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Audi's most powerful engine ever makes its debut under the 2025 Audi RS Q8 Performance's bonnet, exceeding even the R8 supercar.
The new 2025 Audi RS Q8 Performance is the brand's most powerful internal combustion-engined (ICE) car in its history, and it'll be in Australian showrooms imminently.
Audi used last weekend's Australian F1 Grand Prix to show off the facelifted model, which makes more power than the brand's R8 supercar, and comes in a single high-specification model grade.
The RS Q8 Performance's twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 is 30kW more powerful than its predecessor, making 471kW and 850Nm all-up.
Audi points out the new model benefits from reduced sound deadening, making its petrol V8 that much easier to hear, a newly-developed, lighter exhaust system, and an RS Q8-specific wheel design that's not only bigger than before (23 inches), but are lighter too.
The brand states the new RS Q8 Performance can sprint from zero to 100km/h in 3.6 seconds, shaving 0.2 seconds off its previous acceleration time.
Pricing for the RS Q8 Performance is $27,500 more expensive than its non-Performance predecessor. However, this price gulf is partly offset by extra equipment and enhanced performance.
It features 23-inch alloy wheels in a unique '5-Y' spoke design, ceramic front brakes, HD Matrix LED headlights, all-wheel steering, electromechanical anti-roll stabilisation, and a lighter RS sport exhaust system.
The interior features fine nappa leather upholstery, brushed aluminium inlays, quad-zone climate control, and power-assisted door closure.
Audi has a single example of the RS Q8 Performance currently in the country, with order books open now. Deliveries will begin in the first half of the year, according to Audi.
2025 Audi RS Q8 Performance price in Australia
Note: All prices above exclude on-road costs
Audi RS Q8 Performance standard features:
Tom started out in the automotive industry by exploiting his photographic skills but quickly learned journalists got the better end of the deal. With tenures at CarAdvice, Wheels Media, and now Drive, Tom's breadth of experience and industry knowledge informs a strong opinion on all things automotive. At Drive, Tom covers automotive news, car reviews, advice, and holds a special interest in long-form feature stories.
