Audi has revealed the new RSQ8 which will act as the brand’s flagship SUV.
Power comes from a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine with mild-hybrid technology that produces 441kW of power and 800Nm of torque. It’s the same unit found in the new RS6 Avant and RS7.
An eight-speed automatic transmission sends the power to the quattro all-wheel drive system that can distribute up to 70 per cent of torque to the front wheels and 85 per cent to the rear wheels.
Audi claims the RSQ8 can sprint from 0-100km/h in 3.8 seconds, and to 200km/h in 13.7 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h, rising to 305km/h with the optional Dynamic Package.
Underneath, the five-link construction at the front and rear axles handle longitudinal and lateral forces separately. The linkages and the subframes are made largely of aluminium.
The standard RS-specific adaptive air suspension sport with controlled damping can be raised by up to 90 millimetres depending on drive mode.
Electromechanical active roll stabilisation is also available which uses a compact electric motor between the two halves of the stabiliser on each axle. According to Audi, “when driving straight ahead, they largely act independently of each other, which reduces sprung mass vibrations on uneven roads.”
All-wheel steering is standard, meaning at low speeds, the rear wheels turn up to 5 degrees opposite the direction of the front wheels for greater agility. At high speeds, they turn up to 1.5 degrees in the same direction as the front wheels to improve stability during fast lane changes.
The RSQ8 rides on 22-inch alloy wheels shod in 295/40 tyres. Behind the rims is an RS brake system with 420mm discs up front, and 370mm discs at the rear. The 10-inch piston calipers are painted black as standard but are available in red as an option.
Style-wise, the RSQ8 is differentiated by an RS-specific radiator grille, slightly wider wheel arches, a roof-edge spoiler, and an RS-specific rear skirt with a diffuser clip in high gloss black with oval tailpipes.
On the inside, Audi’s virtual cockpit and the latest MMI infotainment system is included as standard, as are sports seats trimmed in Valcona leather.
Audi promises over 30 safety assist systems will be offered on the RSQ8 including adaptive cruise assist, intersection assist and lane change warning.
Locally, the RSQ8 is expected to arrive in Australia during the third quarter of 2020 with pricing and local specifications to be announced closer to launch. Stay tuned!
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