2021 Audi RS Q8





Total MSRP | $115,595 |
---|---|
Edmunds suggests you pay | $114,138 |
2021 Audi RS Q8 Review

- Turbo V8 delivers devastating straight-line performance
- Nimble, lively handling puts most sports cars to shame
- Comfortable, well-trimmed interior
- Infotainment system can be distracting to use
- Limited interior storage
- Less practical than the related Q7
- The RS Q8 is unchanged for 2021
- Part of the first RS Q8 generation introduced for 2020
Audi has given the people what they want. Or perhaps just a vocal handful of them. But that small club clamoring for a penultimate family hauler from the brand of four rings gets its wish with the 2021 Audi RS Q8.
Debuting nearly two years ago, shortly after the debut of the slightly less bonkers SQ8, the RS version (RennSport in Audi circles) leaves little on the table when judged against its ultra-high-performance rivals from Mercedes, BMW and Porsche. A turbocharged V8 engine puts out just shy of 600 horsepower, an adaptive air suspension with anti-body roll feature ensures sticky yet comfortable handling, and the cabin accommodates five passengers and about 60 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. The RS Q8 also has a top speed of 190 mph. Because why not?
The monstrous V8 is also pleasingly refined. It comes with a 48-volt mild hybrid system that helps reduce fuel consumption. A trifling concern maybe, but the system also aids more seamless engine startup when pulling away from a stop. And while the RS Q8's coupe-style shape limits it to two rows, the second row offers seats that slide, recline, and split and fold in a 40/20/40 configuration for maximum versatility and comfort.
The RS Q8 technically arrived as a 2020 model, so it carries into this year unchanged. And that's fine for now. With prodigious performance and eye-catching style, the RS Q8 is a formidable entry into a growing group of riotous grocery-getters.
Which RS Q8 does Edmunds recommend?
Audi RS Q8 models
The 2021 Audi RS Q8 comes in a single well-equipped trim level with a handful of option packages. It's powered by a turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 (591 horsepower, 590 lb-ft of torque) paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
Highlights of the RS Q8's standard features include:
- 22-inch alloy wheels
- High-performance brakes
- Sport-tuned adaptive air suspension (enhances handling and ride comfort and can adjust the vehicle's ride height)
- Four-wheel steering (enhances the RS Q8's maneuverability and agility)
- Power liftgate
- Panoramic sunroof
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- Multicolor ambient cabin lighting
- Heated side mirrors
- Four-zone automatic climate control
- Leather upholstery
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Power-adjustable, heated steering wheel
The RS Q8's technology features include:
- Navigation system
- 10.1-inch central touchscreen display
- Premium Bang & Olufsen sound system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
- Wireless device charger
- Digital instrument panel
Finally, the RS Q8 comes with these safety and driver assistance features:
- Surround-view camera system (gives you a top-down view of the RS Q8 and its surroundings for tight parking situations)
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Forward and rearward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
- Blind-spot monitor (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)
- Rear cross-traffic alert (warns you if a vehicle behind you is about to cross your vehicle's path while you're in reverse)
- Rear passenger safe-exit system (can prevent a rear passenger from opening a door into traffic approaching from behind)
The RS Q8 offers several option packages, ranging from additional tech and driver assistance features to cosmetic and performance upgrades. These include:
- Black Optic package
- 23-inch alloy wheels
- High-performance summer tires
- Sport exhaust system
- Black gloss exterior accent trim
- Executive package
- Dual-pane noise-reducing windows
- Power soft-closing doors
- Heated rear seats
- Head-up display
- Luxury package
- Front massaging seats
- Faux suede headliner
- Leather-wrapped armrests, dashboard and center console
- Driver Assistance package
- Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the RS Q8 and the car in front)
- Lane keeping assist (steers the RS Q8 back into its lane if it begins to drift over the lane marker)
- Intersection Assist (issues warning at up to 18 mph if cross-traffic is detected)
- Traffic sign recognition
Other stand-alone options include:
- Upgraded Bang & Olufsen sound system
- Night Vision Assistant (displays thermal imaging to help with night driving)
- Carbon-ceramic brake rotors
- Towing package




2021 Audi RS Q8 pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2021 Audi RS Q8.
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
Features & Specs
- Total MSRP
- $115,595
- MPG & Fuel
- 13 City / 19 Hwy / 15 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 22.5 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 5 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: all wheel drive
- Transmission: 8-speed shiftable automatic
- Engine
- V8 cylinder
- Horsepower: 591 hp
- Torque: 590 lb-ft
- Basic Warranty
- 4 yr./ 50000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 197.3 in. / Height: 66.7 in.
- Overall Width with Mirrors: 86.2 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 78.7 in.
- Curb Weight: 5490 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 30.5 cu.ft.

