Audi has opened the order books for its best SUV yet, the RS Q8, before its launch this month. Buyers who are interested can book the Audi RS Q8 online on the carmaker’s site or at their local Audi dealership. The booking amount is fixed at Rs 15 lakhs.
4.0-litre, twin-turbo petrol engine makes 600hp and 800Nm
0-100kph time of 3.8sec
It is likely to cost upwards of Rs 2 crore. The RS Q8 is a Q8 dialled up to 11. The RS Q8 is powered by a 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine which produces 600hp and 800Nm. Power is usually channeled to all 4 wheels through an eight-speed automatic gearbox and Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system. Also, it gets a host of other mechanical upgrades to its suspension and brakes. Official figures put the performance of RS Q8’s in supercar territory with a 0-100kph time of 3.8sec and a limited top speed of 250kph. This is equivalent to 304kph with the optional dynamic package. The RS Q8 upholds the claimed numbers by being the quickest SUV around the Nurburgring Nordschleife in Germany.
How to identify an RS Q8?
Exterior changes over the basic Q8 include a revamped ’Singleframe’ grille and a huge front air intake. The overall performance SUV has features like custom side sills, a rear diffuser, a bespoke downforce-generating RS roof spoiler and large quad exhausts. 22-inch wheels are basic. On the other hand, 23-inchers might be optional.
Inside, the RS Q8 has features like bespoke Audi Sport trim, digital and badging display settings. Also, there is leather and Alcantara sports seats. An RS leather-covered flat-bottom steering wheel which is part of the package. Similar to the standard Q8, the RS Q8 will be entirely customisable.
What will be the cost?
The Audi RS Q8 will be purchased to India as a full import. This implies that the base price will be easily north of Rs 2 crore, considering that the basic V6-powered Q8 costs Rs 1.33 crore. When launched, the RS Q8 is likely to be up against heavy hitters from within the greater VW family like the Porsche Cayenne Turbo Coupe and the Lamborghini Urus.
What is next from Audi India?
Besides the all-new RS Q8, Audi has lined-up a bunch of launches for the market in India since it looks to fill-up its portfolio. The carmaker is to be launched the new Q2 in India later this year. In addition, on the cards is the facelifted A4, new Q3 and Q7 facelift. These are expected to be joined by the Q5 facelift in 2021 and new A3 sedan.