Audi RS Q8 launch confirmed for August 27

Audi India had confirmed that the RS Q8 would be launching in India soon, and we finally have a date – August 27. Audi’s flagship SUV was initially unveiled at the LA Auto Show in November last year and shares its MLBEvo platform with a number of full-size SUVs from the Volkswagen Group. The Q8 has been positioned as the flagship SUV of the brand in India so far, and the RS Q8 will certainly steal its thunder.

The RS Q8 gets a 4-litre twin-turbo TFSI V8 power plant, which is rated at 591bhp and a monstrous 800Nm of torque.This SUV currently holds the bragging rights of being the fastest SUV around the Nurburgring Nordschleife, with a time of 7:42.253. Audi claims that its flagship SUV can hit 100kmph in a mere 3.8 seconds. The RS Q8 will employ Audi’s legendary quattro AWD system through an 8-speed torque convertor, with an optional sport rear differential.

The suspension includes a five-link aluminum setup at both the front and rear axles. Another highlight is the adaptive air suspension, with its RS specific damping which will lend the car a broad spectrum of usability, ranging from the track to off-road trails.The RS Q8 will have the option of electromechanical active roll stabilization (EAWS) for better cornering ability, by compensating for body roll electronically. It will also get all-wheel steering, achieved through a high torque electric spindle drive, which enables the rear wheels to turn up to five degrees, assisting the driver in making fast lane changes.

The RS Q8 will distinguish itself from the standard Q8 by its blacked-out grille, large air intakes and roof mounted spoiler. At the back, there is a more aggressive diffuser and oval tailpipes that are a signature touch of these RS models as well. The RS variant of the Q8 will also get the option of 440mm front and 370mm rear carbon ceramic rotors.

On the inside, the RS gets woven carbon fiber panels with a matte finish, complimenting the RS honeycomb design sport seats, with contrast stitching and an embossed Audi Sport RS logo. Virtual cockpit gets RS specific displays and it gets a shift light as well. The steering wheel also gets the RS mode button that allows the driver to choose between two preset modes – RS1 and RS2. However, the SUV stays practical as well – the rear seats can be folded in to increase the enormous 863-litre cargo space.The dash display is an MMI touch unit which throws out a vast array of performance-oriented information such as a g-force indicator and also has an off-road display setting. The RS Q8 will also take advantage of Audi’s myAudi connect app to help the driver communicate with the vehicle, using voice commands. Lastly, the car will also come with a wireless charging dock near the driver, enabling Apple CarPlay.

When the RS Q8 hits the road, it will take on the Lamborghini Urus, Porsche Cayenne Turbo and the Bentley Bentayga as its prime competition.