Infotainment and Audi connect

Audi equips the RS Q8** with a comprehensive range of infotainment and connectivity features. The vanguard of the Q family comes standard with the top infotainment system, MMI navigation plus with integrated Audi connect data transfer module. This brings not just the Wi-Fi hotspot but also the fast LTE Advanced communication standard to the car. It allows data download rates of up to 300 Mbit/s and upload rates of up to 50 Mbit/s. The module provides the Audi connect services in virtually all European countries via a SIM card permanently installed in the vehicle. All these systems are based on the latest-generation Modular Infotainment Platform, the MIB 2+.

A step ahead: the navigation

When planning the route, the self-learning navigation system makes suggestions to the driver based on routes driven previously, incorporating experiences regarding time of day and traffic density. The route is calculated online on the servers of the map and navigation service provider HERE, which also considers real-time data concerning the overall traffic situation. If the data connection is lost while the car is on the move, the navigation system will switch to on-board route guidance, which runs in the background.

The map with updated graphics includes detailed 3D models of many major cities in Europe. An expanded point-of-interest display allows drivers to access to such places as gas stations and parking garages while navigation is active, supplemented with additional information such as fuel prices, number of available parking spaces or operating hours. The customer can load four free card updates per year – even over-the-air in combination with Audi connect.

Well-informed and entertained: connect services and auditory experience

The Audi connect online services, which are likewise free of charge in the first three years, supplement navigation with predictive elements. This is particularly true for the Car-to-X services traffic sign information and hazard alerts, which use the swarm intelligence of the Audi fleet.

Audi connectalso offers many other services, such as media streaming, online news and navigation with Google Earth. Access to Twitter, email and hybrid radio is also included. With the latter, the radio automatically switches between FM, DAB and the online stream depending on the signal strength to ensure optimal reception at all times.

The functions of Audi connect emergency call and service form their own package. In many markets, the data traffic for all connect services goes through the Audi connect SIM, which is permanently installed in the car. Using the myAudi app, owners of the new Audi RS Q8 gain access to the brand’s digital ecosystem.

The optional Audi connect key provides digital access to the RS Q8**. It allows the owner and four additional drivers to lock and unlock the car and start the engine using their Android smartphone. They can store their preferred settings in individual profiles using the standard personalization function. Up to 400 parameters can be entered, from air conditioning settings and seat adjustments to navigation destinations and media. The car identifies the respective user from the signal in the remote control key or Audi connect key as soon as the automobile is unlocked and activates their profile.

Telephony in the RS Q8 is top-notch with respect to operation, sound and connection quality. The Audi phone box connects the smartphone to the vehicle’s antenna and charges the phone inductively. Another function, Voice-over-LTE, helps to connect faster and makes it possible to use high-speed data transfer and high-resolution online voice telephony at the same time. The Audi smartphone interface connects to customers’ iOS and Android cell phones – in the future even wirelessly in the case of the iPhone – and places their Apple Car Play or Android Auto environment on the MMI display.

To play music from an MP3 player, USB stick or smartphone through the car’s loudspeakers, the RS Q8 has two USB ports under the center armrest as well as two optional USB ports in the rear, all of which also include a charging function. The Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System with 23 speakers brings 3D sound with its height information to the front seats as well as to the rear. The music unfolds exactly how it was recorded at the concert hall – a fascinating listening experience.

All terms marked in the text are explained in detail in the technology lexicon at www.audi-mediacenter.com/en/technology-lexicon.

The equipment, data and prices specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.