Usually, when we’re referring to performance models, diesel-powered ones don’t enter the conversation. Yet, they do exist, even in small numbers.

Audi is a prime example of that. When the European version of the S5 reached its midlife refresh point, it switched from a 3.0-liter twin-turbo gasoline V6 to a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6. Rated at 347 PS (342 HP / 255 kW) at 3,850 rpm and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque between 2,500 and 3,100 rpm, the engine is assisted by an electric-powered compressor for quicker acceleration and a mild hybrid system that improves efficiency.

Performance remains worthy of an S-badged Audi, with the S5 Sportback going from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.9 seconds and reaching an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

Also Watch: Audi A1 Sportback Unleashes Its Inner Beast With ABT’s 394 HP “1 of 1” Build

Motivated by emissions regulations, the move might not sit very well with some potential European customers, especially since North America’s 2020 Audi S5 is likely to keep the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 making 349 HP (354 PS).

Those who don’t mind having a diesel under the hood, though, might be interested in the upgrades offered by ABT Sportsline for the Euro-spec 2020 S5 Sportback. The highlight of the tuning package is the ABT Power performance upgrade, which uses the ABT Engine Control (AEC) to increase the 3.0-liter TDI’s output to 384 PS (379 HP) and peak torque to 760 Nm (560 lb-ft).

While not mind-blowing, this upgrade should result in improved performance, although ABT Sportsline does not share performance specs. In addition to the uprated powertrain, the tuner offers a suspension upgrade consisting of ABT height adjustable-suspension springs that consists of adjustable lowering from 15 to 40 mm (0.6 – 1.6 inches) and ABT anti-roll bars. Finally, the aftermarket specialist offers new wheels as well, namely 20-inch ABT Sport GR alloys with a glossy black finish and diamond-machined rim flange.

These upgrades are available both for the pre-facelift S5 Sportback as well, which for a short period of time before the launch of the 2020 model was available with the 347 PS (342 HP) 3.0-liter TDI V6.

Note: Pre-facelift Audi S5 Sportback TDI pictured

ABT Gives Europe’s 2020 Audi S5 Sportback A Diesel Boost To 379 HP
ABT Gives Europe’s 2020 Audi S5 Sportback A Diesel Boost To 379 HP
ABT Gives Europe’s 2020 Audi S5 Sportback A Diesel Boost To 379 HP
ABT Gives Europe’s 2020 Audi S5 Sportback A Diesel Boost To 379 HP
ABT Gives Europe’s 2020 Audi S5 Sportback A Diesel Boost To 379 HP
ABT Gives Europe’s 2020 Audi S5 Sportback A Diesel Boost To 379 HP
ABT Gives Europe’s 2020 Audi S5 Sportback A Diesel Boost To 379 HP
ABT Gives Europe’s 2020 Audi S5 Sportback A Diesel Boost To 379 HP
ABT Gives Europe’s 2020 Audi S5 Sportback A Diesel Boost To 379 HP
ABT Gives Europe’s 2020 Audi S5 Sportback A Diesel Boost To 379 HP
ABT Gives Europe’s 2020 Audi S5 Sportback A Diesel Boost To 379 HP
ABT Gives Europe’s 2020 Audi S5 Sportback A Diesel Boost To 379 HP
ABT Gives Europe’s 2020 Audi S5 Sportback A Diesel Boost To 379 HP
ABT Gives Europe’s 2020 Audi S5 Sportback A Diesel Boost To 379 HP
ABT Gives Europe’s 2020 Audi S5 Sportback A Diesel Boost To 379 HP
ABT Gives Europe’s 2020 Audi S5 Sportback A Diesel Boost To 379 HP
ABT Gives Europe’s 2020 Audi S5 Sportback A Diesel Boost To 379 HP
ABT Gives Europe’s 2020 Audi S5 Sportback A Diesel Boost To 379 HP
ABT Gives Europe’s 2020 Audi S5 Sportback A Diesel Boost To 379 HP
ABT Gives Europe’s 2020 Audi S5 Sportback A Diesel Boost To 379 HP
ABT Gives Europe’s 2020 Audi S5 Sportback A Diesel Boost To 379 HP
ABT Gives Europe’s 2020 Audi S5 Sportback A Diesel Boost To 379 HP