Hey guys, welcome to our first drive experience on Audi’s facelifted 2025 RSQ8. Today, we’ll focus on the RSQ8 Performance, a new model for 2025. The base RSQ8 starts at £120,000 in the UK, while the RSQ8 Performance begins at £135,500.
What’s New in 2025 Audi RSQ8?
The facelift introduces three new colors, including this stunning Chili Red. The front end has been fully restyled, featuring a new honeycomb grille, updated Audi rings, and advanced matrix laser lights offering five daytime running light options.
Moving to the sides, you’ll notice the 23-inch wheels shared with the RS6 and RS7 Performance. These wheels save 5 kg of unsprung weight per corner, enhancing performance.
At the rear, the car boasts new OLED taillights and a sports exhaust system, which delivers an epic soundtrack. Standard features include Audi’s adaptive air suspension (tweaked for the performance model), rear-axle steering, and carbon ceramic brakes.
Enhanced Interior and Powertrain
Inside, Audi has removed sound-deadening materials to:
- Enhance the exhaust sound from the V8.
- Reduce weight.
Beneath the Chili Red bonnet lies a 4.0L twin-turbo V8, producing 640 horsepower—Audi’s most powerful combustion-only engine to date. This engine delivers 850 Nm of torque, available from just 2,300 RPM.
Thanks to its power and weight-saving measures, Audi claims the RSQ8 Performance accelerates from 0-62 mph in 3.6 seconds and has a top speed of 189 mph.
Interior Design and Features
The interior largely retains its design, with Alcantara headlining, door cards, and steering wheel adding a sportier touch. The Virtual Cockpit features updated graphics, including a circular display for the rev counter and speed—an effective and simple design.
However, the sport seats plus are a weak point. While visually appealing, they don’t fit all body types comfortably. During Nürburgring testing, Audi used bucket seats for better support, highlighting this shortcoming.
Track-Ready Performance
The RSQ8 Performance recently set a lap record at the Nürburgring for SUVs with a time of 7:36.9. This model handles exceptionally well, even on challenging circuits, thanks to its improved chassis, suspension tuning, and torque delivery.
On-Road Dynamics
On the road, the RSQ8 Performance maintains its reputation as a comfortable daily driver and luxury family SUV. Despite its enhancements, the ride quality remains impeccable, outperforming rivals like the Lamborghini Urus and BMW X5M Competition. It effortlessly balances comfort and performance, making it ideal for both spirited drives and long road trips.
Testing Acceleration and Circuit Performance
Audi claims a 3.6-second 0-62 mph time, but during my test, it achieved an incredible 3.27 seconds. On the circuit, the RSQ8 Performance defied expectations, delivering precise handling, immense grip, and a raw, exhilarating exhaust note. Even with all aids off, the car managed its weight effectively, showcasing Audi’s engineering prowess.
A Super SUV with Versatility
Not only is the RSQ8 Performance a beast on the road and track, but it’s also capable off-road. With adjustable air suspension and the potential for all-terrain tires, it proves to be a versatile vehicle for any condition.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 RSQ8 Performance is a dedication to Audi’s ability to create a well-rounded super SUV. It’s fast, comfortable, practical, and versatile, ticking all the boxes for a luxury performance vehicle.
This car has genuinely impressed me, and as someone who typically prefers sedans or estates, the RSQ8 Performance has me reconsidering SUVs altogether.
I hope you enjoyed this review! If you did, please give it a thumbs up, leave your comments and questions below, and consider subscribing. Before I head back to the hotel, I’ll enjoy one more drive on this stunning piece of tarmac.
