Audi is preparing an RS Q5 for the Swiss expo, and now reports
indicate that it's gearing up to showcase an RS Q8 concept as well.
Based closely on the Q8 hybrid concept revealed in Detroit last month, the RS Q8 will adopt a
performance orientation that would closely preview a production version to
follow. Currently the RS Q3 is the only crossover in Ingolstadt's lineup to
have received the full performance treatment from Audi Sport.
Powering the big crossover coupe is anticipated to
be a version of the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 that currently powers the S8 Plus performance sedan and Bentley Continental.
In the S8 Plus, that engine already kicks out 605
horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque to all four wheels through an
eight-speed automatic transmission.
Those cross-town rivals are rated for 0-100 km/h of
4.3 and 4.2 seconds, respectively, and top out at 278 km/h. Citing
unnamed sources within Audi Sport, Autocar projects that the RS Q8 would also
hit 100 in under five seconds, but top out at over 300 km/h – perfect for
crunching the Autobahn at a blinding pace.
Expect visual enhancements to further differentiate
the performance version from the hybrid version we've already seen when the
Four-Ring brand lifts the veil on the floor of the Geneva Palexpo mere weeks
from now.
