2022 Audi RS Q8

Overview

If the amazing Lamborghini Urus is too expensive or too flashy for you, the 2022 Audi RS Q8 offers a similar package and nearly identical performance. The reason for the similarities is the close mechanical ties between these two top-tier hyper-performance SUVs. Although the Audi's version of their shared twin-turbo V-8 makes 50 fewer horsepower, its acceleration virtually as breathtaking. Despite commanding a six-digit transaction price the Audi could and should be considered a performance bargain considering that it costs about half as much as the Lambo. Inside, the RS Q8 offers the same tech-forward cabin we've come to expect from modern Audis, with a dual touchscreen infotainment setup, an all-digital gauge cluster, and plenty of other gadgets. While we'll stop short of calling it the ultimate Audi—that title belongs to either the R8 sports car or the RS6 Avant station wagon—it's most definitely the ultimate Audi SUV.

What's New for 2022?

Audi's most badass SUV is mostly unchanged for 2022 except for a few new standard driver-assistance features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The optional Executive package now includes traffic sign recognition and an Intersection Assist feature, while a new RS-Design package is available and includes carpeted floormats with the RS logo, striped seatbelts, and faux-suede Alcantara upholstery on the center console, steering wheel, and shift knob.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

The RS Q8 comes with a six-figure price tag, but its performance, styling, and featured content are likely to be worth the investment. All RS Q8 models come with a standard adaptive air suspension system, 22-inch wheels, heated and ventilated front seats, and a 17-speaker Bang & Olufsen stereo system.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The RS Q8 has a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 engine that produces 591 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with the Quattro all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed automatic, and there's also a 48-volt hybrid system to improve fuel efficiency. In November 2019, Audi set a record at the Nürburgring race course with a camouflaged prototype of the RS Q8. When we tested the RS Q8, it blasted to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds, only 0.1 second behind the far more expensive Urus.

View Photos

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

EPA fuel-economy estimates for the RS Q8 are a dismal 13 mpg city and 19 mpg highway. That's the price you pay for the RS Q8's performance potential. We haven't had a chance to test the RS Q8 on our 75-mph highway fuel economy test route, but when we do we will update this story with its test results. For more information about the RS Q8's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The RS Q8's five-seat cabin is mostly the same as the Q8's, although it has some special trim pieces and sportier, more aggressively bolstered front seats to hold you in place while cornering. There are also RS logos sprinkled throughout. Passenger and cargo space carries over unchanged from the regular Q8 model, which means plenty of legroom and headroom for adults in both rows of seats. In our testing, the Q8 held eight carry-on suitcases behind its rear seat and 23 in total with the rear seat folded.

View Photos

Infotainment and Connectivity

The Audi Virtual Cockpit digital gauge cluster and dual-touchscreen MMI interface have certain RS-specific displays that can show information such as torque and power output, lap times, and g-forces. Other than that, we expect the same technology offered in the Q8, including standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, navigation, and SiriusXM satellite radio.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Audi offers several driver-assistance systems on the RS Q8 as standard, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. For more information about the RS Q8's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

• Standard automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection
• Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
• Standard adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Audi offers an average standard warranty that, when compared with other premium brands, looks pretty basic. Jaguar offers more value here, with longer warranties and five years of complimentary scheduled maintenance.

• Limited warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles
• No complimentary scheduled maintenance

More Features and Specs