German tuning house ABT Sportsline transforms the already potent Audi S5 Sportback into something extraordinary. The 2018 iteration pushes boundaries further than ever, delivering supercar-level performance in a practical four-door package. Each modification serves a purpose, creating a vehicle that excels in both daily driving and weekend track sessions.
The ABT S5 represents more than just an upgraded Audi — it’s a masterclass in precision engineering. From power delivery to chassis dynamics, every aspect receives careful attention. The result? A machine that maintains Audi’s legendary refinement while pushing performance to new heights.
Heart of the Beast: Power Unleashed
The centerpiece of this transformation lies beneath the hood. ABT’s wizardry takes the standard 3.0-liter TFSI V6 from capable to extraordinary. The numbers tell an impressive story: 426 horsepower and 550 Nm of torque, up from the factory’s 354 hp and 500 Nm. Yet raw numbers only hint at the full picture.
Fact!
ABT's engine modification program for the S5 underwent over 1,000 hours of testing and development before release, ensuring reliability matches the performance gains.
«Working with the S5’s powertrain is like fine-tuning a symphony orchestra,» explains Marcus Weber, veteran performance specialist. «The V6 has tremendous potential, and ABT’s modifications unlock it while maintaining factory-level reliability.»
Every throttle response feels immediate, every gear change purposeful. The engine’s power band stretches wider than the stock unit, delivering consistent thrust from 1,370 to 4,500 rpm. This broad torque curve transforms the driving experience, making power readily available in any situation.
Performance That Commands Respect
Raw acceleration figures impress: 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds, with some independent tests showing even quicker times. But straight-line speed tells only part of the story. The chassis developments showcase ABT’s holistic approach to performance enhancement.
«I’ve driven many modified luxury cars, but the ABT S5 stands apart,» notes James Mitchell, professional driver. «The balance between comfort and performance is extraordinary — it’s equally at home on mountain roads and city streets.»
The quattro all-wheel-drive system, working in concert with the 8-speed Tiptronic transmission, delivers power with remarkable poise. KW V3 Coilover suspension provides precise control while maintaining ride quality. The system allows for individual adjustment of compression and rebound, enabling owners to fine-tune their driving experience.
Key performance upgrades include:
- optimized transmission mapping for faster gear changes;
- enhanced brake cooling for sustained performance;
- recalibrated quattro system for improved power distribution;
- refined suspension geometry for better turn-in response.
Design Evolution: Form Meets Function
ABT’s exterior modifications serve dual purposes: enhanced aerodynamics and visual distinction. The front splitter reduces lift while channeling air to critical cooling systems. Side skirts help manage airflow along the vehicle’s flanks, working in harmony with the rear diffuser to optimize high-speed stability.
Important!
Every aerodynamic component undergoes wind tunnel testing at speeds up to 250 km/h, ensuring performance benefits match aesthetic improvements.
HRE RS208M wheels in Stone Champagne finish, sized at 20 inches, reduce unsprung weight while providing increased mechanical grip. Wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires (275/30/20), they deliver exceptional feedback and control in all conditions.
Black accents throughout the exterior create a cohesive design language, from the darkened grille to the quad exhaust tips. These elements don’t just look purposeful — they enhance the car’s presence without compromising its sophisticated character.
The Complete Package
Few vehicles balance everyday usability with exceptional performance as effectively as the ABT S5 Sportback. The interior retains all modern conveniences — Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and advanced driver assistance systems — while the exterior and mechanical upgrades transform the driving experience.
The value proposition becomes clear when considering the complete package. Factory-level fit and finish, comprehensive warranty coverage, and the ability to return to stock specification provide peace of mind. This isn’t just a modified Audi — it’s a thoroughly engineered performance vehicle.
The Final Verdict
The ABT S5 Sportback transcends typical aftermarket modifications, delivering a cohesive package that enhances rather than transforms the original vehicle’s character. It represents a thoughtful evolution of the platform, maintaining Audi’s renowned quality while pushing performance boundaries.
For those seeking more than just straight-line speed, the ABT S5 offers a compelling blend of attributes that few competitors can match. It’s a testament to what’s possible when engineering expertise meets performance ambition.
Pros & Cons
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Exceptional power delivery with broad torque curve | Premium price point over standard S5 |
| Maintained factory reliability and warranty coverage | Firm ride even in comfort settings |
| Comprehensive chassis and suspension improvements | Increased fuel consumption under spirited driving |
| Professional calibration and testing of all components | Limited production numbers affect availability |
| Outstanding build quality and attention to detail | Some original Audi warranties may be affected |
| Practical four-door configuration with performance capability | Higher maintenance costs than standard model |
| Distinctive appearance without being overly aggressive | Requires premium fuel for optimal performance |
The ABT S5 Sportback stands as a masterclass in performance enhancement, proving that aftermarket modification can elevate rather than compromise a vehicle’s character. While the investment required is substantial, the resulting machine delivers a driving experience that justifies its premium positioning.