Audi has outdone itself with the unveiling of the 2025 RS Q8 Performance, the most powerful SUV in the marque’s history. This super SUV, which boasts a powerful 631 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, is set to become a benchmark in the luxury performance SUV segment, matching the prowess of its sporty cousin, the Lamborghini Urus. This announcement comes hot on the heels of Audi’s introduction of the 912-hp RS E-Tron GT Performance, showcasing the brand’s relentless pursuit of power and performance.
The new RS Q8 Performance model, part of a refreshed Q8 lineup, features significant upgrades, including a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 engine, the most potent gasoline engine Audi has ever put into series production. This engine enables the RS Q8 Performance to accelerate from 0-62 mph in just 3.6 seconds, with a top speed of 190 mph. Audi has equipped this SUV with advanced features such as an eight-speed automatic transmission, Quattro all-wheel drive, and an optional RS sport exhaust system for an enhanced auditory experience. Additionally, the RS Q8 Performance is now the fastest production SUV on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, with a lap time of 7:36.69 seconds.
The new RS Q8 lineup also brings a revised front end with a three-dimensional honeycomb-style grille, Matrix LED headlights, and OLED taillights. Inside, drivers can choose between red or grey RS design packages, which add contrast stitching to the perforated leather seats, center console, and floor mats. The steering wheel and shifter are covered in Alcantara, adding to the luxurious feel. The RS Q8 Performance will be available in Europe later this month, with a starting price of around €155,700 (approximately $167,000), and is expected to hit the U.S. market later this year. This powerful SUV is set to redefine luxury and performance, solidifying Audi’s position at the forefront of the automotive industry.
Elizabeth Puckett