It’s Official Now: Audi RS Q8 is the Nürburgring’s fastest SUV

We had all heard rumors that a pre-production copy of the new Audi RS Q8 set a new record in the SUV class at the North Loop, but no official confirmation followed – until now.

According to Audi, the coupe-shaped crossover vehicle lapped the track up in 7 minutes 42.2 seconds, beating the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S with its 510 hp (380 kW) by full seven seconds.

The RS Q8 hasn’t even properly premiered yet, but we have a few bits of information from reliable unofficial sources. Reportedly, the newcomer will get the exact same 4.0-liter, twin-turbo V8 engine as the new RS6 Avant (600 hp / 447 kW, 800 Nm / 590 lb-ft). It will accelerate from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in about 3.8 seconds and max out at 306 km/h (190 mph).

The feature list allegedly includes roll stabilizers, four-wheel steering, air suspension, a torque vectoring system based on the rear differential, and huge 23-inch wheels wrapped in Pirelli P Zero 295/35 ZR23 tires (max).

The performance SUV will not look too different from its standard counterpart on the outside. The novelty will likely boil down to a revised body kit, a few carbon fiber parts, oval exhaust tips, and a sportier-looking rear diffuser.

We expect the Audi RS Q8 to premiere at the 2019 LA Auto Show later this month.