Audi’s RSQ8 Is Here And A Whole Lot Cheaper Than The Lamborghini Urus

• The Audi RSQ8 is priced at Rs 2.07 crore before options and taxes.
• It’s powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine that develops 600PS and 800Nm.
• The RS Q8 does 0-100kmph in 3.8 seconds and has a top speed of upto 305kmph.
• Gets Audi’s MMI infotainment system, four-zone climate control and a powered tailgate.
• It rivals the Lamborghini Urus and Porsche Cayenne.

Audi’s most powerful SUV, the RS Q8, has been launched in India at Rs 2.07 crore before options and taxes. It’s essentially an Urus underneath its skin and is the fastest SUV to go around the Nurburgring, with a staggering lap time of 7 minutes and 42.2 seconds. 

This is no doubt helped by a massive 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine that develops a whopping 600PS and 800Nm of outright grunt. It even gets a mild-hybrid system for torque assist. Power is sent to all four wheels via Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system and an 8-speed automatic transmission. The RS Q8 does nought to 100kmph in just 3.8 seconds while top speed is capped at 250kmph. However, you can raise that to 305kmph by opting for the RS dynamic package plus.  

But the Audi RS Q8 is not just about performance. It can be frugal too, courtesy the cylinder on demand system that can shut off four cylinders during less load. You can dial the adaptive suspension to comfort and enjoy the cruise as well. But if you want to tighten things up, switching to the Sport option on the drive select system will see the suspension stiffening up, steering weighing up and the engine and gearbox in their most responsive settings. Coupled with the all-wheel steering wheel and active anti-roll bars, this performance barge could be as flickable as a lightweight sports car.   

Complementing that blitzing performance are those gorgeous looks. Sure, it might not have that menacing road presence of the Urus, but the SUV-coupe-like silhouette looks sweet while the large 23-inch alloy wheels look meticulously finished. Audi’s single-piece grille sees the inclusion of an RS badge and can be blacked out for a stealthier look. Topping up the design are those dual exhaust tips through which you can hear the V8 roar. 

Step inside and you’ll notice that the layout of the dashboard is similar to the standard model. But the attention to detail here is spot on. All three screens on the dash are RS-specific and the virtual cockpit packs additional features like a lap timer, G-force meter, an acceleration timer, and more. It features sports seats with additional bolstering to ensure you don’t get thrown around while pushing your RS Q8 to the limit.  

In terms of features, the RS Q8 comes with Audi’s MMI infotainment system, four-zone climate control, a powered tailgate, cruise control, ambient lighting, and powered front seats. Optional extras include a head-up display, carbon ceramic brakes, a Bang & Olufsen advanced sound system, Matrix LED headlamps, and a sports exhaust.  

The RS Q8’s main rivals are the Lamborghini Urus (Rs 3.10 crore) and the Porsche Cayenne Turbo (Rs 1.92 crore). Sure it might not have the flash appeal of its rivals, but RS Q8 is the perfect choice for you if you prefer outright performance over looks.