Audi RS Q8 Concept Release Date, Specs News: High-Performance SUV Slated to Debut at Geneva Motor Show
Despite having just unveiled the Q8 concept at the Detroit Auto Show last month, Audi's performance car division, Sport GmbH, is reportedly introducing a high-performance version of the concept sports utility vehicle (SUV) at the 87th Geneva International Motor Show this March.
According to AutoCar, the RS Q8 concept will feature distinct exterior and interior design elements that will differentiate it from the Q8 concept. To match a sportier powertrain and lowered suspension, the five-door SUV will have a more aggressive design language and a wider stance.
It is said to be equipped with Audi Sport's interpretation of the Singleframe honeycomb grille alongside trapezoidal headlamps with LED daytime running lights, a more prominent splitter, a lower sloping roofline, angled taillights and a more athletic silhouette. Inside, the RS Q8 concept's cabin will have Audi Sport steering wheel, seats and trims.
Sources from Audi Sport's headquarters also told the publication that the RS Q8 concept will use a more conventional direct-injected petrol engine compared to the hybrid powertrain of the Q8 concept.
The high-performance SUV will potentially use the German automobile manufacturer's 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine with an eight-speed torque-converter-equipped automatic gearbox and Quattro four-wheel drive system. Like the Audi S8 Plus, the RS Q8 concept could deliver 605 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. It was also hinted that the forthcoming vehicle could go from 0 to 62 miles per hour (mph) in under five seconds and attain a top speed beyond 186 mph.
The Audi RS Q8 concept could arrive in the market sometime in 2019 or 2020 and once released, it is expected to rival the 567-horsepower BMW X6 and the 549-horsepower Mercedes-AMG GLE63, which are able to go from standstill to 62 mph in 4.2 and 4.3 seconds, respectively. Both vehicles also claim a top speed of 174 mph.
There's no official confirmation from Audi yet so be sure to check out the Geneva Motor Show, scheduled from March 9 to 19, to see if these touted design elements and performance components are indeed featured in the RS Q8 concept.
