Not long after the Q8's launch, Audi unveiled the RS Q8 at the 2019 Los Angeles International Auto Show, combining the form factor of the Q8 crossover SUV with the potent 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 from the C8 RS6 and the 4K8 RS7. The RS Q8 competes with top-end luxury SUVs like the Mercedes-Benz GLE 63 S, the Range Rover SVR, and the BMW X6 M.

With a top speed limited to 155.3 mph, the Audi RS Q8 features an eight-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, sourced from ZF, and quattro all-wheel drive. The RS Q8 has a unique live-link front and rear independent suspension, with adaptive air suspension and controlled damping. The 2022 Audi RS Q8 is available in a single trim level.

The Audi MMI dual-touchscreen has RS Q8-specific displays, and the seats are embossed with RS emblems, upholstered in black Nappa leather and Alcantara, along with a flat-bottomed steering wheel. The exterior has a larger RS-specific grille opening, huge air intakes, trim unique from the rest of the Q8 lineup, and 22-inch 10 V-spoke Star Design aluminum wheels with summer tires standard.

Standard features on the 2022 Audi RS Q8 include Audi Virtual Cockpit Plus with an RS-specific display, active roll stabilization, a Sport rear differential, and RS-tuned adaptive air suspension.

For 2022, look for standard driver-assistance features, which include adaptive cruise control with traffic-jam assist and lane guidance, and Audi’s active lane-assist system. Inside, new Carbon Vector inlays are standard equipment, as well as a direct tire-pressure monitoring system. A newly available Executive package includes heated rear seats with sunshades for the rear windows, ventilated front seats with leather package, HD matrix-design LED headlights, and a Contour/Ambient LED Lighting plus Multicolor package. Red brake calipers are now a standalone option. The new Carbon Optic package includes carbon mirror housings, door inlays, and rear diffuser trim, as well as 22-inch graphite gray wheels and black exterior accents, roof rails, and grille.

The RS Q8 is available in nine different colors, eight of which come at a $595 upcharge. (All of the interior colors are available as $0 options.) Appearance packages include such options as $500 red brake calipers, a $3,250 Black Optic package, and the $8,500 ceramic brake upgrade, with another $500 to make the calipers red or blue.

The 2022 Audi RS Q8 starts at $119,900 before options packages and destination fees.