Abt launches new 760hp RSQ8-S
Nurburgring record-breaking Audi Sport SUV not potent enough? You know who to call...
It says a lot about how the whole super SUV market has evolved that the Audi RSQ8 honestly now seems like one of the more discreet options out there. A 2.3-tonne, 600hp feast of excess at launch in 2019, it’s been made to look rather more modest by 700hp Aston Martins, 800hp Lamborghinis, the Ferrari Purosangue and ever-evolving awfulness of the BMW XM. In 2026, with a Nurburgring lap record to its name and only the mildest hybrid helping hand, an RSQ8 is almost the purist’s uber SUV choice…
But for those who simply must have additional visual clout to go with the V8 wallop under the bonnet, Abt has announced a new upgrade package for the current 640hp Q8 flagship. The RSQ8-S gets an abundance of carbon fibre features, from wheelarch vents to rear wing (and not forgetting the front spoiler). Naturally, that carbon treatment extends inside, which features the black stuff for the shifter, dash and transmission tunnel.
As you might expect, the Q8’s Abt status is advertised on the seats, sills and even the floor mats. According to the tuner, the cabin is a ‘a well-rounded overall package for drivers who want to give their RS Q8 a more personalised and sportily accentuated touch without fundamentally changing the character of the vehicle.’ Which sounds about right.
There’s rather more than a sportily accentuated touch under the bonnet, as the RSQ8-S is now 760hp strong. That’s the quoted power if building on the 640hp offered by the performance Q8, the only one offered in the UK. That significant gain of 120hp (alongside an eye-opening 723lb ft, up from 590) is achieved through the Abt Power R upgrade, which adds beefier intercoolers to an ECU boost. Four enormous tailpipes feature, of course.
Being an RSQ8-S rather than an R, this Audi is actually one of the subtler new cars launched by Abt of late. Really. So while new 23-inch wheels on 295-section tyres might sound crazy, that’s the same size as offered from the factory. They’re just a bit fancier here, and flow-formed to save a bit of unsprung weight. Which sounds a bit daft on such a heavy SUV, but lighter wheels really helped the ride on the RS6 performance, so there should be a similar benefit here.
Also, unlike the ‘R’ or ‘LE’ branded editions, this RSQ8-S is not a limited-run offering from Abt. Anyone and everyone with an RSQ8 can have this work done, assuming they’re willing to pay the €53,000 (plus €6,380 fitting) for the privilege. Call it a little more than £50,000 to have your RSQ8 made into an Abt RSQ8-S. Almost a third of the cost of a brand-new one (from £142,000), so clearly not a small upgrade to indulge in, but it surely guarantees performance and impact akin to an Urus for less money. So there’s that to consider. And there are cars from last year with tens of thousands off already…
Would I have one myself? God no. Do I get why some people would? Absolutely.
Would I have one myself? God no. Do I get why some people would? Absolutely.
But fair enough, more seriously. Lots of reasons to like a car other than image, and image is subjective anyway. I appreciate that this thing isn't that brash compared to some other options!
But fair enough, more seriously. Lots of reasons to like a car other than image, and image is subjective anyway. I appreciate that this thing isn't that brash compared to some other options!
I contain multitudes. As does everyone else. And these multitudes should be celebrated and encouraged not stiffled and constrained. Peace and love, gbn xGassing Station | General Gassing | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff