As of mid‑2025, Audi’s headlining combustion-powered model is the new 2025 RS Q8 Performance. Announced in mid‑2024, it represents the most powerful gas‑burning production vehicle in Audi’s history. Let’s dive into what makes it noteworthy—and how it fits into Audi’s broader shift toward electrification.
Power and Performance You Can Feel
At its heart lies a 4.0‑liter twin‑turbo V8, outputting 592 hp and 800 Nm (590 lb‑ft) of torque between 2,200–4,500 rpm. That’s a staggering level of performance for a luxury SUV, propelling the RS Q8 Performance to sprint from 0–60 mph in under 3.5 seconds. These engines are mated to an eight‑speed Tiptronic transmission with permanent Quattro all‑wheel drive.
The RS Q8 also boasts adaptive air suspension (capable of lowering ride height by 90 mm), and electromechanical active roll stabilization, keeping body roll in check on dynamic corners.
The Bigger Audi Strategy: Hybrid & Electric Evolution
While the RS Q8 Performance may steal headlines with its raw mechanical power, Audi’s broader 2025 strategy is clearly pivoting toward electrified platforms.
A6 e‑tron — All‑Electric Executive Luxury
The Audi A6 e‑tron, introduced at the end of July 2024, is Audi’s fully electric executive sedan and Avant/wagon. Built on the new PPE electric platform, it’s available with up to 100 kWh battery, dual‑motor AWD configurations, and offers ranges between 598–750 km WLTP. Pre‑orders began in September 2024, with first deliveries expected by February 2025.
It also earned a full five‑star NCAP safety rating in early 2025.
Q6 e‑tron — Competing in the Premium EV SUV Space
In addition to the A6 e‑tron, Audi has launched the Q6 e‑tron (model year 2025), a compact luxury electric SUV built on the PPE platform and set up to replace the Q5 over time. Production began in late 2023, and it’s already entering global markets—including India—by mid‑2025.
A5, Q5, A6: The New Combustion Generation
Audi’s third-generation A5 (B10) line—serving as replacement for both A4/A5—is built on the new Premium Platform Combustion (PPC). It officially premiered in July 2024, with deliveries in Europe by November 2024 and coming to India by mid‑2025.
This new PPC platform supports mild hybrid tech, 48‑volt systems, enhanced infotainment, and upgraded safety aids. Specs include engine outputs from 230 hp to around 280 hp, with fuel‑efficiency improvements of ~15%.
Meanwhile, the third‑generation Q5 was unveiled in September 2024 and is slated to arrive in India around June–August 2025, priced approximately ₹70 lakh (ex‑showroom).
Comparing Highlights: RS Q8 vs Next‑Gen A6 e‑tron & A5/Q5 PPC
| Model | Powertrain | Key Innovation | Launch Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| RS Q8 Performance | 4.0L twin‑turbo V8 | Audi’s most powerful combustion engine | Launched mid‑2024 (2025 MY) |
| A6 e‑tron | Dual‑motor electric, PPE | ~700 km range, fast DC charging, Avant option | Revealed July 2024, deliveries early 2025 |
| A5 (B10) | Mild‑hybrid gasoline, PPC | New PPC for ICE models, 48 V hybrid, advanced safety & UI | Reveal July 2024, India mid‑2025 |
| Q5 (3rd‑gen) | Mild‑hybrid petrol/diesel | Modern SUV design with mild hybrid tech | Unveiled Sept 2024, India mid‑2025 |
Why the RS Q8 Performance Still Matters
- Raw Enthusiasm: For traditional performance car fans, the RS Q8 Performance is a statement—loud, fast, visceral.
- Flagship Powertrain: Audi has not offered anything this potent in a production SUV before, making it a rare combination of luxury and brute force.
- Transition Vehicle: As Audi intensifies its move to electric vehicles, the RS Q8 may well be one of the last high-end combustion models before a full shift to electrified performance—making it a collector-worthy entry.
Looking Ahead: What Next for Audi?
Audi plans further innovation in late 2025 and beyond. Notably, CEO Gernot Döllner has confirmed an upcoming TT Moment 2.0 electric sports car concept due in September 2025—the spiritual successor to the iconic TT, and aimed at reviving Audi’s emotional design language in an EV form. Production is expected to begin within two years.
Meanwhile, combustion-based models such as the A1 and Q2 are scheduled for discontinuation in 2026, to be replaced by entry-level electric vehicles below the Q4 e‑tron.
Final Thoughts
For 2025, the Audi RS Q8 Performance stands out as the pinnacle of internal combustion prowess—boasting supercar‑level acceleration and top-tier SUV capability. Yet it arrives at a pivotal moment as Audi transitions toward electrification. Next-gen platforms like PPC and PPE underpin models such as the A5, Q5, A6 e‑tron, and Q6 e‑tron, signaling Audi’s growing focus on hybrid and electric mobility.
In short, the RS Q8 Performance is not just a car—it’s a bridge between Audi’s past engines and its electrified future.
Sources Highlighted
- RS Q8 Performance specs and timeline
- Audi’s electric‑vehicle introductions: A6 e‑tron, Q6 e‑tron
- Launch and tech details of A5 (B10) PPC and 3rd‑gen Q5
- Upcoming Audi strategy including TT Moment 2.0 and EV shift
Leave a Comment