ABT is back with its RS6-S and RSQ8-S, taking them to a new level of performance

ABT’s tuning packages are the kind you look forward to because you know they will always surprise you with something, and once again they have done it, this time retracing their steps to return with the RS6 and RS Q8, two models that, as you may recall, were previously pushed to the extreme thanks to the RS6 Johann ABT Signature Edition they unveiled in June and, a couple of months later, the RSQ8-R.

Now ABT has wanted to take these two models a step further with a different aesthetic and aerodynamic kit and, naturally, with various revisions to their mechanicals taking advantage of the fact that both models share the same engine block. The result can be seen in the images accompanying this article, and without a doubt it will leave no one indifferent, at least when it comes to conveying their vision of performance and aggressiveness on these two models.

The aerodynamic kit, made of carbon fibre as one would expect, has, if we look closely, many features in common, but so that the overall look would not be practically identical, the two models are differentiated by details. The kit includes a front spoiler for both, which bears the model name engraved in red, side skirts that on the RSQ8-S are fins at each end and on the RS6-S are complete and more elaborate, while at the rear both models use a redesigned diffuser that includes two double exhaust outlets of 102 mm in diameter; in this area, a common feature will be the split rear spoiler. The final touch is provided by the enormous 22-inch wheels of in-house manufacture.

Inside the RS6-S and RSQ8-S there are also modifications, with the installation of new leather and Alcantara upholstery featuring the model name and the ABT logo embroidered on the backrest, a sporty look that is accompanied by carbon fibre inserts. Furthermore, as an optional extra, we can extend the use of this material to the seat structures of both models and, for the RS6-S, also to the carbon fibre gearshift paddles.

Mechanically, both models use the same 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 that delivers up to 600 CV, but thanks to the ABT Engine Control unit, power is increased to 700 CV together with a torque of 880 Nm. It is worth noting that, optionally, ABT will allow power to be raised even further, to 740 CV and a torque of 920 Nm, figures similar to those of the RSQ8-R. All this power can be exploited far better thanks to the new suspension, which lowers the ride height by 25 mm at the front axle and 30 mm at the rear axle of the RS6-S, while the RSQ8-S makes use of its air suspension linked to ABT Level Confort to lower its height by 25 mm in Comfort mode and a further 15 mm in Dynamic mode.

This entire kit, not counting the optional extras, is already available to ABT customers at a price starting from 42,900 euros, to which the labour cost of fitting all the components must be added.