Casting aside ideological preferences for a sec, there's no doubting the Audi SQ7 as a technical achievement. The way its mild-hybrid system eliminates the lag and torpidity of diesel at low revs is remarkable, with enormous performance genuinely there from tickover. Remember that 664lb ft torque peak is from 1,000-3,250rpm...
But some people are never happy, and that's where Abt can step in, with its new performance upgrade for the SQ7. According to Hans-Jurgen Abt there's "plenty in reserve" as far as the V8 diesel is concerned, the new kit said to offer "impressive power and excellent drivability". He's not lying, either, the SQ7 now boosted via nothing more than an Abt Engine Control Unit from 435hp to 510 - in a diesel! Torque has climbed even further, the maximum now a humongous 715lb ft. There's no news on where those peaks are produced, but knowing Abt's ability to retain OEM characteristics it would be a surprise to find much changed.
In addition, Abt customers can opt for a Sound Control upgrade, to create a "charismatic individual vehicle sound." And if that's not enough for SQ7 presence, Abt is building a widebody kit - the perfect accompaniment to the 22-inch wheels seen here. Interested parties might like to know that all of this will be available for the SQ8 as well...
Alright, tasteless add-ons aside, there's something pretty incredible about more than 500hp from a diesel, with the potential seemingly there for an even greater output in future. The kit is available now, with a price to be confirmed soon - but it might be useful to know there are used examples available for less than £50k...
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