Audi RS Q8
The Audi RS Q8 is the German automaker's top performance SUV. Built on the Q8 platform, the RS model uses a twin-turbocharged V8 engine with a mild hybrid boost that provides more than 600 horsepower. But it's not all about the engine: The RS Q8 also comes with 22-inch wheels, carbon-ceramic brakes, and a specially tuned adaptive air-ride suspension along with a performance-inspired interior design. It seats five adults in two rows and offers substantial cargo capacity, as well as a full suite of tech and driver-assistance features.
Explore the evolution of the Audi RS Q8
Get our expert take on used Audi RS Q8 models, or view year-by-year changes.
First generation Audi RS Q8
The RS Q8 is an SUV with serious pavement-oriented capabilities for the buyer who wants a premium performance vehicle, but also needs a practical family car.
It comes with a mild hybrid twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, with up to 631 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi's Quattro® all-wheel drive. Stopping power comes from carbon-ceramic brakes, and the SUV rides on an adaptive air suspension with four-wheel steering. It allows the RS Q8 to firm up the ride for spirited driving, then soften again for daily use.
On the tech side, the RS Q8 features a digital dashboard, a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple and Android phone integration, GPS navigation, a wireless charging pad, and a Bang & Olufsen® audio system. A full suite of driver-assistance features is also standard, with adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring, among other features.
Model highlights
Five-seat, two-row midsize SUV
Twin-turbo V8 engine with mild hybrid boost
Eight-speed automatic transmission with AWD
Air-ride suspension
Carbon-ceramic brake components
Changes by year
Latest generation from 2020 - 2026
2026 Audi RS Q8
2025 Audi RS Q8
Highlights
Midcycle refresh made light updates to exterior styling
Performance trim engine power raised to 631 horsepower
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2024 Audi RS Q8
2023 Audi RS Q8
Highlights
Remote parking system added to Executive package
Rear electric sunshades and Nappa leather became standard
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2022 Audi RS Q8
Highlights
Wireless Android Auto™ support added
Amazon Alexa support with paid Audi Connect® service
Driver-assistance package became standard
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2021 Audi RS Q8
2020 Audi RS Q8
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Jeff Zurschmeide has been an automotive journalist for more than 20 years, covering the new car business as well as motorsports and industry news. He lives in Tillamook, Oregon, at the confluence of great roads, nice weather, and plenty of space for a collection of strange old automobiles.
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