Last Updated on May 19, 2023 by Victor A
Audi has some interesting SUV models in their line-up, but the one that stands out the most is the Q8, which comes in two high-performance flavors, the Audi RSQ8 vs SQ8.
They both offer impressive performance, luxury features, and stylish designs. But which one is the better SUV?
RSQ8 vs SQ8 exterior and interior design
Starting with the obvious, both SUVs are quite similar, however, some different design bits can help you identify each one when you see them in the wild.
The Audi RSQ8 has a more aggressive front design thanks to its larger air intakes, the black-out outer grille, and the lower front-lip spoiler.
The SQ8 comes with more traditional looks in the front, and the biggest giveaway to identify this version is the standard silver outer grille, which can be optioned in black.
The side profile of both SUVs is practically the same, you won’t find many notable differences here.
But the rear is a whole different story, here is where you can find most contrasts. First of all, in the RSQ8 there are two big exhaust pipes, and two air vents under the tail lights. Other giveaways are the lower rear bumper, which comes with a more sporty design, and the rear spoiler.
The only thing that stands out more in the SQ8 rear is the quad-exhausts which in our opinion, they fit well in this model.
In terms of interior design, both SUVs are almost identical, except that the RSQ8 comes with performance seats.
Engine and performance of the Audi RSQ8 vs SQ8
While both the Audi RSQ8 and the Audi SQ8 are high-performance SUVs, there are some key differences between the two.
The RS Q8 is the more powerful of the two, with a 4.0 twin-turbo V8 engine that produces 591 hp (600 PS) and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque.
The SQ8 uses the same 4.0 twin-turbo V8 unit but in this case, only produces 500 hp (507 PS) and 568 lb-ft (770 Nm) of torque.
Acceleration is way different between both SUVs, the RSQ8 can speed up from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 3.7 seconds, while the SQ8 can reach 60 mph (96 km/h) in 4.3 seconds.
Both SUVs have a top speed limitation of 155 mph (250 km/h).
The Audi RSQ8 is a winner in terms of engine and specifications.
Prices
Here’s where the Audi SQ8 is the clear winner, but this is obvious since it’s the small sibling of the RSQ8.
In the US the RSQ8 starts at MSRP $125,800 and the SQ8 at $95,500, while in Europe, the RSQ8 will set you back at a starting price of 165.490,00€ and the SQ8 starts at 126.630,00€.
As you can see there is a huge difference between the US and Europe, the Q8 models are way less costly there than in Europe.
Also, the difference in price between the RSQ8 vs SQ8 is quite significant, $30,300 in the US and 38,860€ in Europe.
As expected, Audi has fitted both SUVs with the latest tech, like Apple CarPlay, and safety features, like Audi Side Assist, so you know that these cars come standard with a bunch of important features.
Which one is better?
Usually, when we compare SUVs we find some difficulty when answering this question, but in this Audi RSQ8 vs SQ8 comparison, it’s clear.
The RSQ8 is the better choice, no matter the price difference. Audi is offering in the RSQ8 almost a 100 hp increase, an important acceleration improvement, and an exterior design that makes the car stand out.
It is true that the RSQ8 could’ve received a slightly better interior, and that the top speed could’ve been tweaked more, but overall it’s a great car and the price increase is completely justified in this case.
For those who like EV vehicles, they have the Audi SQ8 e-tron which comes with decent power and range but is nothing impressive compared with its competitors.
Also, we need to be mindful that this Q8 generation has been in the market since 2018, and it’s due to a facelift like its main competitors, the BMW X6 and the GLE Coupe have recently received.
So it’s a matter of time until Audi unveils the new 2024 Audi Q8, and the Audi Q7.
