Best Video Highlight
A standout YouTube test featuring all three rivals is from CarWow:
Drag Race Results: Who Wins?
From CarWow and Autoevolution:
- X6 M Competition consistently had the best launches and won all three standing-start runs—even on wet pavement—finishing the quarter‑mile in about 11.8 s
- The Cayenne Turbo S E‑Hybrid came in second (~12.0 s).
- The RS Q8 trailed slightly behind (~12.3 s)
Spec Comparison
| Model | Power (hp) | Torque (Nm) | Weight | 0–100 kph | ¼‑mile |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| X6 M Comp | 625 hp | 750 Nm | ~2,322 kg | ~3.8 s | 11.8 s |
| RS Q8 Perf | 631 hp | 850 Nm (Performance) | ~2,419 kg | ~3.8 s | 12.3 s |
| Cayenne S E‑Hybrid | 680 hp | 900 Nm | ~2,490 kg | – | ~12.0 s |
Audi claims 0–62 mph in 3.8 s—confirming its class-leading figures despite weight penalties .
Why BMW Wins the Race
- Launch control & AWD tuning: The X6 M’s m xDrive system manages traction better off the line, especially in wet conditions
- Abundant torque/power: Though its peak numbers are slightly lower, real-world performance is strong—BMW engines tend to underrate .
- Weight advantage: It’s lighter than the hybrid Cayenne and even the RS Q8, enhancing relative acceleration
RS Q8: Close But Behind
- Amped-up Powertrain: The RS Q8 Performance pushes 631 hp and 850 Nm (with 48V electric assistance and eAWS), topping RS trims
- Grip & dynamics: Quattro, torque vectoring, and all-wheel steering deliver excellent handling
- Still, it loses ground off the line—suggesting less optimal launch grip .
Porsche Cayenne Turbo S E‑Hybrid: Hybrid Versus
- Hybrid power boost: Packs 680 hp and 900 Nm, but adds ~170 kg, hurting momentum
- Quarter-mile: Manages ~12.0 s—better than RS Q8 but unable to catch the BMW due to weight .
Final Verdict
- BMW X6 M Competition dominates drag-strip showdowns with superior launches and consistently best times.
- Audi RS Q8 Performance is nearly equal in power and lighter grip, making it extremely fast—but slightly slower off the line.
- Porsche Cayenne Turbo S E‑Hybrid brings hybrid torque advantage but is hampered by additional mass.
On-Road & Track Considerations
- X6 M: Powerful, agile, and launch-honed—fans cite it “blew the RS Q8 out of the water” in rolling starts too
- RS Q8: Offers premium cabin, top-tier comfort, and race-track swagger; also set Nürburgring records with optional suspension .
- Cayenne E‑Hybrid: Balanced luxury, hybrid punch, but its extra weight dulls responsiveness.
Want More Details?
- Rolling-start times, brake tests, and 0–200 kph charts from FastestLaps.com
- In-depth performance deep dives, launch-control insights, and track vs street behavior.
Let me know if you’d like a deeper dive into styling, tech, price comparisons, and which one suits your driving style best!