The “S” in SUV stands for “sporty”, but that doesn’t really hold true in most cases, does it now… There are exceptions, of course, with Audi’s spirited 306HP (310PS) RS Q3 being one of them. Still, that wasn’t enough for German firm ABT, which is taking the series to the next performance level with a 404hp (410PS) tune.
Along with a 32 percent boost in output, the 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-five’s peak torque is also up by 110Nm, from 420Nm (310 lb-ft) to 530Nm (391 lb-ft). No acceleration and top speed numbers have been released yet, but the stock model does go from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) in 5.5 seconds topping out at a restricted 250 km/h (155mph).
A height adjustable suspension kit and new 21-inch wheels wrapped around in 255/30 R21 take care of the contact with the asphalt, while the complete package proposed by ABT includes an aero kit with front bumper and grille assembly, side skirts, rear apron with a diffuser and quad pipes, plus a set of decals.
A world premiere is scheduled for the Geneva Motor Show in March.
By John Halas
PHOTO GALLERY
