This Audi RS Q8 has been dubbed a ‘Racing Utility Vehicle’ by ABT Sportsline and given the performance that it offers, we’d be inclined to agree with that designation.
The standard RS Q8 is a serious performer thanks to a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine churning out an impressive 591 hp at 6,000 rpm and 590 lb-ft (800 Nm) of torque. Sure, that’s less than its VW Group siblings the Lamborghini Urus and Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT, but it is more than enough to satisfy most customers. Not ABT, however.
Eager to boost performance from the SUV, ABT Sportsline has worked extensively on the V8, installing new turbochargers and a beefed-up intercooler. The German tuner has also remapped the ECU and fitted a stainless steel exhaust system with quad tailpipes. All up, the company’s RS Q8 Signature Edition now produces 789 hp and 738 lb-ft (1,000 Nm) of torque.
These horsepower and torque gains mean the super-SUV can sprint to 62 mph (100 km/h) in just 3.2 seconds, an impressive 0.8 seconds quicker than the standard model. ABT’s RS Q8 will then continue to accelerate all the way to 195.7 mph (315 km/h).
Various other upgrades have been made to the Audi. For example, there is an eye-catching carbon fiber aerodynamic kit that includes a new front lip spoiler, blades around the front air intakes, side skirts, a large rear diffuser, and a new rear spoiler. A set of 23-inch wheels finished in gloss black and wrapped in 295/35 tires are also fitted.
The interior has also been tweaked with an embossed ABT logo in the headrests, unique badging on the floor mats, and a multitude of carbon fiber parts.
ABT Sportsline will build just 96 examples of its RS Q8 Signature Edition. Prices for the package start at €129,000 ($135,000) or €316,480 ($332,000), including the RS Q8 donor car itself.