ABT Sportsline regularly presents exciting, completely modified vehicles. In 2021, both the RSQ8-R and the “Johann Abt Signature Edition” based on the Audi RS 6, which was presented for the company’s 125th anniversary, were sold out in no time at all. However, ABT fans will not have to wait too long for an exciting replacement because in mid-January 2022, the world’s largest automotive aftermarket and performance parts specialist for Audi and VW will be launching the new RS6-S and RSQ8-S models. “Both score points with spectacular carbon add-on parts, striking alloy wheels, perfectly balanced suspensions and performance enhancements on a super sports car level,” explains managing partner Hans-Jürgen Abt.
The Avant and the SUV are united by the identical V8 engine with four litres of displacement, whereby the standard output is a thoroughly respectable 600 HP (441 kW), but the potential is far from exhausted, as the ABT Power S* performance upgrade shows. It is based on the high-tech control unit ABT Engine Control (AEC), which increases the engine power in both cases to 700 hp (515 kW) and 880 Nm. Still not enough drive? On request ABT Sportsline increases the power a further time so that 740 HP (544 kW) and 920 Nm are available.
These values are matched by the extensive aerodynamics package made of “motorsport-like” visible carbon, which has many similarities for both vehicles, but also interesting differences. For example, both kits include a striking frontlip with the respective model’s name – RS6-S or RSQ8-S – in red lettering. While the SUV gets ABT side skirt add-ons at the front and rear, the Avant has side skirt add-ons at the front and sideblades at the rear. The two-part rear spoiler, which can be found on both S models, immediately provides the next wow. Just like the ABT stainless steel exhaust system with its four 102 mm tailpipes, it underlines the dynamic appearance of the vehicle.
On the suspension side, both candidates go different ways even in the basic version. With the RSQ8-S, the Bavarian company therefore relies on the ABT Level Control (ALC) in order to tune the standard air suspension even more sportily. The Comfort level now goes down by 25 mm, the Dynamic level by 15 mm, in each case compared to the standard . On the steel-sprung RS6-S, on the other hand, ABT Sportsline implants adjustable suspension springs for variable lowering of up to 25 mm at the front and 30 mm at the rear axle. Added to this are anti-roll bars at the front and rear. This ensures significantly less pitch and roll and perfectly accentuates the gigantic 22-inch ABT High Performance HR rims in the wheel arches. Thanks to the flow-forming process used in the production, the unsprung masses nevertheless remain in the green zone, so that optimum performance is guaranteed. The same applies to the ABT RSQ8-S, where the same wheels are used – only one size larger at 23 inches.
ABT Sportsline has shown great attention to detail in the interior detailing of both dream cars. In addition to the seat upgrade and the integrated entrance lights, the individualisation includes the door sills, the shift knob cover in glossy visible carbon, the ABT start-stop switch cap and the steering wheel badge.
Further interior options are available via an additional package. This includes carbon fibre dashboard and seat frame covers for both models. For the Avant, there are also gearshift paddles made of the same material, which can also be ordered individually. To ensure that the two high-calibre vehicles can be driven in a manner befitting their status after their debut in mid-January, matching ABT GR winter wheels can also be ordered. They have the same dimensions as the summer rims and guarantee an incomparably cool appearance in the cold season.
The spectacular transformation in terms of appearance and performance is available for a package price of 42,900 euros, plus installation. The conversion can be carried out at the head office in Kempten or at the respective ABT partner’s premises, depending on the customer’s wishes. Reservations are now being accepted.
*The engine performance data is in accordance with the stipulations of EWG/80/1269. The process and dynamometer manufacturer have been certified and authorised by the vehicle manufacturer.
