Yahoo Autos 2020 Audi RS Q8 What We Know So Far
Overview
Audi is going after the AMGs and BMW Ms of the world with the new RS version of its Q8 mid-size SUV. The 2020 Audi RS Q8 comes standard with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 engine making 591 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, with standard Quattro all-wheel drive to put all that power to the ground and an upgraded suspension and brakes to ensure it handles and stops as well as it goes. It looks a lot more aggressive than the standard Q8, too, thanks to 22-inch wheels, a wider body, and a rear spoiler. It will go on sale in the U.S. sometime in 2020.
What's New for 2020?
The RS Q8 is a new addition to the Q8 lineup for 2020.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
RS Q8: $120,000 (est.)
Audi hasn't announced U.S. pricing for the RS Q8, but we expect it will start well above six figures. Its performance, styling, and feature content is likely to be worth the investment.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The RS Q8 has a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 engine that produces 591 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with a Quattro all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed automatic, and there's also a 48-volt hybrid system to improve fuel efficiency. Audi claims a zero to 62 mph time of 3.8 seconds and a top speed of 189 mph. We're looking forward to testing this claim at our test track when the RS Q8 becomes available. In November, Audi set a record at the Nürburgring race course with a camouflaged prototype of the RS Q8.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
EPA fuel-economy estimates for the RS Q8 are not available, but considering its performance potential, our expectations for decent fuel economy are tempered.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The RS Q8's five-seat cabin is mostly the same as the Q8's, although it has some special trim pieces and sportier, more aggressively bolstered front seats to hold you in place while cornering. There are also RS logos sprinkled throughout. We expect passenger and cargo space to carry over unchanged from the regular Q8 model, which means plenty of legroom and headroom for adults in both rows of seats. In our testing, the Q8 held eight carry-on suitcases behind its rear seat and 23 in total with the rear seat folded.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Audi Virtual Cockpit digital gauge cluster and dual-touchscreen MMI interface have certain RS-specific displays that can show information such as torque and power output, lap times, and g-forces. Other than that, we expect the same technology offered in the Q8, including standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, navigation, and SiriusXM satellite radio.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Neither the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) nor the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) have performed crash tests on the RS Q8, but the regular Q8 fared well in both agency's testing. Audi has not detailed which driver-assistance systems will be standard or optional, but we do know that the RS Q8 will offer adaptive cruise control. Key safety features include:
Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Audi offers an average standard warranty that, when compared with other premium brands, looks pretty basic. Jaguar offers more value here, with longer warranties and five years of complimentary scheduled maintenance.
Limited warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
Powertrain warranty covers 4 years or 50,000 miles
Complimentary scheduled maintenance is covered for 1 year or 10,000 miles
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