ABT Sportsline does the 2018 Audi SQ5

Audi Sport, a division of Audi, has long made it known that it will be expanding its lineup in the coming years. The main focus though would be on releasing new SUVs with the RS Q5 leading the way and revealed to be already in the pipeline.

Those who are familiar with this luxurious crossover know that the first generation was never given the entire RS treatment. The company disclosed that the latest model will likely be different with the RS Q5 expected to be released sometime in 2018. The problem however is that some customers, even loyal ones, may not be willing to wait that long. This is where ABT enters the picture.

Utilizing the latest version of the Audi SQ5, ABT Sportsline gave this crossover a wider and aggressive body.

The tuner made some modifications on the looks of the SQ5 by putting in a new bumper to the front, one that showcases a more pronounced spoiler lip and larger vents. Front fenders meanwhile now have some pieces of carbon fiber trim. In order to give the grille a more intimidating expression, ABT blacked them out.

Side skirts have been made more muscular. The alloy 20-inch wheel set can easily be seen as well as the fact that the ride height has been somewhat lowered.

The biggest change however would have to be in the rear section. With the typical Audi SQ5, one of the controversial features was the fake exhaust tips. Under ABT’s RS Q5 however, this has been made more functional and is composed of four round and nice tips flanking a diffuser. Completing the modifications on this model is the sporty spoiler that has been mounted on the roof. This spoiler has the effect of giving non-car people the impression that they are looking at an Audi RS Q5.

It is not just about appearance as ABT also gave this version more power, especially when compared to the standard model. Powering the standard version is the 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine capable of 354 hp with peak torque at 369 lb.-ft. (500 Nm). For the ABT’s variant, this same engine has been modified in order to provide 425 hp with a maximum torque at 405 lb.-ft. (550 Nm). Car enthusiasts will likely feel a sense of déjà vu and it is not surprising, given that ABT had recently modified the Audi S5 Cabriolet using this same engine.

The Q5 series is Audi's line of compact luxury crossover SUVs with the first generation released back in 2008 and the second generation making its official debut in 2016. Originally unveiled as the Cross Cabriolet quattro concept during the Los Angeles Auto Show in 2007, it had the TDI 3.0-liter engine that could offer 237 hp (177 kW) and top torque of 369 lb.-ft. (500 Nm).

Source: ABT Sportsline