The V8 engine has long been a symbol of power and performance. While it’s most commonly found in high-end sports cars, supercars, and luxury SUVs, a number of automakers in India continue to offer V8-powered vehicles at prices that may surprise many. These vehicles offer the thrilling experience of a large-capacity engine, delivering impressive horsepower and torque, along with a symphony of exhaust notes.
Here’s a look at the top five most affordable V8-powered cars currently on sale in India:
| Model | Ex-Showroom Price |
|---|---|
| Land Rover Defender V8 | ₹1.52 Crore |
| Porsche Cayenne GTS | ₹1.99 Crore |
| BMW M5 | ₹1.99 Crore |
| Mercedes-AMG SL 55 | ₹2.35 Crore |
| Audi RS Q8 Performance | ₹2.49 Crore |
Land Rover Defender V8
Starting at an ex-showroom price of ₹1.52 crore, the Land Rover Defender stands out as the most affordable V8-powered car in India. Available in multiple body styles, including the Defender 90, 110, and 130, the Defender V8 comes with a 5.0-litre supercharged V8 engine that generates 518 HP and 625 NM of torque. For those who want even more power, the Defender Octa variant ups the ante with a 4.4-litre BMW-sourced twin-turbocharged V8, producing 635 HP and 750 NM of torque, offering exhilarating performance. Despite its rugged nature, the Defender doesn’t compromise on luxury or comfort, making it an attractive option for buyers looking for a capable yet exciting V8 SUV.
Porsche Cayenne GTS
If you’re looking for a V8-powered SUV that combines both sportiness and luxury, the Porsche Cayenne GTS is an excellent choice. With a starting price of ₹1.99 crore (ex-showroom), this SUV doesn’t just offer high performance but also impressive handling characteristics. Powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, the Cayenne GTS produces 500 HP, taking it from 0 to 100 KM/H in around 4.5 seconds. The SUV also benefits from Porsche’s precision engineering, providing a dynamic driving experience. For buyers looking to combine practicality with Porsche’s performance DNA, the Cayenne GTS stands as a remarkable offering in the V8 category.
BMW M5
The BMW M5 is a performance sedan that delivers raw power with a level of precision and sophistication expected from a BMW. Priced at ₹1.99 crore (ex-showroom), the M5 is equipped with a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine paired to a hybrid system. This results in a total power output of 727 HP and a massive 1,000 NM of torque. This results in blistering acceleration, with the M5 achieving 100 KM/H in just 3.5 seconds. The car’s precise handling and robust performance make it one of the best performance sedans on the market, combining V8 power with a level of refinement that’s hard to beat in this price range.
Mercedes-AMG SL 55
The Mercedes-AMG SL 55, priced at ₹2.35 crore (ex-showroom), is an iconic roadster. It combines elegance with a punchy performance, all courtesy of the 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine that produces 476 HP and 700 NM of torque. It is an ideal choice for buyers looking for a luxury convertible with strong performance credentials but at a relatively more accessible price point compared to some of the more expensive V8-powered vehicles on the market.
Audi RS Q8 Performanc
The Audi RS Q8 Performance, priced at ₹2.49 crore (ex-showroom), brings together the power of a supercar with the versatility of an SUV. Under the hood is a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine that generates an impressive 640 HP and 850 NM of torque, allowing the RS Q8 to accelerate from 0 to 100 KM/H in just 3.6 seconds. It offers a refined driving experience, with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive system providing stability and agility. It’s a strong contender for buyers who want both power and practicality in a V8-powered vehicle.