Safety
Our experts’ favorite RS Q8 safety features:
- Audi Pre Sense City
- Uses sensors at the front of the car to warn you about an imminent front collision and can automatically apply the brakes.
- Audi Side Assist with Rear Cross-Traffic Assist and Vehicle Exit Warning
- Warns you if a vehicle is lurking in your blind spot and alerts passengers beginning to exit the car to approaching vehicles.
- Intersection Assist
- Helps monitor cross-traffic when approaching or driving through an intersection at low speeds and can issue an alert when cars are about to cross in front.
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Rating |
---|---|
Overall | Not Rated |
Driver | Not Rated |
Passenger | Not Rated |
Side Crash Rating | Rating |
Overall | Not Rated |
Side Barrier Rating | Rating |
Overall | Not Rated |
Driver | Not Rated |
Passenger | Not Rated |
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings | Rating |
Front Seat | Not Rated |
Back Seat | Not Rated |
Rollover | Rating |
Rollover | 4 / 5 |
Dynamic Test Result | No Tip |
Risk Of Rollover | 15.8% |
Audi RS Q8 vs. the competition

2021 Audi RS Q8

2021 Porsche Cayenne
Audi RS Q8 vs. Porsche Cayenne
The RS Q8 gets the upper hand here, cranking out about 50 horsepower more than the Porsche. But this is about more than just engine power. Both of these German powerhouses match up well, with similar performance, handling and tech features, although the Porsche is a bit more agile and playful. It's also a bit more expensive. And that's without options.
Audi RS Q8 vs. Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
The RS Q8 and Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S reflect the traditional distinctions between both brands. The Audi features sharp, modern exterior and cabin design, while the Mercedes' smoother curves and more restrained interior feel more timeless and elegant. Both deliver bonkers power, with the Benz eclipsing the 600-hp mark. The GLE also offers a bit more cargo space. Both are priced competitively, so this really comes down to style and preference.
Audi RS Q8 vs. Maserati Levante
The Maserati Levante Trofeo has an exotic tinge to its name, hence the nearly $40,000 price difference. Whether it really commands that premium, however, is open to debate. It's fast, handles well, and comports itself like a high-performance Italian car. But it also has less cargo space than the Audi, and some of the interior bits have a parts-bin feel. If you want something different from the standard German rocket sled, though, the Levante fits the bill.
FAQ
Is the Audi RS Q8 a good car?
What's new in the 2021 Audi RS Q8?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 Audi RS Q8:
- The RS Q8 is unchanged for 2021
- Part of the first RS Q8 generation introduced for 2020
Is the Audi RS Q8 reliable?
Is the 2021 Audi RS Q8 a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2021 Audi RS Q8?
The least-expensive 2021 Audi RS Q8 is the 2021 Audi RS Q8 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $114,500.
Other versions include:
- 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) which starts at $114,500
What are the different models of Audi RS Q8?
2021 Audi RS Q8 Overview
The 2021 Audi RS Q8 is offered in the following submodels: RS Q8 SUV. Available styles include 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A). The 2021 Audi RS Q8 comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic. The 2021 Audi RS Q8 comes with a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. basic warranty, a 4 yr./ unlimited mi. roadside warranty, and a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. powertrain warranty.
What do people think of the 2021 Audi RS Q8?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2021 Audi RS Q8 and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2021 RS Q8 5.0 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2021 RS Q8.
Pros
- Turbo V8 delivers devastating straight-line performance
- Nimble, lively handling puts most sports cars to shame
- Comfortable, well-trimmed interior
Cons
- Infotainment system can be distracting to use
- Limited interior storage
- Less practical than the related Q7
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2021 Audi RS Q8 and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2021 RS Q8 featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2021 Audi RS Q8?
2021 Audi RS Q8 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A)
The 2021 Audi RS Q8 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $115,595. The average price paid for a new 2021 Audi RS Q8 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) is trending $1,457 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $1,457 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $114,138.
The average savings for the 2021 Audi RS Q8 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) is 1.3% below the MSRP.
Which 2021 Audi RS Q8S are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2021 Audi RS Q8 for sale near. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2021 Audi RS Q8.
Can't find a new 2021 Audi RS Q8s you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new Audi for sale.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
What is the MPG of a 2021 Audi RS Q8?
2021 Audi RS Q8 4dr SUV AWD (4.0L 8cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A), 8-speed shiftable automatic, premium unleaded (required)
15 MPG compined MPG,
13 city MPG/19 highway MPG
EPA Est. MPG | 15 |
Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Drive Train | all wheel drive |
Displacement | 4.0 L |
Passenger Volume | N/A |
Wheelbase | 117.9 in. |
Length | 197.3 in. |
Width | N/A |
Height | 66.7 in. |
Curb Weight | 5490 lbs. |
Should I lease or buy a 2021 Audi RS Q8?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Audi lease specials
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