the new Q2 in India later this year. Also on the cards is the facelifted A4, Q7 facelift and new Q3. These are expected to be joined by the new A3 sedan and Q5 facelift in 2021.
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