The Audi RS Q8 stands as a pinnacle of performance and luxury in the SUV segment, embodying the German automaker’s relentless pursuit of engineering excellence and design sophistication. Launched as a high-performance derivative of the standard Audi Q8, the RS Q8 combines the practicality of a premium SUV with the heart-pounding dynamics of a sports car. Unveiled globally in 2019 and introduced in India in 2020, with its facelifted version hitting the Indian market in February 2025, this SUV has redefined what enthusiasts can expect from a vehicle in its class. Crafted by Audi Sport GmbH, the performance division of Audi, the RS Q8 is not just another luxury SUV—it’s a statement of power, agility, and cutting-edge technology.
What sets the Audi RS Q8 apart is its ability to seamlessly blend everyday usability with track-ready performance. It holds the prestigious title of the fastest SUV to lap the Nürburgring Nordschleife, clocking an impressive time of 7 minutes and 36.698 seconds, a testament to its engineering prowess. Under the hood lies a ferocious 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, delivering jaw-dropping power and torque figures that rival supercars. Paired with Audi’s legendary quattro all-wheel-drive system and an advanced RS Adaptive Air Suspension, the RS Q8 offers a driving experience that’s both exhilarating and refined. Whether cruising through city streets or tearing up winding highways, this SUV promises to deliver an unmatched combination of comfort, style, and adrenaline.
In India, the Audi RS Q8 appeals to a niche audience of affluent buyers who crave performance without compromising on luxury. The 2025 facelift brings subtle yet impactful updates, including a redesigned grille, enhanced interior features, and a bump in power output, making it Audi’s most powerful SUV offering in the country to date. With a price tag that reflects its exclusivity, the RS Q8 competes with some of the most elite names in the automotive world, positioning itself as a more accessible alternative to exotics like the Lamborghini Urus. This write-up dives deep into the technical specifications, variants, pricing across metro cities, and a comprehensive overview of what makes the Audi RS Q8 a standout in its segment.
Technical Specifications
The Audi RS Q8 is a technological marvel, boasting specifications that cater to both performance enthusiasts and luxury seekers. Below is a detailed breakdown of its technical specifications, compiled from sources like CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale, verified as of March 2025.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 4.0-litre V8 Twin-Turbo Petrol |
| Displacement | 3996 cc |
| Max Power | 640 PS (632 bhp) @ 6000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 850 Nm @ 2200-4500 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed Tiptronic Automatic |
| Drivetrain | Quattro All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| 0-100 kmph | 3.6 seconds |
| Top Speed | 305 kmph (with optional RS Dynamic Package) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| Mileage (Claimed) | 9 kmpl (real-world estimate by owners) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 litres |
| Emission Standard | BS6 Phase 2 |
| Suspension (Front) | RS Adaptive Air Suspension |
| Suspension (Rear) | RS Adaptive Air Suspension |
| Brakes (Front & Rear) | Ventilated Discs (Optional Ceramic Brakes) |
| Wheels | 22-inch (optional 23-inch lightweight alloys) |
| Tyre Size | 295/35 R23 (Performance variant) |
| Length | 5022 mm |
| Width | 2007 mm (without mirrors) |
| Height | 1715 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2995 mm |
| Ground Clearance | Adjustable (via air suspension) |
| Boot Space | 605 litres (1755 litres with rear seats folded) |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Kerb Weight | Approx. 2390 kg |
| Safety Rating | 5 Star (Euro NCAP, based on previous Q8 tests) |
Variants
The Audi RS Q8 is offered in a single, fully-loaded variant in India, emphasizing its top-tier positioning. The 2025 facelift introduces the Performance trim as the sole option, packed with all available features and performance enhancements.
| Variant | Key Features | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| RS Q8 Performance | 4.0L V8 Twin-Turbo, 640 PS, RS Adaptive Air Suspension, 23-inch alloys, OLED tail lights, ADAS | India (2025) |
Unlike some competitors that offer multiple trims, Audi has streamlined the RS Q8 into one flagship variant, ensuring buyers get the complete package without compromise.
Price in Metro Cities
The Audi RS Q8 commands a premium price, reflecting its performance credentials and luxury status. Below are the ex-showroom and on-road prices across major Indian metro cities as of March 2025, sourced from CarDekho and CarWale. On-road prices include RTO, insurance, and additional charges, which vary by location.
| City | Ex-Showroom Price (INR) | On-Road Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 2.49 Crore | 2.86 Crore |
| Mumbai | 2.49 Crore | 2.95 Crore |
| Bangalore | 2.49 Crore | 2.93 Crore |
| Chennai | 2.49 Crore | 2.91 Crore |
| Kolkata | 2.49 Crore | 2.89 Crore |
Note: Prices are approximate and subject to change based on dealership offers, optional packages (e.g., RS Dynamic Package Plus), and local taxes.
