The Audi RS Q8 Performance arrives in South Africa as the Ingolstadt-based automaker’s most powerful series-produced ICE model yet. Here’s what it costs…
We’ve already brought you local pricing for the facelifted Q8 as well as the updated SQ8, so now it’s time to turn our attention to the Audi RS Q8 Performance.
Billed as the German automaker’s most powerful series-produced model with an internal combustion engine (though surpassed by the fully electric RS e-tron GT Performance, which generates a whopping 680 kW in launch-control mode), the RS Q8 Performance has touched down in South Africa.
Interestingly, our market has seemingly dropped the “standard” 441 kW version of the RS Q8 in favour of this latest “Performance” derivative. That means the twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine has been uprated to churn out 471 kW and 850 Nm (respective increases of 30 kW and 50 Nm), peak outputs that are directed to all 4 wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission.
According to the Ingolstadt-based firm, the RS Q8 Performance can complete the obligatory 0-100 kph sprint in just 3.6 seconds, making it 2-tenths faster to 3 figures than the 441 kW version it effectively replaces locally. Top speed is electronically governed to 250 kph, though Audi SA offers an optional “Dynamic Package Plus” that raises that figure to 305 kph.
So, what about the price? Well, the RS Q8 Performance starts at R3 266 100, which makes it a considerable R503 200 more expensive than the pre-facelift RS Q8. Of course, in addition to the extra oomph, this new Performance variant gains more standard kit.
For instance, it scores a “newly developed” lighter exhaust system, ceramic brakes, Matrix LED headlamps, a configurable checkered-flag design for the daytime running lights and a shift light indicator (when in manual mode) on the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.
Other items on the standard-equipment list include a mechanical centre differential, all-wheel steering and adaptive air suspension. Revealed globally in June 2024, the RS Q8 Performance can also be specified with the RS sport exhaust system, which Audi promises “further intensifies the sound experience”.
How much does the Audi RS Q8 Performance cost in SA?
Audi RS Q8 Performance – R3 266 100
The price above includes a 1-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and Audi’s 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan.
