There are vehicles that simply resonate with you from the moment you experience them. The 2023 Audi Rs Q8 is one of those rare machines. Spending a week behind the wheel, it became clear that this high-performance SUV isn’t just another luxury vehicle; it’s a meticulously crafted all-rounder that seamlessly blends exhilarating power with everyday practicality. If budget were no object, the RS Q8 would be an immediate choice. With a starting price north of $140,000, it’s a significant investment, but one that delivers an unparalleled driving experience.
The RS Q8 sits at the pinnacle of Audi’s crossover lineup, sharing the Volkswagen Group’s MLB Evo platform with esteemed siblings like the Audi Q7, Bentley Bentayga, and Lamborghini Urus. Stepping up from the standard Q8 to the ferocious RS variant unlocks a realm of performance enhancements, making the RS Q8 a compelling alternative to the Lamborghini Urus for those seeking similar thrills at a (relatively) more accessible price point. However, perhaps a more apt comparison is to the Audi RS6 Avant – imagine the iconic performance wagon, but with added SUV versatility and towing capability. In essence, the 2023 Audi RS Q8 feels like an RS6 Avant that can confidently haul a trailer.
Alt text: Close-up view of the powerful twin-turbo V8 engine under the hood of the 2023 Audi RS Q8, showcasing its performance pedigree.
The heart of the RS Q8, much like the RS6 Avant, is Audi’s formidable 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine. This powerhouse churns out an impressive 591 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. This represents a substantial 91 horsepower leap over the SQ8, transforming the vehicle from simply quick to genuinely breathtakingly fast. Power is efficiently managed through an eight-speed automatic transmission and Audi’s signature Quattro all-wheel-drive system, ensuring optimal grip and control in all conditions.
Complementing the potent engine is a sophisticated chassis featuring four-corner air suspension with adaptive dampers as standard equipment. Rear-wheel steering and Audi’s sport limited-slip rear differential further enhance agility. This engineering synergy allows the sizable SUV to handle with surprising nimbleness, feeling far more compact and responsive than its dimensions might suggest. While it never quite masks its weight entirely, the RS Q8 can confidently tackle winding roads with remarkable composure and speed.
Alt text: Dynamic rear three-quarter view of the Dragon Orange 2023 Audi RS Q8, highlighting its sporty stance and Black Optics package details.
The test vehicle, finished in eye-catching Dragon Orange and equipped with the Black Optics package, arrived with a practical wheel and tire setup. While the Black Optics package typically includes imposing 23-inch black wheels with summer tires, unsuitable for colder climates, Audi thoughtfully swapped them for silver 22-inch wheels wrapped in Hankook snow tires. This proved to be a wise choice as the RS Q8 was put to the winter test during a trip in search of snow. A journey to Pennsylvania and Whitetail Resort revealed snow-covered landscapes perfect for exploring the vehicle’s capabilities.
In a snowy parking lot, the RS Q8 effortlessly demonstrated its playful side, executing donuts with ease and a thrilling engine note. An aprés ski adventure extended to a snow-covered fire road, allowing for further evaluation of the air suspension at maximum ride height and the Quattro system’s prowess in challenging conditions. The RS Q8 confidently conquered every obstacle encountered, proving its capability extends beyond paved roads, even if it’s not designed for extreme off-roading. It’s more than capable for adventurous weekend excursions.
Alt text: Front angle of the vibrant Dragon Orange 2023 Audi RS Q8, showcasing its aggressive front fascia and distinctive Audi design elements.
Returning to dry, twisty roads allowed for a better assessment of the RS Q8’s on-pavement dynamics. While the higher center of gravity is noticeable compared to the lower-slung RS6 Avant, impacting ultimate cornering sharpness, the difference is within acceptable limits for an SUV. The snow tires naturally introduced a degree of “squishiness” compared to summer performance tires, making a definitive judgment on handling limits difficult. Nevertheless, steering feel remained commendably communicative, and body control was well-maintained through both tight and sweeping corners.
The 2023 Audi RS Q8 distinguishes itself through a combination of factors. The cabin ergonomics are exceptional, feeling custom-tailored even for taller drivers. The driving position is perfectly judged, and visibility is excellent thanks to the low dashboard design, which minimizes obstruction from the array of screens – although the lower climate control screen remains a slightly cumbersome Audi design choice. The optional Bang & Olufsen sound system elevates the in-cabin experience to another level of luxury.
Alt text: Luxurious interior of the 2023 Audi RS Q8, highlighting the sporty seats, premium materials, and driver-focused cockpit design.
Alt text: Detailed view of the dual-screen infotainment system in the 2023 Audi RS Q8, showing the upper infotainment display and the lower climate control screen.
The twin-turbo V8 and its valved exhaust system contribute significantly to the RS Q8’s appeal, delivering a thrilling soundtrack and a sense of occasion. It sounds fantastic, performs admirably, and crucially, unlike the coveted RS6 Avant, boasts a substantial towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds, according to Audi. This towing capability adds a layer of practicality, suggesting the RS Q8 could serve as both a weekend racecar tow vehicle and a daily driver with ample entertainment value. While towing wasn’t tested during this particular review due to weather, it remains a feature to be explored in future evaluations.
Despite its classification as a “coupe crossover,” a body style often criticized for compromising practicality, the RS Q8 presents a surprisingly handsome aesthetic. The striking Dragon Orange paint further amplifies its visual appeal and sense of exclusivity. It’s a vehicle that embraces a degree of playful extravagance while maintaining the refined and capable character typical of German automotive engineering. While the RS6 Avant holds undeniable appeal, the 2023 Audi RS Q8 emerges as the more versatile and ultimately more personally compelling choice, blending supercar performance with SUV functionality in a truly desirable package.
