A mid-generation enhancement graced the Audi Q8 in 2024, however, the mighty RS Q8 iteration was conspicuously missing from the revealed collection.
Audi has at last introduced the refreshed RS Q8 late Monday evening and verified its debut as a 2025 model within the U.S. It will also be featured as the new apex RS Q8 Performance version.
Reflecting the updates seen on the standard Q8, the RS Q8 features updated aesthetics, optional matrix LED headlamps with supplementary laser high beams, rear lights with personalizable light patterns, and fresh choices in cabin trim.
2025 Audi RS Q8 Performance
The RS Q8 and the new RS Q8 Performance also benefit from a refined self-locking central differential that usually channels the drive force at a ratio of 40:60 between the front and rear wheels, but has the capacity to direct up to 70% forwards and 85% to the rear when required. Moreover, Audi states that the 8-speed automatic gearbox offers accelerated shift periods.
Still dominating the powertrain is a dual-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 engine, producing the same 591 horsepower in the standard RS Q8 as the predecessor, and an augmented 630 horsepower in the newly introduced RS Q8 Performance, achieved through an exhaust system with fewer restrictions. Audi also supplies an alternative RS exhaust for a more robust auditory experience, distinguished by its gleaming black tips.
The acceleration benchmarks for the standard RS Q8 are marked at 3.8 seconds for the 0-62 mph, and an even brisker 3.6 seconds for the Performance variant. Velocity peaks have been set at 155 mph but can ascend to 174 mph, or even to 189 mph with certain upgrades.
2025 Audi RS Q8 Performance
Further performance refinements incorporate an adaptable suspension with air springs and dampers specifically configured for the RS models, all-wheel steering, and an optional active anti-roll system. Performance may yet see further upgrades with the optional Dynamic package which includes, in addition to a higher sped cap of 189 mph and the anti-roll feature, carbon ceramic brake discs (the standard choice for RS Q8 Performance), plus Audi’s performance-oriented Sport differential that distributess drive force between the rear wheels, in addition to between the axles.
Factory wheels come in a 22-inch size, but there’s an option for 23-inch rims sporting 295/35 tires. For the RS Q8 Performance, a set of lighter 23-inch wheels is available reducing unsprung weight by 44 pounds.
2025 Audi RS Q8 Performance
The interior of the RS Q8 is adorned with new trimming selections, encompassing dashboard accentuations to opt from. Updates adorn the infotainment platform as well, now integrating third-party application support for services like Spotify or Amazon Music. Audi has refreshed some of the driver support display graphics within the digital instrument panel, too, and introduced a gear-shift indicator for when the vehicle operates in manual gear selection mode.
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