Audi RS Q8 now available in Malaysia – from RM1.7 million

Official Malaysian Audi importers and distributors PHS Automotive Malaysia (PHSAM) have added a new offering into its line-up, and it comes in the form of the Audi RS Q8 – the much hotter and faster RS variant of the sporty Audi Q8 SUV model. Orders for it can now be placed through all Audi Centres (Setia Alam, Glenmarie, and Juru).

Unlike the base Q8 it underpins, this RS variant has been given a full high performance treatment by Audi Sport, making it one of the fastest and most powerful super-SUVs on sale locally right now. Much of its speed and performance prowess stems from its powertrain package, which consists of a 4.0-litre bi-turbo TFSI V8 mill, 8-speed tiptronic transmission, and signature quattro permanent all-wheel-drive (AWD).

The V8 mill, which features a unique 1-3-7-2-6-5-4-8 ignition sequence, is also primed with an RS sport exhaust system, the latter finished off with black-finished oval tailpipes. This promises a rapturous soundtrack to match the 593 HP (600PS) and 800 NM outputs said mill generates. As a result, the RS Q8 does the 0-100 KM/H sprint in just 3.8 seconds whilst enroute towards a top speed of 305 KM/H.

Boosting the RS Q8’s high performance credentials further are the presence of a wheel-selective torque control module, quattro sport differential active torque-vectoring system, RS-specific adaptive air suspension with matching RS-specific damper tuning, as well as a electromechanical active roll stabilisation (EAWS) system.

On top of all that comes the Audi drive select dynamic handling system. This allows the driver to control engine and transmission management, steering boost, air suspension, all-wheel steering, engine sound and the characteristic of the automatic air conditioning. There are 8 modes available in total that includes comfort, auto, dynamic, efficiency, as well as both allroad and offroad.

The other two modes present are the individually configurable RS-specific RS1 and RS2 modes. These can be directly accessed via the “RS-MODE” button present on the steering wheel.

Elsewhere, the chassis is also brimmed as standard with massive composite brake rotors measuring 420mm up front and 370mm at the rear, both matched with ceramic calipers finished in red. These, by the way, hide behind equally massive 23-inch, 5 Y-spoke design alloy wheels primed at each corner.

Whilst on the exterior still, the RS Q8 also sports a number of RS-specific bits like its black-finished honeycomb grille and badges, body-coloured trim panels plus a roof edge spoiler. The RS Q8 also sports a pair of RS HD Matrix LED headlights that boasts Audi’s signature three-dimensional daytime running lights, and they’re matched with RS Matrix LED taillights at the rear. 

On board, the RS Q8 delivers much of the base Q8’s amenities here, albeit with a sportier presentation. The seats are upholstered in perforated Valcona leather with honeycomb stitching whilst also featuring both ventilation and massage functions. Present too are RS-specific interior elements that include grey contrasting stitching on the knee pads, steering wheel rim, floor mats, and the edges of the seat belts.

On top of all that, the cabin also sees the addition of special RS-specific performance displays in both the Audi virtual cockpit suite and head-up display. Information displayed here include things like tyre pressure, torque, output, temperature, lap times and g-forces.

Other key features present on board include comprehensive range of assist systems (adaptive cruise control, lane-change warning, intersection assist, plus 360-degree  cameras), not forgetting a rather large and practical boot space that measures up to a maximum of 1,755 litres with the rear seats folded.

As for paint, the Audi RS Q8 can be dressed in any of the nine standard colour selection available, or any of the 11 Audi Exclusive hues available for it too.

Keen on the famed four-ringed marque from Ingolstadt's take on the super-SUV genre? Well then, be prepared – it’s no bargain. PHSAM have set a base retail price of RM1,699,990 for the RS Q8. Said figure includes duties and taxes, plus Audi’s 3-year free maintenance, 5-year unlimited mileage warranty, and 5-year roadside assistance coverages.

So, what will be then, folks? This? Its cousins the Lamborghini Urus, Porsche Cayenne, or Bentley Bentayga? The Aston Martin DBX? Or would you rather wait a little for the V12-powered Ferrari Purosangue instead? Hit the comments below…