Audi RS Q8
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Expert rating
5 reviews
Expert opinions about this car
Expert reviews
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Motor Trend
Motor Trend's evaluation of the Audi RS Q8 focuses on its dual personality as both a daily driver and a track-capable machine. They praise the savage straight-line acceleration and the sophisticated quattro all-wheel-drive system that provides immense traction in all conditions. The 8-speed automatic shifts are crisp, and the optional ceramic brakes provide fade-free stopping power. However, Motor Trend criticizes the steering for feeling somewhat numb and the overall weight of the RS Q8, which is apparent in tight corners compared to lighter rivals like the Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT (though that lacks the RS's refinement). The testers found the ride quality to be generally comfortable over broken pavement, but the 23-inch wheels can transmit harsh impacts. The interior is faultless, with intuitive controls and excellent build quality. Motor Trend's main drawbacks are the exorbitant price (easily exceeding $120,000 when optioned) and poor fuel economy. They note that the RS Q8 does not offer the same level of driver engagement as some competitors, but its sheer capability and effortless everyday usability make it a compelling purchase. The review concludes that while not the sharpest scalpel, it's arguably the best-rounded performance SUV on the market.
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Edmunds
Edmunds lauds the RS Q8's exceptional blend of luxury and performance, highlighting seamless power delivery, superb ergonomics, and top-tier materials. The adaptive air suspension absorbs imperfections beautifully, and the interior is comfortable for four adults. While the steering is accurate but light, the RS Q8 offers a civil and elegant atmosphere. Edmunds recorded a 0-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds and calls it an outstanding all-rounder for daily commutes and mountain roads alike.
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Car and Driver
The Audi RS Q8 takes the already impressive Q8 and injects it with serious performance. Under the hood sits a 591-hp twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 that propels this large luxury SUV from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.4 seconds in Car and Driver's testing. The RS Q8 impresses with its ability to combine brutal straight-line acceleration with surprisingly composed handling, aided by adaptive air suspension, rear-axle steering, and torque-vectoring all-wheel drive. The interior is a showcase of Audi's design prowess, with premium materials, comfortable seats, and the dual-touchscreen MMI infotainment system. The cabin is quiet and luxurious, making it a comfortable daily driver. However, the RS Q8's price tag is steep, and its fuel economy is abysmal, especially when driven enthusiastically. The ride can also be firm over rough pavement, and the steering lacks the feedback enthusiasts crave. Despite these drawbacks, Car and Driver regards the RS Q8 as a compelling performance SUV that offers supercar performance with the practicality of a family hauler, making it one of the most versatile vehicles in its segment.
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MotorTrend
MotorTrend's first test of the Audi RS Q8 delivered impressive numbers: 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds and a quarter-mile in 11.7 seconds, cementing its status as one of the quickest SUVs on the market. The review praises the RS Q8's high-speed stability, the effectiveness of the Quattro all-wheel-drive system in launching, and the well-controlled body motions in Comfort mode. The interior earns high marks for its design, material quality, and the crisp, configurable Virtual Cockpit display. MotorTrend's criticisms include the steering's aloof feel, which lacks the feedback found in rivals like the Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT, and the RS Q8's significant curb weight, which becomes apparent in rapid direction changes. The testers also note the high as-tested price and terrible fuel economy as drawbacks. Overall, MotorTrend concludes that the RS Q8 is an immensely capable and luxurious performance SUV that offers devastating straight-line acceleration and a refined ride, even if it isn't the most engaging or communicative vehicle in its segment. It's a formidable package that will satisfy most performance-SUV buyers.
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Autocar
Autocar's UK-focused review of the Audi RS Q8 emphasizes the car's effortless, calm delivery of immense power. The 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 provides a relentless surge of acceleration, and the RS Q8 deploys it with remarkable composure, making it a devastatingly effective point-to-point machine. The ride quality, even on optional 23-inch wheels, is impressively supple for a performance SUV, thanks to the adaptive air suspension and active anti-roll bars. Autocar praises the interior's build quality, space, and practicality, noting that the RS Q8 works well as a family vehicle. However, the review finds the RS Q8 less engaging to drive than rivals such as the BMW X5 M and Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT. The steering is accurate but lacks communication, and the car's sheer size is a challenge on narrow British roads. Autocar gives the RS Q8 four stars, concluding that it rewards those who prioritize effortless, high-speed touring and everyday usability over razor-sharp handling and driver involvement. It's a deeply impressive and versatile machine, albeit not the most thrilling in its class.
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