Audi RSQ8 Performance Unleashed
The Audi RSQ8 Performance is the most powerful vehicle ever created by Audi Sport and it headlines the updates RSQ8 range. Here’s all you need to know.
The facelifted Audi Q8 was revealed some months ago and will be introduced to South African showrooms very soon, but one model was missing; the flagship Audi RSQ8.
Well, it appears the wait was worth it as Audi has revealed not one, but two versions of the fast SUV. Sitting at the top of the family is this, the Audi RSQ8 Performance, which is Audi Sport’s most-powerful series-production engine. The numbers tell a promising story. The 4.0-litre turbocharged V8 has been cranked up to 471 kW and 850 Nm, giving it a 0-100 kph claimed time of 3.6 seconds.
It’s not just about straight-line performance either as the Audi RSQ8 Performance broke the class record at the Nurburgring by a few seconds as it went around in 7:36.698. The previous record holder? None other than the Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT, which shares a few parts with the Audi RSQ8.
The silver car is the standard Audi RSQ8 and that uses the same 4.0-litre V8 and makes 441 kW and 800 Nm. It’s no slouch either, and can dash to 100 kph in 3.8 seconds. Both the Audi RSQ8 Performance and standard model use an 8-speed automatic transmission and permanent quattro all-wheel drive setup. Both cars feature a center differential, all-wheel steering and ride on adaptive air suspension.
Having all that power means nothing if you can’t stop and Audi Sport has given the RSQ8 massive 10-piston brakes for the 22-inch wheels, while the RSQ8 Performance has carbon ceramic brakes fitted to 23-inch alloy wheels.
You can spot the new model with its new paint colours (Sakhir Gold, Ascari Blue, Chilli Red) and it features the advanced new lighting system. Inside, goodies like an Alcantara steering wheel and perforated sports seats are fitted.
We expect the Audi RSQ8 Performance to touch down in South Africa in 2024 and will update this article as soon as we get confirmation from Audi South Africa.
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