RS Q8
The Audi RS Q8 is a high-performance coupe-style SUV created by Audi Sport as the top sporting derivative of the Q8 range. Introduced in late 2019 and sold from the 2020 model year, it combines a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter TFSI V8 with an eight-speed automatic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive. The original U.S.-market specification produced 591 horsepower, while the 2024 product update introduced a 600-hp RS Q8 and a new 640-hp RS Q8 performance, with specifications varying by market and testing procedure. The period covered here runs from 2020 through 2024 and includes the Base and Performance variants represented in the available ScanRacer data. (caranddriver.com)
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Variants by year
Make: Audi · Model: RS Q8
3 / 3 versions shown
2024
2020
Audi RS Q8 photos
Model summary
Data from the ScanRacer library, organized to compare versions quickly.
Model introduction
The Audi RS Q8 is a high-performance coupe-style SUV created by Audi Sport as the top sporting derivative of the Q8 range. Introduced in late 2019 and sold from the 2020 model year, it combines a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter TFSI V8 with an eight-speed automatic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive. The original U.S.-market specification produced 591 horsepower, while the 2024 product update introduced a 600-hp RS Q8 and a new 640-hp RS Q8 performance, with specifications varying by market and testing procedure. The period covered here runs from 2020 through 2024 and includes the Base and Performance variants represented in the available ScanRacer data. (caranddriver.com)
History
Audi introduced the RS Q8 in 2019 as an extreme derivative of the Q8, a model that had only recently established a new position within the brand’s SUV range. The RS Q8 was engineered as more than a cosmetic package: Audi Sport combined a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter TFSI V8 with an eight-speed tiptronic transmission, quattro all-wheel drive, and chassis systems designed to manage the mass and output of a large performance SUV. Audi’s launch information listed features such as sport air suspension, all-wheel steering, and a quattro sport differential depending on specification. (audi-mediacenter.com) Before the production model reached customers, the RS Q8 gained attention through a Nordschleife lap completed during development in 2019. Audi reported a 7-minute-42-second time for a production SUV, helping establish the RS Q8 as a genuine performance vehicle rather than simply a more luxurious Q8. Such records should still be treated in context, since circuit times depend on conditions, tires, equipment, and the exact vehicles being compared. (audi-mediacenter.com) In 2024, Audi revised the range and introduced a second output level. The updated RS Q8 produces 600 horsepower and 800 Nm, while the new RS Q8 performance develops 640 horsepower and 850 Nm. The Performance version therefore occupies the more focused position within the model family. (audi.com)
Generations
Audi did not present several separately named RS Q8 generations during the 2020-2024 period. The available model years are better understood as one line introduced in late 2019 and substantially updated for 2024. This distinction matters when identifying a vehicle: a 2020-2023 RS Q8 belongs to the original phase, while a 2024 example may be either the updated RS Q8 or the newly added RS Q8 performance. (audi-mediacenter.com) The first phase used a twin-turbocharged V8 rated at 591 horsepower in U.S. specifications and featured RS-specific styling, including an octagonal Singleframe grille with honeycomb detailing, widened bodywork, oval exhaust outlets, and large-diameter wheels. Exact equipment and performance figures can differ by market, optional packages, tires, and measurement standards. (caranddriver.com) The 2024 update brought revised exterior details, additional personalization choices, and two power levels. Audi rated the regular RS Q8 at 600 horsepower with a 0-100-km/h time of 3.8 seconds. The RS Q8 performance increased output to 640 horsepower and 850 Nm, with a claimed 3.6-second sprint. Audi also fitted the Performance model with a lighter exhaust system and chassis tuning aimed more directly at high-performance driving. (audi.com)
Key differences
The key difference between RS Q8 versions is their output and performance focus. Original-phase RS Q8 models used a 4.0-liter TFSI V8 rated at 591 horsepower in U.S. data. For 2024, the regular RS Q8 rose to 600 horsepower and 800 Nm, while the RS Q8 performance delivered 640 horsepower and 850 Nm. (caranddriver.com) The Performance model is not defined by engine power alone. Audi also lists a lighter exhaust system, specific chassis components, and more dynamic calibration for systems including the sport air suspension, active roll stabilization, all-wheel steering, and quattro sport differential. Equipment can still vary by market and option package. Reliable identification therefore requires checking the model year, badge, technical documentation, and installed equipment rather than relying only on wheel design or black exterior trim. (audi.com)
Photo recognition
An RS Q8 can first be separated from a regular Q8 by its Audi Sport treatment. Useful exterior clues include the octagonal Singleframe grille with honeycomb detailing, visibly widened bodywork, more open bumpers, specific mirror and trim elements, and two large oval exhaust outlets. RS Q8 badging appears on the grille and body, although black, carbon, and matte-aluminum packages can significantly change the vehicle’s appearance. (audi-mediacenter.com) Twenty-two- or 23-inch wheels are common on the original phase, but wheel size alone is not conclusive because it could depend on the selected specification. Inside, integrated-headrest sport seats, honeycomb upholstery patterns, RS logos, and RS-specific digital instrument displays provide useful supporting clues. (audi-mediacenter.com) To identify a 2024 vehicle, look for the revised front-end and lighting details, then check whether the vehicle carries the “performance” designation. Audi’s 640-horsepower and 850-Nm figures identify the Performance output level, but naming and equipment can vary between countries. (audi.com)
Important versions
The launch specification is the main reference for 2020-2023 model years. It combines a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter TFSI V8 with an eight-speed automatic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive, producing 591 horsepower in U.S. data. For 2024, Audi separated the range into two outputs: the updated 600-hp RS Q8 and the 640-hp RS Q8 performance. The latter adds a more performance-focused approach to the powertrain, exhaust, and chassis calibration. Exact equipment, optional top-speed packages, and certification figures should be checked for the relevant market. (caranddriver.com)
The name “RS Q8” follows Audi naming, with its rules and its exceptions. Decode a Audi name
References
- The new Audi RS Q8Audi MediaCenter
- Audi Sport GmbH’s most powerful SUVs: the new RS Q8 performance and the updated RS Q8Audi
- Audi RS Q8 SUVAudi
- 2020 Audi RS Q8 Review, Pricing, and SpecsCar and Driver
- Tested: 2020 Audi RS Q8 Delivers Wicked Performance, No RegretsCar and Driver
- https://www.audi.com/en/audi-rs-q8-performance-16061audi.com
- https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a38965998/2020-audi-rs-q8-lightning-lap/caranddriver.com
Technical specifications
Structured data available for versions linked to this model.
| Version | Power | Torque | Top speed | Drivetrain | Fuel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | 441.3 KW @ 6000-6250 RPM 600 HP @ 6000-6250 RPM 592 BHP @ 6000-6250 RPM | 590 lb-ft @ 2050-4500 RPM 800 Nm @ 2050-4500 RPM | 155 mph (249 km/h) | All Wheel Drive / 8-speed automatic | Gasoline |
Frequently asked questions
- What years was the Audi RS Q8 produced?
- ScanRacer's referenced versions cover 2020 - 2024.
- How many Audi RS Q8 examples are documented on ScanRacer?
- 25 published scans from 9 members, with the latest photo added in August 2026.
- What is the power output of the Audi RS Q8?
- The sourced technical data lists 441.3 KW @ 6000-6250 RPM 600 HP @ 6000-6250 RPM 592 BHP @ 6000-6250 RPM.
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