Audi RS Q8 – design
Imposing and fussy nose aside, it’s one of the more palatable coupe-SUVs out there
Despite its SUV billing, no car in the current Audi range makes such a concerted effort to reference the Audi Quattro as does the Q8. Its hatchback rather than coupe-like roofline sits atop a thin glasshouse with elegant, clean junctions due to its frameless glass and crisp, square haunches. Unfortunately, the reality of the RS Q8 being an SUV means that these details sit on a chunky, high-sided body. New for the latest facelift is a revised front apron, honeycomb grille mesh, new headlights and an OLED rear light bar.
The gaping front end isn’t subtle, but the considerable airflow required to keep the V8 engine happy does influence the design. Overall the RS Q8 does have more in common with its lesser siblings than most other RS models, and the same goes for the Performance, which you can pick out by its matte grey exterior accents in place of the standard black. Matte or gloss carbon is available for the top-spec car, too, as well as 23-inch 5-spoke light-alloy wheels.
Does it all work? The RS Q8 doesn’t shout at you like some other hot SUVs – not least the related Urus – but cynical observers might describe it as the prettiest hippo in its mud pool. The truth is plenty of consumers will like it, and for the sort of people this car appeals to, the RS Q8’s styling will be more of a draw than a hindrance.
