“For the first time in the 25-year history of Audi RS models, we have combined a large SUV coupe with the credentials of a high-performance sports car,” said Dean Sheed, General Manager of Audi NZ. “With its biturbo V8 TFSI engine the Audi RS Q8 is a dynamic, top of the range example within the RS family. There is also an exhaustive list of optional design features, giving customers the chance to uniquely tailor this 4.0 litre quattro to suit their lifestyle.”

The model’s engine produces 441 kW and 800 Nm of torque. This combined with the quattro permanent all-wheel drive and Tiptronic with 8-speed automatic transmission results in unparalleled performance within the SUV range. This power allows the car to go from zero to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds. Efficiency is also part of its DNA with a 48-volt mild hybrid system and cylinder on demand technology, which can switch off four cylinders at low to medium load and engine speed and therefore save fuel by as much as 0.8 litres per 100 kilometers.

From the front the RS bumpers stand out with their sporty, dynamic design with the radiator grille in the iconic honeycombe structure. The large air intakes, as well as the front spoiler and single frame grille are further design details that highlight the sporty, dynamic design. The rear of the car is striking thanks in part to the RS-specific diffuser insert in glossy black, with a horizontal web created in carbon as an option, plus the typical RS tailpipes. Typical for the RS models, the dual exhaust system features an impressive oval tailpipe on each side. The driver can influence the engine’s sound via the Audi drive select system. The optional RS sport exhaust system with black tailpipe trims offers an even sportier sound.

The RS roof edge spoiler ensures a balanced drive even at high speeds. The roof line slopes towards the rear and the wheel arches have been widened by up to ten millimetres to emphasis its powerful stature. The model also comes with active torque vectoring which improves traction, stability and dynamics and means the car is equally at home on the racetrack or offroad.

The new Audi RS Q8 offers legendary quattro drive with sport differential for wheel-selective power distribution. Supporting that is the standard adaptive air suspension with RS-characteristic tuning together with the standard all-wheel steering for agile response and high driving stability. The standard electromechanical roll stabilization also improves the dynamic handling, especially on curves. The RS Q8 also comes with the Audi drive select dynamic handling system, where drivers can choose from eight profiles: comfort, auto, dynamic, efficiency, allroad, offroad and the individually configurable RS-specific modes RS1 and RS2, which can be activated directly via the “RS-MODE” button on the steering wheel.

23-inch aluminum wheels in a 5Y-spoke design with 295/35-series tyres come as standard and a variety of colors are available exclusively for the RS Q8. Behind the large wheels is an RS brake system with calipers painted red as standard, andavailable in ceramic glossy anthracite grey or red as an option.

The new Audi RS Q8 is available in a choice of nine colors: one solid paint finish and eight metallic or pearl effect shades. The exterior mirror housings come standard in aluminium, with black or carbon available as options.

HD Matrix LED headlights with dynamic light design and dynamic turn signalcome as standard which have a three-dimensional daytime running lightsignature with a digital character, similar to the LED tail lights. A light strip backed by a high-gloss black surface joins the rear lights, further emphasising the wide stance.

The interior of the new RS Q8 features a deliberately clean design. The slim instrument panel and the horizontal lines convey a feeling of spaciousness. The central element in the cockpit is the top MMI touch response display. With its black-panel look, it almost dissolves into a large, black surface when switched off. The comprehensive range of assist systems including such things as the adaptive cruise control, efficiency assist, intersection assist, lane change warning and 360 degree cameras, supporting the driver in any situation.

Special RS displays in the Audi virtual cockpit and MMI display provide information on such things as tyre pressure, torque, output, temperature, lap times and g-forces. The shift light display prompts the driver to upshift when the rev limit is reached. The optional head-up display also offers several RS-specific graphics.

The RS sport seats in black Valcona Leather with honeycomb stitching with RS embossing fit perfectly into the athletic ambiance of the interior. Luxurious options include ventelation and massage function on the front seats. As you’d expect from a SUV, it has uncompromised usuable space in the rear with a luggage compartment holding up to 1,755 litres.

“The RS Q8 is packed full of features and a range of optional extras. It will appeal to customers who appreciate the sportiness of the RS 7 but want to match that with the practical elements of a SUV,” commented Sheed. “We have an exclusive run of stock available now, so would advise customers to register their interest so they don’t miss out.”