Launched in 2019, the RS Q8 is the flagship of Audi’s SUV line-up, melding the imposing stature of the Q8 with supercar like performance. Its aggressive RS styling, paired with advanced chassis technology and a sumptuous, high-tech interior, creates an SUV that’s as capable on the Nürburgring as it is comfortable for everyday driving. Despite its astonishing price, the RS Q8 stands out as something special – even among rivals such as the BMW X5 M Competition, Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S, Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT, Lamborghini Urus and Range Rover Sport SV.
The Audi RS Q8 is a masterclass in blending luxury with exhilarating performance. Its supercar-level speed, sophisticated technology, and comprehensive equipment list make it one of the most desirable high-performance SUVs on the market and it has incredible presence. It makes little sense when new due to the astronomical list price, but gains substantial appeal as a used buy, where depreciation has softened the initial price.
Jack is an experienced motoring journalist who has been covering the latest new-car releases for the last 10 years.
Read bioNew Audi RS Q8 prices start from £126,990, rising to a base price of £141,990 for the Performance SUV, which comes with carbon-ceramic brakes, and advanced interior upgrades. That said, with the option packs it’s very easy to push the price upwards of £170,000.
Used RS Q8s, from 2018 onwards, begin at around £70,000, with the best-kept examples and those with low mileage still commanding six figures, but it’s still a saving over a new example.
The RS Q8 is only available with a 4.0-litre twin turbo V8 engine – there are no diesel or plug-in hybrid variants.
The RS Q8 is powered exclusively by a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine, producing 600bhp and 800Nm of torque. This powertrain is paired with a mild-hybrid system to help efficiency and low-down acceleration.
It blasts from 0-62 mph in an eyewatering 3.8 seconds, with an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph – though this can be raised to 189 mph with the optional Dynamic Package Plus. Power is delivered through Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system and an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic gearbox.
Adaptive air suspension with RS-specific tuning is standard, providing a range of ride heights and dynamic settings. Four-wheel steering and active roll stabilisation further enhance agility and stability, making the RS Q8 remarkably nimble for its gargantuan proportions.
The RS Q8’s elevated driving position, generous glazing, and standard 360-degree camera system give it excellent urban visibility for such a large, powerful SUV.
Front and rear parking sensors, along with all-wheel steering, make low-speed manoeuvres more manageable, although the car’s bulk is always apparent in tighter spaces and car parks.
On the open road, the RS Q8 is a revelation: the V8 delivers relentless acceleration, while the adaptive suspension and quattro system ensure the big SUV remains composed and confidence-inspiring, whether cruising on the motorway or tackling twisting B-roads.
Despite its 2.3-tonne kerb weight, the RS Q8 feels agile and responsive, thanks to RS-tuned adaptive air suspension, active roll stabilisation, and quattro sport differential. The ride is firm but controlled, with impressive composure over undulating surfaces and a surprising degree of suppleness in Comfort mode.
Switching to Dynamic mode sharpens the steering, throttle, and suspension for a more engaging drive, while the massive brakes and grippy tyres provide reassuring stopping power – the trade-off being a much firmer ride.
Though not designed for hardcore off-roading, adjustable ride height and quattro all-wheel-drive traction allow the RS Q8 to handle gravel tracks or muddy fields with relative ease.
The RS Q8’s cabin typifies Audi’s attention to detail and premium quality, blending sporting flair with luxurious levels of comfort. RS-specific touches include contrast stitching, carbon or aluminium inlays, and illuminated RS logos.
The dual MMI touchscreens (10.1-inch upper, 8.6-inch lower) with haptic feedback and a 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus are standard, providing crisp graphics and comprehensive customisation. The sports seats are upholstered in Valcona leather with honeycomb quilting, offering excellent lateral support through corners.
Heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and ambient lighting are standard, while rear seat space is generous, though the sloping rear roofline does marginally affect headroom for taller passengers. The outer rear seats each have Isofix mounts fitted as standard.
Luggage capacity matches the standard Q8, offering 605 litres with all seats in place and 1,755 litres with the rear seats folded.
The boot is wide, flat, and accessible via a remote powered tailgate, making loading straightforward. In-cabin storage is similarly generous, with large door bins, cup holders, and a spacious centre armrest compartment.
The RS Q8 comes exceptionally well-equipped as standard, including adaptive air suspension, Matrix LED headlights, four-zone climate control, panoramic sunroof, a Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system, Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus, navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features.
Options include the Dynamic and Dynamic Plus Packages (raising top speed, adding carbon-ceramic brakes and additional chassis technology), carbon exterior styling, head-up display, night vision assist, and extended leather or Alcantara trim. Over-the-air updates keep the car’s infotainment and navigation systems current.
The RS Q8 is offered in two trim levels, with extensive personalisation available through option packs and Audi Exclusive. Standard equipment is lavish, with RS-specific styling, 22-inch alloys (or optional 23-inch), black styling accents, Matrix LED headlights, panoramic sunroof, and sports exhaust.
The Performance model adds an extra 31bhp, gets from 0-60mph in just 3.6 seconds and ‘RS Super Sport’ seats, carbon ceramic brakes and weight-optimised suspension components.
Buyers can choose from a palette of bold colours, including Daytona Grey, Navarra Blue, Dragon Orange, Sebring Black, and a choice of bespoke Audi Exclusive shades including some matte finishes.
Interior trims can be specified in Valcona leather, Dinamica microfibre, and a range of decorative inlays. Carbon, gloss black, and aluminium styling packs further enhance the RS Q8’s presence, while a choice of different wheel designs and brake calliper finishes offer further customisation – indeed, it’s very hard to find two RS Q8s the same, such is the variety of personalisation options on offer.
The Q8 range on which the RS Q8 is based achieved a five-star Euro NCAP rating, with impressive scores for adult and child occupant protection.
Standard safety equipment includes six airbags, autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition, blind spot assist, and stability control. Higher specifications add adaptive cruise control, cross-traffic alert, and night vision assist.
Owner feedback is generally positive, with Audi having a reputation for robust engineering, though running costs and tyre wear are significant. Buyers should budget for maintenance and consumables typical of high-performance vehicles – with frequent tyre and brake parts replacements and expensive parts.
The RS Q8’s V8 engine returns between 20-22 mpg (WLTP), with CO₂ emissions from 315 g/km.
The RS Q8 is liable for the Expensive Car VED supplement, meaning first year road tax of £5,490, dropping to £620 per year and then £195 per annum after the first five years (based on 2025/26 VED rates).
Service intervals are every 12 months or 9,000 miles, with Audi’s warranty covering three years or 60,000 miles, extendable for an additional cost. Maintenance costs are high, as you’d expect from such a complex vehicle.
London
Brentford
Croydon
Connect with us
