Akrapovic 2020+ Audi RS Q8 (M4) Evolution Line Cat Back (Titanium) w/Carbon Fiber/Titanium Tips

The Akrapovic S-AU/TI/20H Evolution Line Cat Back (Titanium) with Carbon Fiber and Titanium Tips is the definitive exhaust upgrade for the 2020 to 2025 Audi RS Q8 (4ML) with the 4.0L V8 TFSI biturbo engine. Hand-crafted at Akrapovic’s Slovenia facility from aerospace-grade titanium, the S-AU/TI/20H replaces the entire factory catback system and delivers a documented gain of 12 kW (16 HP) at 5,500 rpm, 25 Nm (18 lb/ft) at 2,000 rpm, and an extraordinary 19.1 kg (42.1 lbs) weight reduction versus the OEM system. The signature hexagonal titanium muffler bodies with carbon fiber end caps and four 120mm carbon fiber inlet with titanium outer tips transform the RS Q8’s rear visual presentation while the carefully tuned Akrapovic sound chambers unlock the deep, layered V8 exhaust note that the factory system actively suppresses. The S-AU/TI/20H is for RS Q8 owners who want the complete performance and sound transformation, not just an incremental improvement.

Fitment

Specifications

What’s Included

• Titanium muffler set (S-AU/T/20H)
• Titanium link pipe set (S-AU/1)
• 4x 120mm carbon fiber and titanium exhaust tips
• Stainless steel clamps and mounting hardware
• Akrapovic installation instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Akrapovic S-AU/TI/20H fit the Audi RS Q8 Prestige and RS Q8 Performance for 2020 through 2025?

Yes. The S-AU/TI/20H is designed for all 2020 to 2025 Audi RS Q8 (4ML) variants with the 4.0L V8 TFSI biturbo engine, including the Prestige and Performance trims sold in North America.

How much does the Akrapovic S-AU/TI/20H weigh compared to the factory RS Q8 exhaust?

The S-AU/TI/20H system weighs 12.6 kg (27.8 lbs). The factory RS Q8 catback weighs 31.7 kg (69.9 lbs). The Akrapovic system removes 19.1 kg (42.1 lbs) from the rear of the vehicle, which measurably improves weight distribution, rear axle load, and brake performance.

What power and torque gains does the Akrapovic S-AU/TI/20H add to the Audi RS Q8?

Akrapovic’s dyno testing records a gain of 12 kW (16 HP) at 5,500 rpm and 25 Nm (18 lb/ft) at 2,000 rpm on a stock RS Q8 with no other modifications. The gains are realized without ECU tuning.

Does the Akrapovic RS Q8 catback require ECU tuning or coding?

No. The S-AU/TI/20H is a direct bolt-on catback that retains all factory catalytic converters and oxygen sensors. The Audi RS Q8 factory ECU does not require modification or recalibration for this installation.

Will the Akrapovic S-AU/TI/20H trigger a check engine light on my Audi RS Q8?

No. Because the S-AU/TI/20H retains the factory catalytic converters and all OEM oxygen sensor mounting positions, no fault codes or check engine lights are generated on a stock RS Q8 with this installation.

What do the carbon fiber and titanium tips look like on the RS Q8?

The S-AU/TI/20H uses four 120mm round tips with carbon fiber inlet rings and brushed titanium outer bodies. The tips fill the RS Q8’s rear diffuser cutouts with a visually dramatic, asymmetric carbon and titanium finish that replaces the factory chrome tips entirely.

Does the Akrapovic S-AU/TI/20H work with the Audi RS Q8’s active exhaust sound valve system?

The S-AU/TI/20H integrates with the RS Q8’s factory OPF (Otto Particle Filter) system and active valve wiring. The factory driving mode sound management is retained after installation. The S-AU/TI/20H is the OPF-compatible variant for the 4ML RS Q8.

Is the Akrapovic S-AU/TI/20H street legal in the United States?

The S-AU/TI/20H is EC homologated for European road use and is designed for street use. It is not CARB certified. California residents should verify compliance before purchase. For all other US states, this is a street-compatible exhaust system. Always confirm local sound ordinances.

How long does it take to install the Akrapovic S-AU/TI/20H on the Audi RS Q8?

A professional installer can complete the S-AU/TI/20H installation in approximately two to four hours. The system is a direct bolt-on replacement at all factory mounting points, but the RS Q8’s underfloor packaging requires careful routing of the link pipes for correct alignment.

What warranty does the Akrapovic S-AU/TI/20H carry?

The S-AU/TI/20H is backed by Akrapovic’s lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects for the original purchaser, covering all components and workmanship for the life of the exhaust system.

Installation Instructions

1. Allow the Audi RS Q8 to cool completely before starting. The factory exhaust system and OPF unit retain significant heat after operation.
2. Raise and secure the RS Q8 on a lift or appropriately rated jack stands with stable support at all four chassis jack points.
3. Disconnect the factory active exhaust valve actuator connectors at the muffler assembly and secure the wiring harnesses clear of the exhaust routing area.
4. Loosen and remove all factory clamps at the OPF/catalytic converter outlets on both sides of the vehicle.
5. Disconnect and remove all factory hanger isolators along the catback routing path. Support the weight of the factory muffler and link pipe assembly before releasing the final hanger to avoid dropping the system.
6. Lower and set aside the factory catback assembly. Inspect all rubber hanger isolators for wear or cracking and replace any deformed isolators before proceeding.
7. Install the Akrapovic S-AU/1 titanium link pipes onto the OPF/cat outlets, aligning all flange faces. Attach supplied clamps hand-tight at this stage.
8. Connect the S-AU/T/20H titanium muffler set to the link pipe outlets. Hang the muffler assemblies into the factory rubber isolators on both sides.
9. Install the 120mm carbon fiber and titanium tips onto the muffler outlets and secure the tip hardware to specification.
10. Reconnect the factory exhaust valve actuator connector to the Akrapovic muffler valve port.
11. Verify all clamps, hanger connections, and tip hardware are fully engaged before applying final torque. Torque all clamps to the specifications in the Akrapovic instruction sheet.
12. Lower the vehicle and start the engine. Run a full idle heat cycle for 10 to 15 minutes. After cooling, re-inspect all joints and re-torque any clamps that shifted during the first thermal cycle.

WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead and phthalates, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.