The much-awaited Audi RS Q8 facelift will be available in India starting February 17, 2025. Equipped with an even sharper design, updated technology, and tremendous power, this is one of the high-performance SUVs to have the market shuddering on its launch date. The news got more thrilling when the international market witnessed the introduction of the Performance variant of RS Q8; the same variant also took away the crown as the fastest production SUV to lap the Nürburgring circuit. It remains to be seen if this beast will go to India.
Okay. What’s so special about the RS Q8? Let’s dissect it.
Audi RS Q8 Facelift: Key Highlights at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Launch Date | February 17, 2025 |
| Expected Price | ₹1.6 Crore (Ex-showroom) |
| Engine | 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 |
| Power & Torque | 640hp & 850Nm (Performance Trim) |
| 0-100 km/h Acceleration | 3.6 seconds |
| Top Speed | 305 km/h (With Performance Package) |
| Competitors | Lamborghini Urus SE, Porsche Cayenne GTS |
| Booking Amount | ₹5 lakh |
| Booking Platforms | Audi India’s Website, ‘myAudi connect’ app |
Design & Outer Upgrades
The RS Q8 facelift retains the muscular stance of its predecessor but sharpens the edges for a more aggressive look. The design upgrades are in line with the new RS Line from Audi, which will help make it stand out even more on Indian roads.
Also Read: New Audi Q5 Sportback: The Perfect Blend of Style, Tech, and Power!
What has changed?
- The new front end: The blacked-out Singleframe grille with a 3D honeycomb matrix appears more aggressive.
- Carbon and Fibre Elements: Carbon-fibre detailing along the front lip and air intake makes a strong aerodynamics and aesthetic statement.
- New Lighting Setup: New LED Matrix headlights and OLED taillights give the RS Q8 a much sharper look.
- Bigger and sportier wheels: 22-inch alloy wheels as standard, optional 23-inch; Audi is yet to confirm this will be sold on the market.
Dimensions of the Exterior (Expected)
| Parameter | Measurement |
| Length | 5,012 mm |
| Width | 1,998 mm |
| Height | 1,694 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,998 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 190 mm (Adjustable) |
Interior: Tech-Loaded and Sporty
Step inside the RS Q8 Performance, and a driver-centric cockpit, premium materials, and tech-forward features will greet you.
Cabin Highlights
- Sport Seats Plus: These performance seats offer enhanced bolstering, Race-Tex upholstery, and premium stitching.
- RS-Specific Displays: The Virtual Cockpit and dual-touchscreen console provide real-time performance data.
- Four-Zone Climate Control: Ensures optimal comfort for all passengers.
- Ambient Lighting Package: Customizable interior lighting enhances the premium appeal.
- Upgraded Infotainment: Supports wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Audi’s MMI navigation system.
Interior Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Seating | Sport Seats Plus with Race-Tex Upholstery |
| Infotainment | Dual-Screen MMI Touch Response System |
| Driver Display | Audi Virtual Cockpit (Fully Digital) |
| Climate Control | 4-Zone Automatic Climate Control |
| Sound System | Bang & Olufsen Premium Audio |
| Ambient Lighting | Multi-Color Customizable |
| RS-Specific Modes | RS1, RS2 Drive Modes |
Performance: A Monster Under the Hood
The RS Q8 facelift continues to be powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8, but in Performance trim, it gets an extra dose of power, making it the most powerful RS SUV ever.
Powertrain Specifications
| Variant | Engine | Power | Torque | 0-100 km/h | Top Speed |
| RS Q8 (Standard) | 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 | 600hp | 800Nm | 3.8 seconds | 305 km/h |
| RS Q8 Performance | 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 | 640hp | 850Nm | 3.6 seconds | 305 km/h (With Optional Package) |
Advanced Driving Technologies
- 48V Mild-Hybrid Systems: Fuel efficiency and power delivery act smoother.
- Active Roll Stabilization: Body roll reduced during high-speed cornering.
- All-Wheel Steering: Enhances low-speed maneuverability while stabilizing high-speed driving.
- Adaptive Air Suspension: Adjustable ride height and comfort settings.
- Quattro Sport Differential: A dynamically acted differential that contributes torque for traction and handling.
Comparison with Rivals
The Audi RS Q8 Performance competes with the high-performance luxury SUVs out there. Here is a comparative analysis with the most worthy rivals:
| Model | Engine | Power | Torque | 0-100 km/h | Top Speed | Price (₹ Cr) |
| Audi RS Q8 Performance | 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 | 640hp | 850Nm | 3.6s | 305 km/h | ~1.6 |
| Lamborghini Urus SE | 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 + Hybrid | 800hp | 950Nm | 3.3s | 306 km/h | ~4.2 |
| Porsche Cayenne GTS | 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8 | 500hp | 660Nm | 4.5s | 270 km/h | ~2.0 |
Luxury cars excites you? Also read this blog on The German Trio: How Audi, BMW, and Mercedes are Winning India for interesting insights.
Pricing & Availability in India
Expected Pricing
| Model | Expected Price (Ex-Showroom, India) |
| Audi Q8 (Standard) | ₹1.17 Crore |
| Audi RS Q8 (Facelift) | ₹1.50 Crore |
| Audi RS Q8 Performance | ₹1.60 Crore |
Booking & Delivery Details
Bookings Open Now: Interested buyers can reserve their RS Q8 via Audi India’s official website or the ‘myAudi connect’ app.
- Booking Amount: ₹5 lakh.
- Deliveries Expected: Mid-2025.
Final Words: Should you purchase the Audi RS Q8 Performance?
The RS Q8 Performance is a genuine candidate for the ultra-fast-luxury-tech SUV track-capable-but-street-drivable. This powerhouse will keep pace with high-performance exotics while being practical for normal, everyday use. Rugged styling meets an advanced arrangement of tech and Nürburgring performance: the luxury SUV realm gets a little taste of Audi Sport DNA. Worth a look for all speed freaks and Audi lovers.