About the Audi RS Q8
Design and Styling
The Audi RS Q8 is a visual masterpiece, blending aggression with elegance in a way that only Audi can. The 2025 facelift introduces a sharper front fascia, dominated by a blacked-out honeycomb grille that’s larger and more pronounced than its predecessor. Flanked by sleek Matrix LED headlights with laser technology, the front end exudes a predatory stance. The carbon-fibre accents on the spoiler, air vents, and side skirts add a touch of motorsport-inspired flair, while the optional 23-inch lightweight alloy wheels—a rarity in the SUV world—enhance its imposing presence. At the rear, connected OLED tail lights and a muscular diffuser with oval exhaust pipes scream performance, making it clear that this is no ordinary SUV.
Measuring 5022 mm in length, 2007 mm in width, and 1715 mm in height, the RS Q8 is slightly larger than the standard Q8, thanks to its wider arches and sportier stance. Its wheelbase of 2995 mm ensures ample interior space, while the adjustable air suspension allows for a tailored ride height, balancing practicality with aesthetics. Available in striking colours like Chili Red Metallic, Mythos Black Metallic, and Ascari Blue Metallic, the RS Q8 offers customization options that let buyers express their individuality. The design isn’t just about looks—it’s aerodynamically optimized to reduce drag and enhance stability at high speeds, a necessity given its 305 kmph top speed with the optional package.
Performance and Powertrain
At the heart of the Audi RS Q8 lies a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, a powerplant shared with the Lamborghini Urus and Bentley Bentayga, albeit tuned differently. In the RS Q8 Performance variant, it churns out an astonishing 640 PS and 850 Nm of torque, up from the previous 600 PS and 800 Nm, making it Audi Sport’s most powerful combustion engine to date. This power is delivered through an 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, which channels it to all four wheels via the quattro AWD system. The result? A blistering 0-100 kmph sprint in just 3.6 seconds, putting it in the same league as supercars costing twice as much.
The RS Adaptive Air Suspension is a game-changer, offering adjustable ride height and damping that adapts to driving conditions. In Dynamic mode, the suspension lowers the car for better aerodynamics and cornering grip, while in Comfort mode, it raises the vehicle for a smoother ride over India’s often uneven roads. The optional quattro sport differential further enhances agility by distributing torque selectively to each wheel, ensuring the RS Q8 corners with the precision of a much smaller car. For those who push it to the limit, the optional ceramic brakes provide fade-resistant stopping power, a must for a vehicle capable of hitting 305 kmph.
Fuel efficiency, predictably, isn’t the RS Q8’s strong suit. Owners report a real-world mileage of around 9 kmpl, though this figure can drop significantly under aggressive driving. The 85-litre fuel tank ensures decent range, but frequent fuel stops are a small price to pay for this level of performance. The engine also features cylinder-on-demand technology and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, which deactivate cylinders during light loads to improve efficiency—a nod to practicality in an otherwise uncompromising machine.
Interior and Features
Step inside the Audi RS Q8, and you’re greeted by a cabin that’s equal parts sporty and luxurious. The Valcona leather RS sports seats with honeycomb stitching offer superb support during spirited driving, while heating, ventilation, and electric adjustability ensure comfort on long journeys. The flat-bottom Alcantara steering wheel feels purposeful in hand, adorned with RS badges that remind you of the car’s pedigree. Dual touchscreens dominate the dashboard—a 10.1-inch MMI infotainment display and an 8.6-inch climate control panel—both featuring haptic feedback for a premium feel, though they’re prone to fingerprints.
The 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit is a highlight, offering RS-specific graphics that display torque, power output, G-forces, and lap times—perfect for track enthusiasts. A 23-speaker Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system delivers concert-hall audio quality, while a panoramic sunroof and multi-colour ambient lighting elevate the sense of occasion. Practicality isn’t overlooked either; the 605-litre boot expands to 1755 litres with the rear seats folded, and the sliding three-seater rear bench adds flexibility. Other niceties include a head-up display, wireless phone charger, and four-zone climate control, making the RS Q8 as livable as it is thrilling.
Safety and Technology
Safety is paramount in a vehicle of this calibre, and the Audi RS Q8 doesn’t disappoint. While the 2025 model hasn’t been specifically crash-tested by Bharat NCAP or Global NCAP, its predecessor earned a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, and the RS Q8 builds on that foundation. It comes equipped with multiple airbags, a 360-degree camera, ISOFIX child seat mounts, and active roll stabilization to keep it planted in emergencies. The Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and intersection alerts, enhancing safety on India’s chaotic roads.
Technologically, the RS Q8 is a showcase of Audi’s innovation. The MMI infotainment system supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, while the Audi Connect app offers remote start and vehicle monitoring. The laser headlights improve visibility at night, and the OLED tail lights feature dynamic animations that signal the car’s intentions to other drivers. Every detail is meticulously engineered to ensure the RS Q8 is as intelligent as it is powerful.
Driving Experience
Driving the Audi RS Q8 is an experience that defies SUV conventions. In city traffic, it’s surprisingly manageable, thanks to its adjustable air suspension and 360-degree camera. The quattro AWD provides confidence on wet or uneven surfaces, a boon in metro cities like Mumbai during monsoons. On the open road, however, the RS Q8 transforms into a beast. The V8’s roar—amplified by the optional RS sports exhaust—is intoxicating, and the 3.6-second 0-100 kmph sprint pins you to your seat. Cornering is where it truly shines; despite its 2390 kg weight, the sport differential and air suspension make it feel nimble, defying physics with every turn.
