Audi RS Q8 to arrive in PH this month, other RS models to debut in 2021

MANILA: The flagship model in the product line of SUVs of Audi Sport, the new RS Q8, is set to appear in the showrooms of Audi Philippines this December. Along with the new RS 6 Avant and the RS 3 Sedan, the RS Q8 leads the launch of the Audi Sport brand in the Philippines.

Other Audi Sport RS models, which include the R8 supercar, are scheduled to have their debut in the country throughout 2021.

Audi Sport is regarded as the high-performance category of Audi AG. It generates and develops the RS models, which consist of SUVs, wagons, coupes, sedans, and compact cars.

RS models lead their product portfolios in the Audi lineup and are characterized by unique designs and their capability for daily driving while being performance-centered.  

Aside from the R8, RS Q8, RS 6 Avant, and the RS 3 Sedan, among the latest RS models include the RS Q3 Sportback, RS Q3, TT RS Roadster, TT RS Coupe, RS 7 Sportback, RS 5 Sportback, RS 5 Coupe, and RS 4 Avant.

Each new RS model underwent detailed development at the iconic Nürburgring track's North Loop, with each logging at least 8,000 km of testing. This helps Audi Sport assess how suspension and powertrain components of RS models perform under harsh environments.

In 2019, the RS Q8 circled the Nurburgring North Loop in seven minutes and 42,253 seconds — currently the fastest time for a production SUV, evidence of the tremendous dynamics of the top Q model of Audi Sport.

One major factor that enabled this performance is the 4.0-liter, twin-turbocharged TFSI V8 engine of the RS Q8 that generates 800Nm of torque and 600hp. The engine can also drive the SUV from rest to 100kph in only 3.8 seconds, and to 200 kph in 13.7 seconds.

What accompanies the power is a unique voluminous sound from a dual exhaust system, which is finished by oval tailpipes. Tuning can be done on the engine’s notes through the Audi drive select system, which can change the dynamic response and handling of the RS Q8.

Being an Audi Sport RS model, the RS Q8 is fitted with Quattro permanent all-wheel drive, which courses the power of the 4.0 TFSI engine through an eight-speed Tiptronic transmission.

The Quattro label signifies maximum performance, technical proficiency, safe driving, and sportiness in a competitive setting.

The RS adaptive air suspension sport with performance-specific damper tuning comes as a standard in the RS Q8. It can be set up for dynamic handling even while maintaining the intrinsically seamless and comfortable ride of the model.

The system can also adjust the ride height of the RS Q8 by as much as 90mm. Such damp tuning capacity ensures that the RS Q8 can be equally at ease on city streets, off-road trails, and on the racetrack.

What differentiates the RS Q8 from the standard Q8 are its commanding octagonal Singleframe, quattro blisters above the wheel arches, side air inlets, and RS-specific radiator grille in high-gloss black.

The RS-specific trim strips further broaden the body of the RS Q8 by five millimeters in the rear and 10mm in the front, and this creates additional space for a more expansive wheel track.

The 23-inch sport alloy wheels, RS roof edge spoiler, and the rear skirt with diffuser clip, which offers enhanced downforce on the rear axle, provide more refinement on the look of the RS Q8.

Inside, the RS Q8 takes pride in exceptional RS graphics and displays in the Audi virtual cockpit and MMI, which include a shift light.

Other features that enhance the model include a flat-bottom leather steering wheel, illuminated door sill trims, and RS emblems on the sport seats.

The RS Q8 also has an extensive suite of more than 30 assist systems, including a 360-degree camera, lane-change warning, efficiency assist, and adaptive cruise assist.

Audi Sport Managing Director Oliver Hoffmann explained, “RS vehicles have a strong and unique character: spontaneous maximum performance wherever and whenever desired. This is achieved thanks to breathtaking design, high-end look and feel, and outstanding quality.”

Photos from Audi Philippines

Also read: New Audi Sport RS models are speeding to the country