Audi RS Q8 Core Model vs. Performance

Last updated August 4, 2026

Audi RS Q8

The Audi RS Q8 Core Model is the original, fully equipped version sold as the base RS Q8. It combines strong V8 performance and specialized handling hardware with a luxurious, technology-rich cabin. The newer RS Q8 Performance is the higher-output evolution. It keeps the everyday comfort and all-wheel-drive usefulness, then adds more power, ceramic brakes, and a rear sport differential for sharper performance.

What each trim is known for

Audi RS Q8 Core Model

Core Model

base

The Core Model is the original full-strength RS Q8: a fast, luxurious SUV that balances serious road performance with everyday comfort.

Best for: Drivers who want the complete RS Q8 experience without needing the newer Performance model's extra track-focused hardware.

Highlights

  • 591-hp twin-turbo V8 with an 8-speed automatic and quattro all-wheel drive
  • RS-tuned adaptive air suspension with active roll stabilization
  • Ventilated Valcona leather sport seats plus
  • Touchscreen navigation and a Bang & Olufsen Premium 3D sound system
3 in stock
Audi RS Q8 Performance

Performance

Performance

The Performance trim level, sold as the RS Q8 Performance, is the more powerful and more track-focused version while remaining a richly trimmed daily-use SUV.

Best for: Drivers who want the strongest RS Q8 performance and upgraded braking and cornering hardware without giving up cabin comfort.

Highlights

  • 631-hp twin-turbo V8 with an 8-speed automatic and all-wheel drive
  • Front and rear ceramic brakes
  • Torque-vectoring rear sport differential
  • Heated and ventilated Valcona leather front sport seats

Steps up from the Core Model with 631 hp instead of 591 hp, plus ceramic brakes and a torque-vectoring rear sport differential.

0 in stock

Trim comparison

FeatureCore ModelPerformance
Includes
base3 in stock
Performance0 in stock
Engine output591-hp twin-turbo V8631-hp twin-turbo V8
BrakesPerformance braking setupFront and rear ceramic brakes
Rear differentialRS all-wheel-drive systemTorque-vectoring rear sport differential
Front sport seatsVentilated Valcona leatherHeated and ventilated Valcona leather
Digital instrument displayRS-specific performance views12.3-inch display with RS Performance and RS Sport views

Frequently asked questions

How many Audi RS Q8 trims are there?

Audi offered one U.S. RS Q8 trim at a time in the years covered here. The 2020-2024 model was simply the regular RS Q8, while the 2025-2026 lineup consists of the RS Q8 Performance.

Why do some used RS Q8 listings say Performance while others do not?

The name identifies the era. A 2020-2024 U.S. model is the regular RS Q8, while refreshed 2025-2026 models use the RS Q8 Performance name and have the stronger 631-horsepower engine specification.

What does base mean on an Audi RS Q8 listing?

Base does not mean stripped down here. For 2020-2024, it refers to the sole U.S. RS Q8 version, which already included the V8, all-wheel drive, RS suspension hardware, leather sport seats, navigation, and premium audio.

What is the Audi RS Q8 Performance trim?

Since the 2025 refresh, Performance has been the sole U.S. RS Q8 trim. It combines a 631-horsepower twin-turbo V8 with ceramic brakes, adaptive air suspension, active roll control, and a torque-vectoring rear differential.

Are there Premium, Premium Plus, or Prestige RS Q8 trims?

No. In the U.S. years covered here, the RS Q8 does not use Audi’s familiar Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige ladder. It is a one-trim model, with the name changing to Performance for 2025-2026.

What is the difference between the regular RS Q8 and RS Q8 Performance?

The main difference is the newer Performance model’s upgrade from 591 to 631 horsepower. It also brings refreshed styling and standard front and rear ceramic brakes, while retaining adaptive air suspension and active roll control.

Did RS Q8 Performance replace the regular RS Q8 trim?

Yes. The RS Q8 Performance replaced the regular U.S. RS Q8 as part of the 2025 refresh. It remains a single-trim lineup rather than becoming an extra step above another RS Q8.

Is the RS Q8 Performance a stripped-down track trim?

No. The newer RS Q8 Performance keeps a luxury-focused cabin with heated and ventilated Valcona leather sport seats and a 12.3-inch digital instrument display alongside its upgraded performance hardware.

Do the regular RS Q8 and Performance use the same basic drivetrain?

Yes. Both eras use a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8, an eight-speed automatic, and all-wheel drive. The newer Performance version increases output from 591 to 631 horsepower.

Which RS Q8 version should I pick for the most power?

Pick the 2025-2026 RS Q8 Performance if maximum output is the priority. Its V8 makes 631 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque, compared with 591 horsepower in the 2020-2024 regular RS Q8.

Which RS Q8 version fits someone who wants the original formula?

A 2020-2024 regular RS Q8 provides the original 591-horsepower setup. It still includes all-wheel drive, adaptive air suspension, active roll control, premium cabin materials, and strong everyday usability.

Which RS Q8 trim has ceramic brakes?

The 2025-2026 RS Q8 Performance has front and rear ceramic brakes as standard. On a 2020-2024 RS Q8, verify the individual vehicle’s brake equipment rather than assuming it matches the newer trim.

What comfort and tech equipment comes with the older RS Q8 trim?

In 2020-2024 form, the sole RS Q8 trim includes ventilated Valcona leather sport seats, touchscreen navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital instrument display, and Bang & Olufsen premium audio.

Do both RS Q8 versions have adaptive air suspension and active roll control?

Yes. Both the 2020-2024 regular RS Q8 and the 2025-2026 Performance use RS-tuned adaptive air suspension and active roll control to balance ride comfort with flatter cornering.

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