ACKO Drive Awards 2026: Audi RS Q8 Wins 2026 Performance SUV TOTM

The 2026 Performance SUV category had only two nominees this year, the Audi RS Q8, and the Porsche Macan EV. It isn’t a very crowded field, given the price points we’re talking about, but these are both extremely desirable and aspirational cars.

The Audi RS Q8 facelift, launched this year, is the most powerful SUV Audi has ever offered, and it’s this sheer power that impressed our jury enough to give this model the win. It’s imported in limited numbers, but the first batch sold out very quickly. 

The 4.0-litre V8 is capable of a staggering 632bhp @ 6000rpm, and peak torque is 850 Nm @2300-4500 rpm. You also get a lightning-quick 8-speed AT and Quattro all-wheel drive. You can accelerate from zero to 100 kmph in 3.6 seconds. Its 22-inch tyres are great for traction and adaptive air suspension makes for a smooth, stable ride. The RS exhaust system has an incredible satisfying growl. And as sporty as this car is, it can also be tame when needed.  

And of course it looks great too, with an imposing stance and fresh face with prominent air intakes and darkened LED matrix headlights. You get all the interior space you’d expect in an SUV. There’s a digital cockpit, and the centre console has dual touchscreens for infotainment and climate control. You even get a 23-speaker B&O sound system.