Audi RS Q8 Performance
When it comes to luxury SUVs, few models deliver a blend of performance, style, and utility quite like the Audi RS Q8. But for 2025, Audi’s taken things up a notch with the new RS Q8 Performance, packing an impressive 631 horsepower under its hood, along with a host of other high-performance upgrades. And it all comes at a starting price of $137,495—significantly lower than the Lamborghini Urus, despite both sharing similar engineering roots.
Power to Rival the Urus
Audi has long shared its twin-turbo V8 with Lamborghini’s Urus, but until now, the Italian SUV had a clear power advantage. The RS Q8 Performance, however, is closing that gap. With an extra 40 hp over the standard RS Q8, the Performance model’s V8 now churns out a whopping 631 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, making it almost as powerful as the 657-hp non-hybrid Urus. Audi has also tuned the air suspension for a sportier ride, ensuring the RS Q8 Performance handles like a true performance SUV.
This version of the RS Q8 should sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, though Audi’s official numbers tend to be conservative. In past tests, we’ve seen regular RS Q8 models hit 60 mph in 3.2 seconds, so don’t be surprised if the RS Q8 Performance breaks the 3.0-second mark, putting it in serious supercar territory.
You might also like Luxury Redefined The Lexus LX 700h
Subtle Yet Bold Design Tweaks
One of the biggest attractions of the RS Q8 Performance—beyond its power and handling—is its striking design. Audi has revamped the front bumper, giving it more prominent air intakes, a new grille design, and even a three-dimensional honeycomb mesh that adds a sense of depth. The Performance trim distinguishes itself with a matte finish on the grille’s bezel, while the side mirrors, front spoiler, and rear diffuser come in matte gray as standard. For those who want to add a little more flair, there’s an option to swap these out for matte carbon or glossy black.
The headlights are now Matrix LEDs with five daytime running light designs, including a checkered flag look, for a touch of motorsport style. The OLED taillights are also new, offering five selectable light signatures for a personalized look.
Performance Meets Practicality
One thing Audi does well with the RS Q8 is combining supercar-like performance with real-world utility. The RS Q8 Performance, like the regular model, features Quattro all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission, giving it plenty of traction and smooth, quick shifts. Audi has also added a new, lighter exhaust system that doesn’t just add horsepower—it’s also louder and lets the V8 roar as it should. For even more attitude, there’s an optional RS sport exhaust, perfect for those who love an aggressive soundtrack.
And let’s talk brakes. With a beast like this, stopping power is essential. That’s why Audi has outfitted the RS Q8 Performance with standard carbon-ceramic brakes. The massive 17.3-inch front and 14.6-inch rear rotors ensure that this powerhouse can be brought to a stop just as quickly as it accelerates. The braking setup also includes 10-piston front calipers, a detail that reflects the serious engineering Audi has put into this model.
Stepping Inside the RS Q8 Performance
Audi’s interiors are already a step above, but the RS Q8 Performance takes it even further. The cabin is swathed in Alcantara-like microsuede, which covers the steering wheel, shifter, and center console sides. The RS design package plus option goes even further, letting you extend the microsuede to the door panels and center armrests, creating an immersive experience that feels premium and sporty.
Audi’s Virtual Cockpit remains a staple here, with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster that includes an exclusive shift-light indicator when in manual mode. It’s intuitive, sharp, and keeps all the important information front and center without ever feeling cluttered.
A High-Performance Bargain?
With a starting price of $137,495, the 2025 RS Q8 Performance might not sound like a bargain, but when you consider what you’re getting—631 horsepower, standard carbon-ceramic brakes, a tuned air suspension, and a host of premium touches—it starts to make a lot of sense. Especially when the Lamborghini Urus, a close sibling, costs roughly $100K more. For those who want supercar thrills in an SUV body but are looking to save a bit, the RS Q8 Performance is an enticing alternative.
Audi’s refreshed RS Q8 Performance doesn’t just bring more power; it also brings more personality, both in terms of design and driving dynamics. Whether you’re an Audi fan, a power enthusiast, or just looking for a luxury SUV that delivers on every front, this new RS Q8 Performance has all the right ingredients. I, for one, can’t wait to see this beast on the roads, turning heads and setting hearts racing.
