Audi RS Q8 Facelift 2024: Mehr Aggressivität und Rekord-PS für das SUV-Flaggschiff

The 2024 Audi RS Q8 emerges with a facelift, boasting up to 640 horsepower

Audi's flagship SUV gets refined with an added performance version

Audi has taken its most audacious vehicle and dialed up its boldness even further. For those who thought the RS Q8 lacked a certain edge in aggression and flamboyance, they can now appreciate larger air intakes, an expanded single-frame grille, and a more race-inspired diffuser. Additionally, it features the most powerful internal combustion engine ever fitted into a standard Audi vehicle with the iconic four-ring emblem.

Introducing the Audi RS Q8 and the brand new, even more exhilarating 2024 RS Q8 Performance. Ingolstadt's premier SUV has just upped its game.

Both cars fortunately continue to utilize the highly praised 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine. In the RS Q8, it maintains its previous output of 600 horsepower and 800 Nm of torque, allowing for a sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds. However, product marketing suggests that most customers will likely opt for the RS Q8 Performance model in the future. This variant boasts 640 horsepower and 850 Nm of torque, achieving 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 3.6 seconds. The standard top speed for both of the premier Q8 models is 250 km/h, but for an additional cost, this can be increased to either 280 or 305 km/h.

The increased output of the Performance model is achieved in part by a newly developed exhaust system that is lighter in weight and has reduced back pressure, which is also designed to produce a more distinctive sound. Expect unprecedented levels of admiration from your neighbors. This new upgrade surpasses the previous Audi Sport flagship, the RS 6 Performance, which delivers 630 horsepower.

Both high-performance vehicles come equipped with continuous all-wheel drive, linked to an 8-speed automatic transmission that now boasts quicker shifting times. The mechanical center differential typically distributes power in a 40:60 ratio between the front and rear axles, making it clear that, under normal circumstances, there's a slight rear-end bias.

When slippage occurs, up to 70 percent of the drive torque can be directed to the front and as much as 85 percent to the rear. This differential is designed to enhance cornering precision, reduce understeer, and improve the accuracy of the steering response.

Both RS Q8 models come standard with an adaptive air suspension system. Additionally, both versions offer an optional electromechanical roll stabilization (eAWS) system designed to significantly reduce the body's lateral movements. The power for the eAWS is supplied by a 48-volt lithium-ion battery.

For those looking to push the limits of the tarmac even further, the available Dynamic Package Plus offers enhancements such as an increased maximum speed of 305 km/h, electromechanical roll stabilization, the quattro sport differential, and the RS ceramic brake system (standard in the RS Q8 Performance). Additionally, all-wheel steering comes as a standard feature.

Similar to the product enhancement of the Q8, the top model in the series now incorporates Matrix LED headlights. Customers have the option to upgrade to HD Matrix LED headlights with Audi laser light for extended high beam functions. In contrast to the standard model, a darkened trim provides a visual distinction. The Audi laser light operates as an additional high beam with a significantly extended range. Both the headlights and OLED taillights now offer five different digital daytime running light signatures.

The refreshed RS Q8 introduces new color options including Sakhir Gold, Ascar Blue, and Chili Red. There's also a new 23-inch lightweight alloy wheel available, designed with a 6-Y spoke pattern, and offered in tire size 295/35. These wheels come in a choice of finishes: Metallic Black, Matte Neodymium Gold, Semi-Matte Turned Grey, or Turned Metallic Black. Standard models come with 22-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels (295/40). For those seeking an upgrade, the performance model offers a 23-inch forged wheel option which shaves off a total of 20 kilograms compared to the standard 22-inch wheels, at an additional cost.

Upcoming 2024 Audi RS Q8 Model

2024 Audi RS Q8 Capabilities

Behind the wheels, there's a colossal 10-piston brake system at work, featuring internally ventilated composite brake discs that measure 420 millimeters at the front and 370 millimeters at the rear. Additionally, there's an option for a ceramic brake system to handle deceleration. This system is available as an extra for the RS Q8 and comes standard in the RS Q8 Performance model, with disc sizes of 440 millimeters at the front and 370 millimeters at the rear.

Customers can select from three RS interior design packages available in red, gray, or blue colors. The blue option is exclusively offered for the Performance model, which also features seat belts tinted in an ocean blue shade. Additionally, the steering wheel is crafted from Alcantara material.

The updated RS Q8 is hitting the market with a starting price of €141,900 and will be available for order from June 27th. The most powerful mass-produced SUV from Audi Sport GmbH, the new RS Q8 Performance, has a base price of €155,700.

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