Giving the Audi SQ5 some stiff competition.
At the 2012 24 Hours of Le Mans, Audi introduced its new SQ5 TDI to celebrate its dominance at the endurance race with their diesel-powered racecars. The SQ5 TDI was the first diesel-powered model to bear the “S” designation from the German automaker, but it also came with a hefty €58,500 price tag. The team at ABT Sportsline has developed a new tuning program for the Audi Q5 diesel variants that comes in well under the price point of the Audi SQ5 TDI, but still rivals its power output.
The new ABT QS5 features an array of exterior upgrades that highlight the crossover SUV’s classy and confident character. A new front grille with less vertical bars, add-on spoiler, and fender extensions create a more dynamic and athletic appearance, while a set of side skirts with door strip attachments help to optimize airflow around the wheels. Downforce is generated by a new trunk-mounted spoiler and the ABT exhaust system with two, dual outlets seamlessly fit into the upgraded rear skirt.
ABT Sportsline also developed new products for the chassis of the crossover SUV to build upon the already dynamic factory ride. A new set of front and rear suspension springs helps to lower the overall center of gravity by 30 mm for better overall handling properties. Customers also have the option of installing either CR or DR lightweight alloy wheels in 9.0 x 20, 9.0 x 21, and 10 x 22 sizes with corresponding sport tires for greater traction.
Arguably the most exciting aspect of the new ABT QS5 models is the tuning upgrades for the 3.0-liter V-6 and 2.0-liter inline-four turbodiesel engines. The smaller, more efficient 2.0 TDI variant with 177 horsepower and 280 lb-ft. of torque gets a healthy boost from the ABT Power program up to 205 horsepower and 310 lb-ft. of torque. But, it’s the more powerful, 3.0-liter TDI engine that is packed with all the fun. The factory 245 horsepower and 428 lb-ft. of torque gets pushed up to a muscular 282 horsepower and 465 lb-ft. of torque – just 31 horsepower and 14 lb-ft. shy of the more expensive Audi SQ5 TDI.
The new ABT QS5 is currently available from the German aftermarket company. ABT Sportsline offers all of their products for the Audi Q5 and both of its diesel-engined variants as complete upgrade programs or with separate accessories. Pricing has not been released.
ABT QS5 Specifications
[toggle title=”2.0 TDI”]Engine: 2.0 TDI; 1,968 cc
Performance Tuning: ABT Power
Performance: 205 horsepower/ 310 lb-ft. of torque (420 Nm)
Exhaust: ABT quad exhaust with two, dual end pipes[/toggle]
[toggle style=”closed” title=”3.0 TDI”]Engine: 3.0 TDI; 2,967 cc
Performance Tuning: ABT Power
Performance: 282 horsepower/ 465 lb-ft. of torque (630 Nm)
Exhaust: ABT quad exhaust with two, dual end pipes[/toggle]
[toggle style=”closed” title=”Wheels & Suspension”]
Wheels: ABT CR Sport Wheels or DR Sport Wheels lightweight alloy
Wheel Sizes: 9×20, 9×21 and 10×22
Suspension: Sport springs; 30 mm lower[/toggle]
Exterior:
-ABT front grille
-ABT front spoiler
-ABT fender extensions
-ABT door strip attachments
-ABT rear skirt set ABT rear wing
Source: ABT Sportsline
Would you pick the ABT QS5 over the high-priced Audi SQ5 TDI? Leave a comment and let us know!
