Q8

Make
Audi
Segment
SUV

Audi first got into the sport-ute market when it launched the Q7 back in 2005. In the years since, its crossover lineup has been fleshed out considerably – ranging all the way up to the new Q8. And Abt Sportsline has been there every step of the way with performance upgrades for each. This, however, is one of its most impressive tuning jobs to date.

It's based on the SQ8 TDI – a high-powered diesel variant we sadly don't get in the United States. Which is a shame, considering the 429 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque produced by its 4.0-liter twin-turbo diesel V8.

Abt being Abt, though, it's taken the high-output oil-burner even further, to the point that it's now producing 510 hp and 715 lb-ft – more power and much, much more torque than the mild-hybrid gasoline SQ8 we are expected to get in the US with 450 hp and 443 lb-ft.

With that much muscle on tap, Abt says it'll run to 62 mph in 4.6 seconds – two tenths off the standard diesel model's acceleration time. And along with the increased output, the venerable Audi tuner has added an array of other upgrades as well.

The suspension can be lowered in three levels by up to 65 mm – that's over 2.5 inches closer to the tarmac. It rides on a choice of alloy options ranging up to 23 inches. And the appearance (and aerodynamic efficiency) is further augmented by a full body kit, complete with front splitter, rear diffuser, and a spoiler for the roof's trailing edge.

Sadly we can't get our hands on this one in America, but if Abt's track record has shown us anything, it'll be armed and ready when Audi reveals the gasoline-powered SQ8 – and the even more potent RS Q8 – that we will get on this side of the Atlantic.