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Audi RS Q8 RS Q8 TFSI Quattro Tiptronic Review

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There’s no such thing as a badly equipped RS Q8, with even this ‘entry-level’ model getting 20in alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, heated front sports seats, ambient interior lighting, a 12.3in digital instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring, rear seats that slide and recline, and keyless entry.

With 592bhp and 590lb ft of torque, the RSQ8 can blast from 0-62mph in 3.8sec and delivers immense overtaking power. You get a growling V8 soundtrack and a wonderfully bassy exhaust note, too, but fuel economy isn't a strong point, even when you drive gently.


RS Q8 TFSI Quattro

Audi is a brand that sets the standard for interior quality, and this, combined with its vast and ever-growing model line-up, has helped it become one of the ‘big three’ German prestige car makers, along with BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

The A3 hatchback, A4 executive saloon and Q7 SUV have all won their classes at the What Car? Car of the Year Awards in recent years, while the TT coupé is the most decorated car in the history of the ceremony.

At least some of Audi's success over the past 30 years can be attributed to the growth in sales of vehicles with four-wheel drive; the company arguably led the way in bringing 4x4 technology into the mainstream, with its Quattro coupé in the early 1980s.

Today, most Audis are available with at least the option of four-wheel drive, while the list of SUVs from the brand includes the Q2, Q3, Q5 and Q7.

AUDI

RS Q8

There’s no such thing as a badly equipped RS Q3, with even this ‘entry-level’ model getting dual-zone climate control, heated front sports seats, ambient lighting, a 12.3in digital instrument cluster, a 10.1in infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, 20in alloy wheels, a rear bench that slides and reclines, and keyless entry as standard. 

RS Q3

RS Q8 TFSI Quattro 5dr Tiptronic

rs-q8-tfsi-quattro-5dr-tiptronic

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) including ABS, ASR and EDL

Driver and front passenger, front side and curtain airbags

Audi smartphone interface includes wireless Apple carplay/Android Auto

Electrically folding auto dimming/adjustable/heated door mirrors with memory function, LED side indicators and kerb view function for passenger side

Audi HD Matrix LED headlights in RS specific design with dynamic front and rear indicators

Audi parking system plus includes 360 degree display with front and rear sensors

Multi-coloured extended LED interior lighting pack - RS Q8

Audi RS Q8

The Audi RS Q8 is an outrageously fast sports SUV that corners with composure, mostly rides well and betters its rivals for practicality. Just bear in mind that the Porsche Cayenne Turbo Coupé is a bit more fun.


<h2>What we're looking for:</h2><ul><li>Strong performance</li> <li>Precise, feelsome steering</li> <li>Agile, entertaining handling</li> <li>Reasonable ride comfort</li> <li>Smart and practical interior</li></ul>

Needing a&nbsp;practical load-lugger doesn't mean you need to scrimp on power and sporting prowess. In fact, most sporty manufacturers now have dedicated sports SUVs in their line-up with 0-62mph times to rival cars half their size.&nbsp;

Porsche, for example, offers two:&nbsp;the Macan and the Cayenne, both of which offer rapid performance and seriously impressive handling, as well as providing enough space for five people and a boot capable of fitting more than seven carry-on suitcases.&nbsp;

But even&nbsp;manufacturers not usually focused on track times are getting involved in this market. The Volkswagen T-Roc R is one of our favourites, too, with a 0-62mph time of 4.8sec&nbsp;and&nbsp;fuel economy of 31.5mpg. A sports SUV&nbsp;should satisfy anyone who doesn't want to trade speed for space.&nbsp;

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Audi RS Q8 RS Q8 TFSI Quattro Tiptronic Review

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