Audi RS Q8 Performance India Launch On February 17; Bookings Open

Just months after launching the facelifted Q8 SUV, Audi India is now gearing up to launch its more performance-oriented version, called the RS Q8 Performance, on February 17. Bookings for the RS Q8 Performance have already commenced and one can book it by paying a token amount of ₹5 lakh. Audi India also says the RS Q8 Performance will be available in limited numbers. 

The RS Q8 Performance is the top-of-the-line version of the Q8 and comes with a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine churning out a healthy 632 bhp and 850 Nm, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission sending power to all four wheels. Audi claims the RS Q8 can achieve the 0-100 kmph run in 3.6 seconds and its top speed of 305 kmph. 

Audi’s most powerful SUV looks largely the same as the standard model but comes with a few performance mods. The RS Q8 Performance gets a larger grille, bigger air intakes in the front bumper, larger wheels, a bigger diffuser and blacked-out exhaust pipes. It also gets Matrix LED headlights, like the regular Q8.

Inside, it’s not much different than the standard Q8. It still gets a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen with a second 8.5-inch touchscreen for controlling the HVAC. It also gets a 12.3-inch virtual instrument cluster. Apart from this, the RS Q8 Performance gets an all-black interior with red accents on the seats, doors and steering wheel. 

The RS Q8 Performance is likely to be priced around ₹2.40 - 2.50 crore*, since the last recorded price of the pre-facelift model itself was ₹2.20 crore*. Once launched, the RS Q8 Performance will rival the likes of the BMW XM (₹2.60 crore*) and Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe (₹1.87 crore*). 

*All prices ex-showroom, India