Power comes from the proven 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 of the Audi RS Q8. With the ABT Power R performance upgrade, ABT increases output to around 1,000 hp. This leap in performance is achieved through the installation of an ABT turbocharger and an ABT intercooler, as well as a comprehensive engine conversion including water/ethanol injection (IWI system). The indirect water/ethanol injection provides intensive internal cooling of the engine, allowing more charge air and therefore more oxygen for combustion. The result is consistently high, reliably available power even under maximum load. The IWI system and the full performance it unlocks are activated conveniently via the myABT App, which is also integrated into Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Therefore it can be operated directly through the vehicle’s infotainment system. Combined with the increase in top speed to up to 320 km/h and ABT Body Control, comprising ABT Level Control and ABT eAWS, the enhanced performance potential can be fully exploited on the road as well. ABT eAWS is an adaptive roll stabilisation system that continuously adjusts between comfortable and sporty settings via actuator motors on both axles, with noticeably reduced body roll in corners and a composed, near-sportscar feel in an SUV of this class.
Visually, the RSQ8-LE 1000 makes a clear statement. A comprehensive aerodynamics package in matte exposed carbon includes the front lip with RSQ8-LE logo, front bumper attachments with air intake grilles and optimised airflow, and bonnet inserts. The wheel arch vents in gloss black carry the exclusive “RSQ8-LE 1000” emblem plaque.
On the sides, mirror caps, a B-pillar trim with RSQ8-LE logo, door sill trims and striking fender extensions create an expressive wide-body look. At the rear, a rear bumper insert with RSQ8-LE emblem plaque, rear bumper attachments and the rear wing including Aeroblades complete the appearance. A stainless-steel ABT exhaust system with the signature 4-pipe tailpipe trims, 105 millimetres in diameter, gives the V8 a distinctive sound.
A central design element is the new ABT HIGH PERFORMANCE IR23 forged wheel in 23-inch satin gold, fitted with 295/35 ZR23 tyres. The gold-coloured wheels create a deliberate contrast with the matte carbon body kit, picking up on the colour concept of the anniversary trilogy that already defined the special character of the RS6-LE 800.
The anniversary theme continues consistently in the details. The RSQ8-LE 1000 logo appears in neodym, as do the ABT logos at various points on the vehicle. Even the decorative inlays in the carbon front lip and rear bumper are finished in this exclusive colour, anchoring the anniversary character of the special model visibly in its exterior appearance.
Inside, the exclusive concept continues across three levels. The ABT steering wheel in Alcantara with shift paddles and gear knob cap in matte exposed carbon forms the central point of contact between driver and car, complemented by dashboard and seat frame trims in the same finish. The front seats feature the ABT logo on the headrests and the RSQ8-LE logo on the shoulder area, while the door sill trims carry the “RSQ8-LE 1000” lettering and lights integrated into the doors project the anniversary logo onto the floor. The ABT centre console with an inset ABT 130th Anniversary Coin and the individual engraving of the respective vehicle number forms the conclusion: each of the 30 units is a documented one-off that anchors the connection to 130 years of company history within the car. The start-stop button cap and boot mat carry the ABT logo; the floor mats carry the RSQ8-LE logo.
“With the RSQ8-LE 1000, we are picking up exactly where we left off with the RS6-LE 800,” says Hans-Jürgen Abt. “The trilogy is complete, and all three models stand for what ABT has represented for 130 years: passion, craftsmanship, and the courage to keep setting new standards.”
Hans-Jürgen Abt
The package price for the ABT RSQ8-LE 1000 is €165,000 including 19 percent VAT. Installation costs amount to €20,000 including 19 percent VAT, plus TÜV approval and transfer.