Audi Sport rules Nurburgring with RS Q8, prepares to launch model in PH

The top model in Audi Sport’s Q product line of SUVs—the new RS Q8—is scheduled to arrive in Audi Philippines’ showrooms this month. Together with the new RS 3 Sedan and RS 6 Avant, the RS Q8 spearheads the introduction of the Audi Sport brand in the country.

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Other Audi Sport RS models, including the R8 supercar, are set to be launched in the Philippines throughout 2021.

Audi Sport is the high-performance division of Audi AG. It develops and produces the RS models, which are composed of compacts, sedans, coupes, wagons and SUVs. RS models lead their respective product lines in the Audi range and are defined by distinct designs and a capacity to be driven daily even if these are focused on performance. Besides the RS 3 Sedan, RS 6 Avant, RS Q8 and R8, among other current RS models are the RS 4 Avant, RS 5 Coupe, RS 5 Sportback, RS 7 Sportback, TT RS Coupe, TT RS Roadster, RS Q3 and RS Q3 Sportback.

Every new RS model undergoes development work at the famed Nurburgring track, with each logging at least 8,000 kilometers of testing. Through this, Audi Sport determines how RS models’ powertrain and suspension components perform under extreme conditions. In 2019, the RS Q8 lapped the Nurbugring’s North Loop in 7 minutes and 42.253 seconds—at present the fastest time set by a production SUV—proof of the immense dynamism of Audi Sport’s top Q model.

One key factor allowing for this performance is the RS Q8’s 4.0-liter, twin-turbocharged TFSI V8 engine that produces 600 hp and 800 Nm of torque between 2,200 rpm and 4,500 rpm—output that can propel the SUV from rest to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds, and to 200 km/h in 13.7 seconds. Accompanying the power is a distinct voluminous sound coming from a dual exhaust system finished by oval tailpipes. The engine’s notes can be tuned via the Audi drive select system, which can alter the handling and dynamic response of the RS Q8.

As an Audi Sport RS model, the RS Q8 is equipped with quattro permanent all-wheel drive, which receives the power of the 4.0 TFSI engine via an eight-speed tiptronic transmission. The quattro name represents sportiness, safe driving, technical expertise and peak performance in a competitive environment.

Standard to the RS Q8 is the RS adaptive air suspension sport which, with performance-specific damper tuning, can be set up toward dynamic handling even while retaining the model’s inherently comfortable and smooth ride. The system can also vary the RS Q8’s ride height by as much as 90 millimeters. Such capability for damper tuning means the RS Q8 can be equally at home on the racetrack, off-road trail or city streets.

Distinguishing the RS Q8 from the standard Q8 are its imposing octagonal Singleframe, RS-specific radiator grille in high-gloss black, side air inlets, and the quattro blisters above the wheel arches. RS-specific trim strips further widen the RS Q8’s body by 10 millimeters in front and five millimeters in the rear, providing space for the more generous wheel track. Polishing up the look even more are the RS roof edge spoiler and rear skirt with a diffuser clip that provide increased downforce on the rear axle, and 23-inch sport alloy wheels.

In the cabin, the RS Q8 boasts of special RS displays and graphics in the Audi virtual cockpit and MMI, including a shift light. RS badges on the sport seats, illuminated door sill trims and flat-bottom leather steering wheel elevate the model. The RS Q8 also has a comprehensive range of over 30 assist systems that include adaptive cruise assist, efficiency assist, lane-change warning and 360 degree cameras.

“RS vehicles have a strong and unique character: spontaneous maximum performance wherever and whenever desired. This is achieved thanks to breathtaking design, high-end look and feel, and outstanding quality,” said Audi Sport Managing Director Oliver Hoffmann.