Audi RS Q8 2020 detailed: Large SUV gains RS6 Avant's V8 powerplant

Audi has ripped the covers of its flagship RS Q8 SUV at this year’s Los Angeles motor show, armed with a stonking 441kW/800Nm twin-turbo petrol V8.

Due to hit Australian showrooms in the third quarter next year, the RS Q8 large SUV will wear a pricetag north of the standard 55 TFSI’s $128,542 before on-road costs figure, though the Audi’s local division is keeping the number under wraps for now.

With drive sent to the road via Audi’s signature quattro all-wheel-drive system, the RS Q8 can accelerate from zero to 100km/h in just 3.8 seconds – faster than the just-shown Mercedes-AMG GLS 63’s 4.2s time.

Top speed is an electronically limited 250km/h.

An RS-specific exhaust system is fitted with signature oval outlets.

However, the potent V8 engine is also paired to a 48-volt mild-hybrid system (MHEV), with a belt alternator-starter connected to the crankshaft, that lowers fuel consumption by as much as 0.8 litres per 100km, according to Audi.

Cylinder deactivation is also included in the RS Q8, while the start-stop system uses the forward-facing camera to turn over the engine once traffic starts to move, even if the brake pedal is still pressed.

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Following the RS Q3, the five-seat-only RS Q8 is only the second full-fat Audi Sport SUV, and wears an octagonal Singleframe front grille, sports bodykit and gloss-black exterior highlights to differentiate itself.

An RS-specific exhaust system is also fitted with signature oval outlets, which drivers can adjust via Audi’s drive select software.

Inside, is Audi’s all-digital virtual cockpit instrumentation and dual-touchscreen multimedia system.

The drive select can also adjust the adaptive air suspension system, while buyers can also opt for an electromechanical active roll stabilisation technology that will minimise body roll in hard cornering.

Drive modes on offer include comfort, auto, dynamic, efficiency, all-road, off-road, and customisable RS1 and RS2 settings, which adjust engine, transmission, steering and air-conditioning settings in addition to the aforementioned exhaust and suspension changes.

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Other standard kit on the RS Q8, at least in overseas markets, includes all-wheel steering, 22-inch wheels, roof spoiler and LED Matrix headlights.

Inside, occupants are treated to Audi’s all-digital virtual cockpit instrumentation, head-up display, leather sports seats with cooling and massaging functions, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifter, and dual-touchscreen multimedia system.