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The Audi RS Q8 is a fascinating addition to Audi’s lineup, standing out as one of the few models that truly embodies the spirit of the RS badge. It’s a car that combines raw power, cutting-edge technology, and practicality in a way that few performance SUVs can match on paper, anyway. In a city like Mumbai, where roads are far from perfect, a high-performance SUV like the RS Q8 feels like the perfect solution, because it offers the thrill of a sports car without compromising on the practicality and comfort needed to navigate a variety of craters and potholes.

The RS Q8 holds the distinction of being the fastest SUV to lap the Nürburgring Nordschleife. This is no small feat, considering the competition in the performance SUV segment. Brands like Porsche, Lamborghini, and BMW have all thrown their hats into the ring, but the RS Q8 managed to outpace them all. This achievement speaks volumes about its handling, stability, and sheer power, especially on smooth, well-paved roads like those found on European autobahns.

However, when it comes to Mumbai’s roads, the RS Q8’s stiff suspension — designed to deliver razor-sharp handling — can feel a bit unforgiving. The car’s performance-oriented setup, while brilliant on smooth surfaces, can make it feel slightly jarring on uneven, pothole-ridden roads. That said, this is a compromise that enthusiasts are likely willing to accept, since the RS Q8 is not just about comfort; it’s about delivering an exhilarating driving experience. And in that regard, it excels.

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The true star is the engine, of course. Under the hood lies a monstrous 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 that churns out a staggering 632 bhp and 86.67 kgm of torque. This engine is a masterpiece, delivering power in a way that feels both brutal and refined. Launching the RS Q8 from a standstill is an experience in itself. The car rockets from 0 to 100 kph in a claimed 3.6 seconds, and after multiple test runs, I can confidently say that it lives up to this figure. The acceleration is relentless, pinning you to your seat as the V8 absolutely thunders to life.

The engine’s soundtrack is another highlight. On the newly inaugurated coastal road in Mumbai, I had the chance to experience the RS Q8 in its element. As we entered the tunnel sections, the V8’s exhaust note ricocheted off the walls, creating a symphony that I’ll never forget. It’s a sound that begs you to roll down the windows and accelerate as hard as you can. The RS Q8 has a claimed top speed of an impressive 305 kph, but let’s be honest — those are just numbers. What truly matters is how the car feels, and the RS Q8 feels every bit as aggressive and thrilling as its specs suggest.

This thing’s handling is exceptional, especially on smooth roads. The Quattro all-wheel-drive system provides immense grip, inspiring confidence when taking corners at higher speeds than you’d normally attempt in an SUV. The car feels planted and composed, making it easy to forget that you’re driving a vehicle of this size. The steering is precise, and the brakes — equipped with massive RS composite discs — offer incredible stopping power, which is essential given the car’s weight and performance capabilities.

However, the ride quality can be a bit harsh on rough roads. The stiff suspension, while great for handling, can make the car feel jumpy over bumps and potholes. That said, the RS Q8 is still surprisingly comfortable for a performance-oriented SUV. In traffic-heavy Mumbai, the car feels manageable and composed, with a cabin that isolates you from the chaos outside. The parking sensors do go off frequently in narrow streets, reminding you of the car’s size, but it’s nothing that can’t be handled with a bit of caution.

The SUV’s design is a masterclass in understated aggression. At first glance, it looks similar to the regular Q8, but closer inspection reveals a host of subtle yet impactful changes. The front fascia features Audi’s new 2D logo and a honeycomb grille with prominent ADAS sensor units flanking the Audi badge. The sharp creases along the belt line and the bold rear design give the car a muscular stance, while the LED light bar at the back adds a modern touch.

The profile is equally striking, with the RS Q8 sitting on massive 23-inch alloy wheels wrapped in low-profile rubber. The black styling accents, now a standard feature, give the car a sleek, understated look that sets it apart from the chrome-heavy designs of its competitors. The design is muscular and subtle at the same time, making it a head-turner without being overly flashy.

Step inside and you’re greeted by a cabin that’s luxurious and tech-forward. Audi has stayed true to its ethos, using digital interfaces with physical controls in a way that feels intuitive and user-friendly. The centrepiece of the dashboard is the 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, paired with a 12.3-inch digital cockpit for the driver. The climate control unit is also haptic touch-based, but Audi has thoughtfully included physical buttons for key functions like the audio system and cameras.

The materials used throughout the cabin are top-notch, with premium leather, Alcantara, and carbon fibre accents adding to the sense of luxury. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives a breeze. Despite the car’s performance focus, the RS Q8 doesn’t skimp on comfort or practicality. There’s ample space for passengers, and the boot is large enough to accommodate luggage for a weekend getaway.

One of the standout features of the interior is the 17-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, which pumps out 730 watts of crystal-clear audio. While it might feel like a crime to listen to music when you have a V8 engine roaring upfront, the sound system is a welcome addition for those moments when you want to relax and unwind.

The Audi RS Q8 is a car that’s hard to sum up in a few words. On the one hand, it’s a performance powerhouse, thanks to its twin-turbo V8 engine and record-breaking capabilities. On the other, it’s a practical and luxurious SUV that’s perfectly suited for everyday use. It’s a car that appeals to those who want to Á y under the radar, but still have the ability to dominate the road when the need arises.

Priced at Rs. 2.49 crore (ex-showroom), the RS Q8 is not cheap, but it’s a bargain when you consider what it offers. Compared to its siblings in the Volkswagen Group, such as the Lamborghini Urus, it delivers similar performance at a significantly lower price point. It’s a car that proves Audi is still a force to be reckoned with in the performance SUV segment.

In a market where SUVs are increasingly becoming the vehicle of choice, the RS Q8 stands out as a car that combines the best of both worlds, and if you’re in the market for a high-performance SUV that doesn’t compromise on luxury or everyday usability, it should be at the top of your list.