- The RS Q8 performance SUV returns to the US for the 2025 model year
- The 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 also returns, tuned to 591 hp or 630 hp in the RS Q8 Performance
- Audi estimates a 0-62 mph time of 3.6 seconds
The Audi Q8 received a mid-cycle update for 2024but the High-performance RS Q8 variant was notably absent from the lineup.
Audi finally revealed its updated RS Q8 on Monday night and confirmed that it will arrive as a 2025 model in the US. It will also include a new top-of-the-line RS Q8 Performance.
Many of the changes made to the RS Q8 mirror those made to the regular Q8, such as revised styling, available matrix LED headlights with additional laser high beams, taillights with customizable light signatures, and new interior trim options.
Performance of the 2025 Audi RS Q8
But for the RS Q8 and the new RS Q8 Performance, there is also an optimized self-locking center differential that splits drive torque 40:60 front to rear in normal conditions, but can send up to 70% to the front and up to 85% foward. rear when slipping occurs. Audi said the 8-speed automatic transmission’s shift times are also faster.
A V-8 is still under the hood. It is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 which delivers 591 hp in the RS Q8, the same in the the output model, and 630 hp in the new RS Q8 Performance. The extra power comes courtesy of a less restrictive exhaust system. Audi also offers an alternative RS exhaust that delivers a louder sound and can be identified by the glossy black tips.
Audi quotes 0-62 mph times of 3.8 seconds for standard Q8 and 3.6 seconds for the Performance model. Top speed is limited to 155 mph, but can be increased to 174 mph and even 189 mph as an option.
![Performance of the 2025 Audi RS Q8 Performance of the 2025 Audi RS Q8](https://thegurumedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/audi-q8_100933854_l.webp.webp)
Performance of the 2025 Audi RS Q8
Additional performance features include an adaptive suspension with air springs and shock absorbers tuned specifically for the RS duo, rear-wheel steering and available active roll stabilization. Performance can be further enhanced with an available Dynamic package which, in addition to increasing the top speed to 300 km/h and adding the roll stabilization system, adds carbon-ceramic brake rotors (standard on the RS Q8 Performance) and the Audi’s Sport differential that divides torque steer between the rear wheels and between the axles.
Standard wheels are a set of 22 inches, but 23-inch wheels with 295/35 tires are available. For the RS Q8 Performance, buyers can also choose lightweight 23-inch wheels that reduce unsprung mass by 44 pounds.
![Performance of the 2025 Audi RS Q8 Performance of the 2025 Audi RS Q8](https://thegurumedia.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/audi-q8_100933864_l.webp.webp)
Performance of the 2025 Audi RS Q8
Inside, the RS Q8 benefits from new trim options, including new dashboard details for you to choose from. The infotainment system has also been updated and now includes support for third-party apps such as Spotify or Amazon Music. Audi has also updated some of the driver assistance graphics that appear on the digital gauge cluster and added a shift indicator when the vehicle’s transmission is in manual mode.
Availability and pricing for the US market will be announced at a later date.