Audi RSQ8 Launched In India, Rivals The Lamborghini Urus
Audi has launched the new RSQ8 Performance in India, priced at Rs. 2.49 crores (ex-showroom). This new performance SUV caters to the few who wish to drive a vehicle that combines the acceleration of a supercar and the versatility of an estate or hatchback. The RSQ8 is based on the Lamborghini Urus and offers similar performance for a lot less money. Let’s take a look at Audi’s Halo SUV.
Changes For 2025
The 2025 RSQ8 is available in only one trim: Audi RSQ8 Performance. Previously, you also had the option of buying a standard RSQ8 model where the engine was tuned to a lower state, producing 590 HP. This Performance variant also comes with a mechanical centre differential, a tuned and optimised exhaust system, and a suspension setup that utilises the electric motors to stabilise the vehicle in the twisties.
Styling
The Audi RSQ8 Performance has been redesigned for the 2025 model year. The changes are subtle and effective. The grille features a mesh design and has a honeycomb design that gets a 3D effect. The Matrix LED Headlights adopt a sleeker design with five available LED signatures to choose from. There are various components finished in matte grey as standard, which can be painted in optional gloss carbon or black.
Interior
On the inside, the RSQ8 gets a red or grey RS Design package. The colour chosen will be used as a contrasting shade over a black leather interior. The contrast stitching can be observed on the centre console, floor mats, seat and seatbelts. The RSQ8 gets suede upholstery on the steering wheel, shifter, and the sides of the centre console. This can be extended to cover more surfaces as an option.
Features
The RSQ8 Performance gets a 12.3-inch Audi Virtual Cockpit with an exclusive shift light indicator. The MMI Interface includes all features such as Wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto, Wi-Fi connectivity, 4G Hotspot, etc., as seen on the standard Q8 model. It adds RS-specific menus to signify the car’s performance nature. It can display information such as active G-Forces, Lap Times, and Active Power and torque Output.
Engine
The Audi RSQ8 is powered by a 4.0-litre Twin Turbo V8 that produces 640 HP at 6000 RPM and 850 Nm of torque at 2300 RPM. It sends power to all four wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission. It does 0-100 km/hr in a blistering 3.6 seconds! The RSQ8 will produce an additional 40 HP compared to the outgoing model. The Nurburgring time of 7 Minutes 36.698 seconds makes it the quickest SUV around the green hell.
Market Positioning
The RSQ8 Performance offers unrivalled performance with everyday usability. In terms of pricing, it is available at Rs. 2.49 Crore (ex-showroom). This makes it significantly cheaper than its Italian counterpart, Lamborghini Urus. Additionally, it will compete with Mercedes GLE 63 S and Porsche Cayenne Turbo and offer a reasonable value composition for its sector.
Outlook
The Audi RSQ8 Performance is an SUV suited for buyers who want the Lamborghini Urus without the attention. Not to mention, the buyers will save a pretty rupee whilst choosing the German option over the Italian. The RSQ8 gets a refresh that makes it sleeker and less drastic than before, which helps it model positioning better than before.