Critics note a couple of drawbacks: rear visibility is limited due to the sloping roofline, and the firm ride in Dynamic mode may not suit all passengers. Yet, these are minor trade-offs for a vehicle that delivers such a visceral driving experience. Whether you’re chasing lap times or cruising with family, the RS Q8 adapts effortlessly, making it a rare breed in the SUV world.
Market Position and Ownership
In India, the Audi RS Q8 occupies a unique niche. Priced at Rs. 2.49 Crore (ex-showroom), it’s a significant investment, but it undercuts exotics like the Lamborghini Urus by a wide margin while offering comparable performance. Its on-road price—ranging from Rs. 2.86 Crore in Delhi to Rs. 2.95 Crore in Mumbai—reflects additional costs like RTO and insurance, yet it remains a value proposition in the super-SUV segment. Audi India offers a standard warranty (details pending official 2025 updates), and service intervals are typically every 10,000 km or 12 months, though high-performance use may require more frequent maintenance.
The RS Q8 appeals to buyers who want a statement vehicle—business tycoons, car enthusiasts, and celebrities who value exclusivity. Its booking amount of Rs. 5 lakh signals strong demand, with the first batch reportedly sold out in India by Q4 2024. Ownership comes with bragging rights, including the Nürburgring record and the ability to outpace most cars on the road, all wrapped in a package that’s practical enough for daily use.
Close Competitors
The Audi RS Q8 faces stiff competition from a handful of high-performance luxury SUVs, each bringing its own strengths to the table. Here’s how it stacks up against its closest rivals:
Lamborghini Urus Performante
The Lamborghini Urus Performante is the RS Q8’s corporate cousin, sharing the same 4.0-litre V8 but tuned to deliver 657 PS and 850 Nm. With a 0-100 kmph time of 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 306 kmph, it edges out the RS Q8 in outright performance. Its ex-showroom price of Rs. 4.22 Crore in India, however, makes it significantly more expensive, and its extroverted styling may not suit buyers seeking subtlety. The RS Q8 offers nearly identical thrills for half the price, making it a compelling alternative.
Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT
The Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT is another VW Group sibling, boasting a 4.0-litre V8 with 631 PS and 850 Nm. It matches the RS Q8’s 3.6-second 0-100 kmph sprint and tops out at 300 kmph. Priced at around Rs. 2.57 Crore (ex-showroom), it’s closer to the RS Q8 in cost but offers sharper handling and a more driver-focused cabin. The RS Q8 counters with superior luxury and a more versatile interior, appealing to those prioritizing comfort alongside performance.
Aston Martin DBX 707
The Aston Martin DBX 707 brings British flair to the mix, powered by a 4.0-litre V8 from Mercedes-AMG, producing 707 PS and 900 Nm. It’s the quickest here, with a 0-100 kmph time of 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 310 kmph. Priced at Rs. 4.63 Crore (ex-showroom), it’s a premium option, offering exquisite design and exclusivity. The RS Q8, however, delivers better value and a more practical package, though it can’t match the DBX’s bespoke charm.
BMW XM
The BMW XM takes a hybrid approach, combining a 4.4-litre V8 with an electric motor for a total of 644 PS and 800 Nm. Its 0-100 kmph time of 4.3 seconds is slower, but it offers electric-only range and a top speed of 270 kmph. Priced at Rs. 2.60 Crore (ex-showroom), it’s a tech-forward rival, though its polarizing design and heavier weight (2700 kg) may deter some. The RS Q8’s pure combustion power and lighter chassis give it an edge in driving dynamics.
Maserati Levante Trofeo
The Maserati Levante Trofeo rounds out the competition with a 3.8-litre V8 from Ferrari, delivering 580 PS and 730 Nm. Its 0-100 kmph time of 4.1 seconds and top speed of 302 kmph lag behind the RS Q8, and its Rs. 2.38 Crore (ex-showroom) price reflects an aging platform. The RS Q8 outshines it in power, tech, and modernity, making it the more rounded choice.
Verdict
The Audi RS Q8 strikes a balance between price, performance, and practicality that few rivals can match. It’s not the outright fastest (that’s the DBX 707) or the most affordable (Levante Trofeo), but its combination of 640 PS, luxury features, and a sub-3 Crore on-road price in most cities makes it a standout. For buyers who want supercar thrills in an SUV package without breaking the bank, the RS Q8 is hard to beat.
Final Thoughts!
The Audi RS Q8 is more than just a car—it’s a celebration of what’s possible when luxury and performance collide. With its Nürburgring-conquering credentials, V8-powered ferocity, and a cabin that rivals the best in the business, it redefines the super-SUV segment. The 2025 facelift only sharpens its appeal, adding power and refinement to an already formidable package. Priced competitively against its peers, it offers a rare blend of accessibility and exclusivity, making it a dream machine for India’s elite. Whether you’re drawn to its 3.6-second sprint, 305 kmph top speed, or simply its commanding presence, the RS Q8 delivers on every front, cementing its status as a modern automotive icon.
