ABT Sportsline has turned up the heat on Audi’s new plug-in hybrid RS5 with the RS5-R, a limited-run package available for both the Avant and saloon. Production is capped at 130 cars worldwide, marking 130 years since Johann Baptist Abt took over a blacksmith’s and coachworks in Kempten in 1896.
The main change is under the bonnet. ABT has increased the combined output from 639 hp to 720 hp and torque from 825 Nm / 608 lb ft to 905 Nm / 667 lb ft, with the entire gain coming from the 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6. The electric motor remains untouched.
Visually, the RS5-R gets a more aggressive body kit featuring a front spoiler, side skirts, diffuser, wheel-arch louvres and mirror caps. Buyers can choose gloss exposed carbon or ABT’s new matt Carbon Camouflage finish, while the Avant also gets a roof spoiler. Suspension upgrades and 22-inch forged wheels complete the package.
Prices start at €62,000 / $69,013 for the saloon and €65,000 / $72,352 for the Avant, including German VAT. Carbon Camouflage adds €3,000 / $3340, and ABT can also upgrade an existing Audi RS5.
