The sportiest Q: the new Audi RS Q8 is now available for order in the Middle East markets

The new Audi RS Q8 is the top model in the Q product line. With 600 hp and 800Nm the large SUV coupe accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds. The first Audi RS Q8 models will arrive in the Middle East dealerships end-March 2020. 

“The Q8 was our biggest selling model in 2019 in the Middle East and we can’t wait to welcome the RS version to our markets this year.” said Carsten Bender, Managing Director of Audi Middle East. “The RS Q8 has the genes of a true high-performance sports car combined with the flexibility of an SUV– so this is exactly where we see a high demand in the Middle East.” 

600 hp, 800 Nm of torque between 2,200 and 4,500 rpm – the 4.0 liter V8 in the new Audi RS Q8 delivers impressive RS performance. The turbocharged gasoline engine with direct injection accelerates the large SUV coupe from Audi Sport GmbH from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds and to 200 km/h in 13.7 seconds. The 250 km/h top speed is electronically governed. With the optional dynamic package, top speed is 305 km/h. 

Its 1-3-7-2-6-5-4-8 ignition sequence gives the 4.0 TFSI a sportily voluminous sound. As is typical for the RS models, the dual exhaust system features an impressive oval tailpipe on each side. The driver can influence the engine’s sound via the Audi drive select system. The standard RS sport exhaust system with black tailpipe trims offers an even sportier sound. 

Audi drive select  can also precisely influence the character of the engine and transmission management, steering boost, the air suspension, all-wheel steering, and the air conditioning. The eight standard profiles also include the individually configurable RS-specific modes RS1 and RS2, which can be activated directly via the “RS-MODE” button on the steering wheel. 

The biturbo V8 in the new RS Q8 combines maximum performance and high efficiency. Its mild-hybrid system (MHEV)is based on a 48-volt main electrical system. If the driver takes their foot off the accelerator at a speed between 55 and 160 km/h, the drive management selects one of two solutions depending on the driving situation and the current setting of the Audi drive select dynamic handling system: The new RS Q8 recuperates or coasts for up to 40 seconds with the engine off. MHEV technology allows for start/stop operation at a speed of up to 22 km/h. 

The interplay of the MHEV components improves ride comfort and also has the potential to reduce fuel consumption in everyday driving by as much as 0.8 liters per 100 kilometers.

The standard adaptive air suspension sport with controlled damping means the new RS Q8 is equally at home on the racetrack or an offroad trail. Its RS-specific damper tuning allows for a particularly broad spread between a setup biased toward comfort and an extremely sporty setup. With variable ground clearance, short overhangs, quattro permanent all-wheel drive and hill descent control, the new Audi RS Q8 can carry on calmly and confidently when paved roads end.

With its imposing octagonal Singleframe, the RS-specific radiator grille in high gloss black and the gloss black RS honeycomb grille, the new Audi RS Q8 sports a strikingly self-confident face. This combined with the solid side air inlets and the blade in high gloss black perfectly highlights the athletic character of the large SUV coupe from Audi Sport GmbH.

The Audi RS Q8 supports the driver in many situations. The comprehensive range of over 30 assist systems includes adaptive cruise assist, efficiency assist, lane change warning and 360 degree cameras.

The first RS Q8’s will arrive at Middle East dealerships by end of March.