Developed by Audi Sport, it holds the Nurburgring lap record for production SUVs
Audi has once again set the standard for driving dynamics with the new RS Q8 Performance, which presently holds the fastest lap record for production SUVs at the legendary Nurburgring Nordschleife with a time of 7 minutes and 36.698 seconds.
The model, developed by high-performance division Audi Sport, is the most powerful SUV the brand has ever produced. It is equipped with a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine generating 640 hp and 850 Nm of torque.
An 8-speed transmission delivers the new RS Q8 Performance’s power output to Audi’s acclaimed quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. This combination of power, precision, and poise allows the super SUV to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds. Top speed is 305 km/h, further underscoring the model’s capabilities on the track and beyond.
The new RS Q8 Performance’s record lap time is made possible by numerous enhancements to its power plant and chassis components.
Among these is a newly developed exhaust system that is both lighter and more free-flowing, reducing back pressure and allowing for more aggressive acceleration. This updated exhaust also contributes to the RS Q8 Performance’s sportier sound profile, intensified by an RS sport exhaust system featuring gloss black tailpipes.
Fitted to the RS Q8 Performance is the adaptive sport air suspension with RS-specific tuning that adjusts ride height by up to 90 millimeters. Electromechanical active roll stabilization, using electric motors on the stabilizer bars to counteract body roll, ensures both comfort and dynamic response.
Complementing the adaptive chassis is a mechanical center differential that distributes torque between the front and rear axles. If slippage is detected, 70% of torque can be applied to the front axle and up to 85% to the rear. This setup, combined with rear-wheel steering, allows for precise cornering, improved stability, and tighter maneuverability at low speeds.
The new RS Q8 Performance is equipped with an RS ceramic brake system. Featuring 440-millimeter front and 370-millimeter rear discs, the system weighs less and has better heat resistance, benefiting performance during dynamic driving.
Distinguishing the new RS Q8 Performance apart are matte gray exterior details, a revised front apron with larger air intakes, and exclusive 23-inch forged alloy wheels that reduce unsprung mass by around 20 kilograms. These not only contribute to the model’s dynamic capability, but also improve throttle response and brake cooling. High-performance Pirelli P Zero tires ensure optimal grip on both dry and wet surfaces.
Audi’s most powerful SUV now also uses Matrix LED headlights with Audi laser lights, and OLED rear lights featuring five digital light signatures.
Inside, the new RS Q8 Performance gets the exclusive RS design package that includes perforated sport seats plus in front with contrasting color inserts. The 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit features an RS-specific layout with a motorsport-style shift indicator and launch control graphics.
Clearly, the new RS Q8 Performance’s Nurburgring lap record comes as much from the perfect interplay between the engine and suspension components, as well as from Audi’s passion for absolute performance.
