On the winding roads of Catalonia and the challenging ParcMotor Circuit in Castellolí, Audi’s RS Q8 Performance proves its mettle. Boasting 471 kW (640 PS) and 850 Nm of torque, this SUV is the ultimate blend of daily practicality and high-performance engineering. To delve deeper into the machine’s capabilities, we meet chassis developer Roland Waschkau, the mastermind behind Audi’s R8 and now the RS Q8 Performance.
As the Mediterranean sun sets over Sitges, Waschkau’s passion for the vehicle is unmistakable. “The RS Q8 performance1 perfectly combines suitability for everyday use and sporty attributes,” he declares. With air suspension tuned specifically for this model, it’s as comfortable on highways as it is on the racetrack. The RS Q8 Performance holds a Nürburgring-Nordschleife lap record of 7:36.698 minutes, a testament to its engineering excellence.
A Masterclass in Handling
Our journey begins on the mountainous roads of Montserrat. Between the rocky cliffs and sweeping curves, the RS Q8 Performance showcases its superior chassis dynamics. Equipped with Audi’s electromechanical active roll stabilization (eAWS) and all-wheel steering, the vehicle handles with precision, whether navigating tight corners or cruising through sharp bends.
Waschkau explains, “The eAWS minimizes lateral movement, improving both comfort and sportiness, depending on the driving mode.” The system’s electric motors dynamically adjust the stabilizers, significantly reducing body roll, especially in aggressive turns. Meanwhile, all-wheel steering enhances agility, making the SUV feel remarkably nimble despite its size.
Performance on the ParcMotor Circuit
From the mountains, we head to the ParcMotor Circuit, a technical track with challenging straights and inclines. The RS Q8 Performance effortlessly handles the figure-eight layout, showcasing its 3.6-second sprint from 0 to 100 km/h. While its 305 km/h top speed can’t be fully explored here, the sheer acceleration and cornering capabilities are exhilarating.
The RS ceramic brake system, coupled with the sport differential, ensures impeccable control at high speeds. Waschkau notes, “Thanks to the quattro system, drive torque is distributed perfectly between the axles, ensuring agility and neutrality through every corner.”
Power, Precision, and Sound
The twin-turbo V8 engine roars with authority, delivering an unmatched driving experience. For those seeking an even bolder presence, the optional RS sports exhaust amplifies the car’s aggressive sound, accompanied by black tailpipes for added flair.
As the day concludes at ParcMotor Castellolí, Waschkau reflects on the car’s performance: “The RS Q8 performance1 is an almost perfect compromise between everyday usability and sporty attributes.”
RS Q8 Performance Specifications:
- Power: 471 kW (640 PS)
- Torque: 850 Nm
- 0-100 km/h: 3.6 seconds
- Top Speed: 305 km/h
- Chassis: eAWS (electromechanical active roll stabilization), all-wheel steering
- Brakes: RS ceramic brake system
- Exhaust: Optional RS sports exhaust with black tailpipes
Source: Audi
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
