Audi RS Q8 vs Lamborghini Urus

The Battle of RS Q8 vs Urus

Over the past decade, the luxury SUV market has exploded with models that deliver not just comfort and practicality but also supercar level performance. Among the leaders in this space are the Audi RS Q8 and the Lamborghini Urus. Both vehicles share Volkswagen Group (VAG group) DNA, yet they appeal to very different buyers. If you’re deciding between these two high performance SUVs, this detailed comparison of the Audi RS Q8 vs Lamborghini Urus will help you understand how they differ in design, performance and overall value.

Design & Road Presence

When it comes to styling, the Lamborghini Urus is unmistakably bold. With sharp lines, aggressive air intakes and Lamborghini’s signature wedge like stance. The Urus commands attention everywhere it goes. It’s designed for those who want their SUV to double as a statement piece.

The Audi RS Q8, takes a more understated approach. It shares much of its silhouette with the standard Q8 but adds wider arches, a more muscular stance, honeycomb grilles and large exhaust tips. Where the Urus screams exotic, the RS Q8 whispers power and sophistication. This makes the Audi RS Q8 the better choice if you want performance without drawing too much attention.

Performance & Driving Dynamics

Both the RS Q8 and Urus are powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine. The Urus produces roughly 650-800 bhp (depending on trim / hybrid version) while the RS Q8 is rated around 591-600 bhp on base/new models. On paper, the Urus edges ahead in raw numbers. For example, the new Urus SE (plug-in hybrid version) has a combined power output higher than many versions of the RS Q8. The Urus SE produces 800hp and 950nm of torque.

Acceleration figures are similarly close: Urus can do 0-62 mph in about 3.6 to 3.4 seconds in its more powerful/hybrid trims, versus the RS Q8 in roughly 3.7-3.8 seconds for standard trim depending on spec. Handling is where Lamborghini fine-tunes the difference: stiffer suspension, rear steering and stronger braking components give the Urus a sharper dynamic edge. However, the RS Q8 tends to ride a bit more comfortably and is easier to live with on everyday roads.

Interior & Comfort

Inside, the Lamborghini Urus feels like a supercar on stilts. The cabin is dramatic with ambitious design and high quality materials. You’ll find advanced displays, rich leather, bold colour and trim options and a digital cockpit full of personality.

The Audi RS Q8 interior is less flamboyant and arguably more practical. Equipment is top notch: Audi’s Virtual Cockpit, dual touchscreen infotainment and excellent build quality. Seat comfort is excellent, rear space is generous and the RS Q8 offers a more intuitive interface for daily use. If you want usability and understated elegance then the Audi wins, if you crave drama and exclusivity then the Lamborghini takes the crown.

Price & Value

This is where the comparison becomes very interesting. The Audi RS Q8 in the UK starts at about £125,090 OTR (On-the-Road) for the base / standard RS Q8. Meanwhile, the Lamborghini Urus S has a starting base price of approximately £208,000 in the UK. 

Despite this huge price gap, the RS Q8 delivers performance that is not far off many trims of the Urus (especially prior to expensive options). The premium for the Urus comes from its brand prestige, exclusivity and the extra kit and styling. But for buyers who are looking purely at performance per pound, the RS Q8 often offers much more value.

Ownership Costs & Resale Value

Owning either SUV comes with high running costs. Expect fuel consumption in the range of 15-20 mpg (or worse depending on driving) and high insurance premiums. Frequent servicing is also something to consider, you can expect to pay £850 – £1000 for a service on the RS Q8 depending on the level. However, there is a drastic price increase for the Urus S which will set you back £2,200 – £3,700 depending on the level of service. 

Regarding resale, the Lamborghini Urus tends to retain value better due to its brand recognition, limited production and desirability. The RS Q8 while highly desirable too, will depreciate more like a high end luxury SUV. Because its initial cost is lower, the financial hit in absolute terms is smaller. The Urus’s base price (£208,000) vs RS Q8’s (£125,090) means a similar percentage drop costs you much more in cash with the Urus.

Which One Is Right for You?

So, which SUV wins the battle of Audi RS Q8 vs Lamborghini Urus? The answer depends heavily on what you value most.

• Choose the Audi RS Q8 if you want near supercar performance in a refined, understated and practical package. It delivers exceptional value and daily usability for significantly less cost (£125,090 base) than its Urus rival.
• Choose the Lamborghini Urus if you crave an exotic badge, dramatic styling and exclusivity that few other SUVs can match. If you’re willing to pay a premium (base around £208,000 on the S) for that experience.

Either way, both of these SUVs redefine what’s possible in the high performance market, proving that you can indeed have speed and luxury all in one package.